Love, life and Luna We’ve all seen the YouTube videos – someone is delivered a surprise puppy as a gift and the connection, affection and adoration (from both sides) can be immediate and very emotional. The benefits of caring for an animal and receiving in return unconditional love, comfort and companionship cannot be underestimated. So, when Luna Peggy Fowler made her appearance at St Margaret’s early in 2021 as a young eight-week-old pup, it was love at first sight for over 1000 students!
‘It’s been shown that the presence of a dog in an educational setting can support concentration, attention, motivation, and relaxation.
Luna is a toy cavoodle, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles spaniel and a toy poodle. And while she is officially the school dog, she plays a very important role in the boarding house and has captured the hearts of all its residents.
‘This can help reduce some of the inevitable stress of everyday life, which can impact effective learning and performance,’ Ms Fowler said.
Head of Boarding Lesa Fowler says that while the benefits of having a school dog is evident for all to see, it is backed by research.
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Ms Fowler added that when the boarders help care for Luna, it teaches them responsibility in a way that is different from classroom learning. Year 8 boarder Phoebe Webb from Longreach explains that whenever Luna comes to the boarding house, she goes to one year level at time.
