The purpose of Animal Assisted Therapy is to enhance an individual’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive well-being with the use of a trained therapy animal. Research indicates that animals in general have a calming effect and have been proven to lower anxiety. It is also indicated that animals promote positive social reactions and engagements. Thus, using certified therapy animals in a school setting is proven to be exceptionally beneficial. Children that struggle with reading delays or cognitive deficits have shown marked improvement in overall performance with the utilization of Animal Assisted Therapy. Furthermore, children with physical, emotional, and learning disabilities often find that being in the presence of a therapy animal affords them comfort and encouragement to participate more within the classroom. We, the undersigned, believe in the benefit of Animal Assisted Therapy for our children and students.

We, the undersigned, being parents, teachers, family and community members of the Clever R-V School District petition the Administration and Board of Education to continue and implement the use of volunteer therapy dogs visits and Animal Assisted Therapies within the district.