Introducing our new school pets

Tiggy

Tiggy will be in school two mornings a week on Tuesday and Wednesday.

There are many benefits to having a school dog, including:

A calming effect on pupils, particularly those with behavioural or learning difficulties
Improved behaviour and concentration, reduced stress and improved self-esteem
Encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children
fostering a sense of responsibility
Motivating pupils to think and to learn, as most children have a high level of natural interest in, enthusiasm for and enjoyment of animals
Encouraging respect and thereby improving pupils’ relationships with each other, parents and teachers
Teaching children to nurture and respect life
Helping work undertaken with the most vulnerable children, and educational improvements with low achievers
Helping children build confidence in reading.

My name Is Tiggy.

I am a Cavapoo (a cross between a Poodle and a Cavalier Spaniel). I am 5 years old. When I am not in school I live with Miss Figg. I am very affectionate and playful. I enjoy eating dog treats, going for walks and cuddling up on the sofa. I love playing with children, especially when they throw my favourite toy, which is a pink Monkey.

Tiggy is very friendly, however we ask that you follow the guidance below:-

Please do not shout Tiggy’s name from any distance
Only one or two people at a time are allowed to say hello to Tiggy
Ask the adult with her if you can approach Tiggy
If given permission to stroke Tiggy, you must lower yourself to the ground
Do not put your face close to Tiggy’s face
Wash your hands after stroking Tiggy
Only stroke Tiggy on her back, not her face, top of her head or tail;
Never disturb Tiggy when she is eating or sleeping
Never give Tiggy any of your food
If you are allergic to dogs or feel anxious about them please let a member of staff know.

Fluffy

Fluffy will be in school all day Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

My name Is Fluffy.

I am a 3 year old Abyssinian Guinea Pig and am so excited to meet you all. When I'm not in school I live with Mrs Campbell and her children. My favorite foods are basil, cucumber and as a treat a juicy piece of melon. I'm sometimes a little shy and nervous but love a cuddle and some attention.

Fluffy is very friendly, however we ask that you follow the guidance below:-

Wash Hands BEFORE and AFTER visiting Fluffy
Keep to small groups of 2 or 3 at a time
Be gentle, move slowly with calm voices
Never chase Fluffy around so you can pet him
Pet in the direction the fur grows
Start by petting the head or under the chin, gently with one or 2 fingers. His feet and underside are usually areas to avoid
Keep petting sessions brief in the beginning until he becomes more confident with the children
If Fluffy walks away from petting, that’s a signal to stop
Only feed the food that has been provided, NEVER give Fluffy any other items as it may make him sick