News

Students at Tenison Woods College were delighted to receive a surprise visit from six very special therapy and assistance dogs to end Term 3; an initiative envisaged by the Senior School Representative Council in recognizing the importance of canines in the well-being of humans. 

School Captain Evangelia Wichmann has a great amount of respect for dogs and the difference they make to an individual’s general sense of joy and comfort. Thus, when the idea of having a ‘senior school dog’ wasn’t possible, she dreamt up the next best thing – a visit from some of the best dogs in the business. Fortunately, although without some trepidation, the request won the approval of Director of Well-being Jennie Sanderson.

The Blue Lake Obedience Dog Club, under the direction of Lea Clark (who oversees the Pet Therapy Program) was more than happy to oblige, offering the talents of six beautiful pooches. Ian and Airi (Pet Therapy dog) were led to the Poplars unit where the children welcomed the dog into their private playground. Airi chased a red ball she casually picked up and was cheered along when she retrieved the ball every single time it was thrown for her.  Year 10 student Cale Norman lay beside Airi and stroked her gently, saying it was the ‘best experience ever’ and that he had made a ‘friend for life’. Jan and Basil (part-time Therapy dog) and Helen and Ace were mobbed by the senior school students, who encouraged the boys to share their common room; however, it did take a while for them to get there as they were very popular with the year 10 students on the way through the sails area.

Meanwhile, Karen (with Bella) and Jill (with Jet) ventured out towards the middle school and junior school areas but were both too overwhelmed with the sheer number of students participating in other RUOK Day activities. Hence, Bella and Jet raced out to the oval instead where they participated in ball games and tug-of-war. Bella proved to be very busy with the brightly coloured cones and children screeched with amusement when she barked loudly in exhilaration. Her tricks were a real hit amongst the celebratory atmosphere. On the other hand, big, bold and gentle Marley (Story dog) visited the Early Learning Centre where he was greeted with much enthusiasm by an animated crowd of 3 to 5 year olds. Although Marley is no stranger to these surroundings as he listens patiently to children at Melaleuca Primary School as they read to him and tell him stories. Apparently, Marley was pretty excited when he spotted the Play Dough (he had eaten the yummy stuff at the primary school).

The dogs and their handlers joined me for a cuppa and a special RUOK Day cupcake at the end of lunch at the school’s own Sugar Loaf Café.  The college community was immeasurably appreciative of the time commitment and enthusiasm of the BLODC representatives. 

We offer them and their beautiful dogs a hearty and warm thanks for helping us to make RUOK Day truly special. For undeniably, dogs make a difference to our mood, our sense of worth and our mental and physical well-being overall. Of course, the students want to make this an annual event!!!

Marilena Wilson | Wellbeing Co-Coordinator Years 11 & 12

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