Stanley, a Canine Assisted Therapy Dog in training, joined Treloar's Counselling Team in September 2023, and since then, he has been introduced to students in various situations.
A number of students have worked with Stanley during their work experience. They assisted in various ways with his training and socialisation. Consequently, Stanley has learned to respond to different forms of communication:
- he can now follow instructions given either verbally or via students' augmentative and alternative communication devices (AACs);
- he has become familiar and confident with various pieces of equipment and walking beside wheelchairs;
- he is now familiar with different sounds and ways students express themselves
- he remains calm when unexpected noises occur;
- he has become confident and relaxed with different ways students interact with him.
Stanley's support has brought numerous benefits to the students and has become a friendly and familiar face around campus. He has empowered students, improving their confidence and providing opportunities to develop their self-esteem and social skills. Through the promotion of positive social behaviours, Stanley has established strong relationships with students and has occasionally surprised them with his attentive and responsive nature, which has led to numerous 'wow moments' and joyful interactions.
Recently, Treloar College student used his AAC device during his work experience to communicate commands to Stanley, such as 'sit', 'lie down', and 'come'. He engaged with Stanley by offering his hand for sniffing and gently stroking him on the head to get him used to touch. Additionally, the student encouraged Stanley to interact by making him touch his hand.
The student has helped Stanley acclimatise to different sounds, including sudden loud laughter in short bursts. This process has allowed Stanley to maintain a state of relaxation. Stanley in return appears to have had a calming effect on the student and has helped him focus externally; he has encouraged laughter and smiles, as well as increased engagement through looking and touching.
Stanley has gained so much from his training with students and, he loves being part of Treloar's!
Stanley's journey
You can find out more about Stanley's journey from Judith Horwell, Specialist Counsellor at Treloar's but also Stanley's owner and trainer: Stanley: new member of Treloar's Counselling Team | Treloars