Facility Dogs
Facility dogs work alongside a trained staff handler to support the people in their setting. In schools, that might mean helping a student settle before a hard day, easing transitions, or making it easier to join in. Each facility dog is selected and trained around the environment it will work in and the people it will support.
Where Facility Dogs Work
- Schools, supporting students who benefit from a calm, steady presence through the day
- Counselling and therapy settings, helping clients feel at ease during sessions
- Courthouses and child advocacy centres, providing comfort during interviews and difficult moments
- Care settings, offering connection and routine for residents and clients
How a Facility Dog Can Help
- Provide a calm, settled presence during stressful moments
- Offer deep pressure or gentle contact on cue
- Encourage participation, conversation and connection
- Support routines and transitions
- Perform tasks specific to the setting and the people in it
How It Works
- Consultation. We learn about your organization, your goals and the staff member who will handle the dog.
- Matching. We select and train a dog whose temperament and working style suit your environment.
- On-site team training. Where possible, our trainers come to your facility to train your staff handler in the setting where the dog will work.
- Ongoing support. After placement, we support your team through a bonding period and regular check-ins.
Is a Facility Dog Right for Your Organization?
A facility dog works best when a dedicated staff member is ready to be its handler, and when the organization is committed to the dog’s well-being day to day. It is most effective in settings where students, clients or patients face stress, anxiety or difficult moments on a regular basis, and where a calm, consistent presence can make a meaningful difference.
Contact our team to talk through your organization’s goals.
Watch Henry, the facility dog at The Journey Club, in action.
Henry in the News
