September 29, 2023 6:04 pm

Local News

Therapy Dogs Are Helping New Hampshire Students Improve Academic Performance

Credit: iStock

Staff Writer

With the approval of the use of certified therapy animals, some school districts in New Hampshire are bringing therapy dogs to help students navigate daily lives at schools. Since the implementation of the new policy, school teachers have seen a promising improvement in academic performance, such as improved reading skills.     

By creating a school environment that is more welcoming for children, certified therapy dogs help reduce stress and anxiety, which is why they are effective in helping children improve their performance at school. Research has shown that with the help of therapy dogs, children not only gain more confidence but also have more motivation to learn and perform better at school. Moreover, they can help children develop critical skills such as empathy and appropriate interpersonal skills.