THE DOGS of Queen Margaret College

A Wellbeing Boost For All

When we think of therapy animals, we often imagine fluffy cats or dogs lounging on laps, being stroked and petted by their adoring owners. But the power of animals goes beyond just their physical presence. Dogs, in particular, have a unique ability to uplift our moods, calm our anxieties, and improve our overall wellbeing. Here at Queen Margaret College, the dogs have become an integral part of our school community.

Toast, Holly, Mr Mosley, Remme, Ruby, Wicket and Wilson may just be four-legged furry friends to some, but to the students, staff, and parents of QMC, they are much more than that. These dogs provide a sense of comfort, joy, and connection that cannot be found anywhere else.

Toast, a 7-year-old golden retriever, is owned by Lynne Speight, the President of the Old Girls' Association. She is a regular visitor to the school, spreading her infectious warmth and love to all those she meets. Holly, a one-eyed canine companion of school nurse Jonet, provides comfort to students Wednesday to Friday. Mr Mosley, a Goldendoodle, belongs to Judith and is onsite Mondays and Tuesdays. Remme, a loyal and friendly dog, can be found up in the Communications Office at the top of Craven, belonging to our Alumnae Director, Jane Ball. Ruby, the cuddly companion of Science teacher Rebecca Hickey is often found hanging out with the Year 13s in Hobson. Then there is Wicket, the incredibly loved sidekick for Deputy Principal Wellbeing, Fiona Crawford and, lastly, Wilson, the beloved dog of the School Psychologist Eleanor Krol, who provides emotional support to students in need as well as being used for a therapy dog for students with dog phobias.

The presence of these dogs has been shown to have a significant impact on the wellbeing of students and staff at QMC. Research shows that interacting with dogs can help reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure and decrease anxiety and depression. In fact, simply petting a dog can increase the levels of the 'feel-good' hormone oxytocin in the brain, leading to a greater sense of happiness and contentment.

For students who may be feeling isolated or homesick, the dogs provide a sense of comfort and connection to home. For those struggling with anxiety or stress, a few minutes with a furry friend can help calm their nerves and ease their worries. And for the staff, the dogs provide a much-needed break from the demands of the job, allowing them to relax and recharge before returning to their work.

But the benefits of the dogs of QMC go beyond just the emotional and psychological. They also provide an opportunity for social interaction, fostering a sense of community and connection between students and staff. The dogs are a conversation starter, a shared experience that brings people together and helps break down barriers.

Of course, having dogs on campus does come with its challenges. It requires a level of responsibility and care that must be taken seriously. The dogs of QMC are well-trained, socialised, and up-to-date on their vaccinations, alongside being supervised at all times to ensure the safety of everyone on campus.

For the QMC community, the benefits of these furry companions on campus far outweigh any potential risks or challenges. The dogs bring a sense of joy, comfort, and connection that cannot be found anywhere else, and they remind us of the important role that animals can play in our lives.

In a world that can often be stressful, overwhelming, and disconnected, the dogs of QMC provide a much-needed dose of love, comfort, and happiness. Reminding us that sometimes, the simplest things in life can have the greatest impact on our wellbeing.

Queen Margaret College studentled initiative “Give FIVE for the Floods” raises more than $7000 for victims of Cyclone Gabrielle.

At Queen Margaret College, our values of Generosity, Resilience, Respect, Integrity, and Courage guide us to give back to our community. In times of difficulty, we come together to support those who have been