🐾 Meet Buzz – Our School Dog!

 Buzz is a much-loved member of our Homerswood family. Born on 20th March 2017, Buzz is a Yorkiepoo (a Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle cross) with a big heart and an even bigger personality!

He’s also a fully qualified therapy dog who plays an important role in school life. He is Calm, gentle, and always ready to listen, Buzz brings a sense of comfort, fun, and support to the children and staff he works with every day.

🐶 Why Have a School Dog?

Having a class dog like Buzz brings a whole host of benefits. Research shows that therapy dogs in schools can help children in many ways:

💭 Cognitive Benefits

• Encourages memory skills and problem-solving

• Sparks curiosity through play and learning games

🗣️ Social Benefits

• Creates a shared, positive topic of conversation

• Builds responsibility, teamwork, and wellbeing

💖 Emotional Benefits

• Boosts mood, confidence, and self-esteem

• Promotes compassion, kindness, and laughter

• Helps reduce anxiety and stress

💪 Physical Benefits

• Lowers blood pressure and encourages gentle movement

• Offers calming, tactile interaction

• Motivates children to stay active

🌈 Environmental Benefits

• Creates a warm, family-like atmosphere

• Enhances the overall wellbeing of the school community

📖 Reading Support

• Children love reading to Buzz!

• He listens without judgement, creating a calming space for building literacy skills and reading confidence

🧠 Common Questions and Concerns

🐾 “What if my child is allergic to dogs?”

Buzz is a Yorkiepoo, a breed known for minimal shedding. He’s regularly groomed and kept clean. Buzz only interacts with pupils who are comfortable and with full adult supervision.

🐾 “Is Buzz properly cared for?”

Absolutely! Buzz lives with Mrs McKay who ensures he’s healthy, happy, and well-rested.

• He’s trained, insured, and assessed by Pets As Therapy.

• He’s always supervised in school.

• He has a comfy space to rest under a desk in class.

• He sees the vet regularly for check-ups and vaccinations.

🐾 “What if my child is scared of dogs?”

We understand that some children may be nervous around animals. Buzz will never interact with any pupil who isn’t comfortable. His calm, gentle nature often helps children overcome their fears with time, always under adult guidance.

🐾 “But isn’t there a no dogs policy?”

Yes – we do have a ‘no dogs’ rule for families dropping off or picking up pupils. However, as a certified therapy dog, Buzz is allowed on school premises under special permission — just like guide or hearing dogs. He is always on a lead and accompanied by a member of staff.

🐕 Buzz’s Impact

Buzz brings joy, calm, and confidence to our school community. Whether he’s curled up listening to a pupil read or simply offering a friendly paw, Buzz reminds us of the power of kindness, connection, and care.

💬 “Buzz makes me feel calm and happy. I love reading to him because he always listens.”
– Year 6 Pupil 

We’re so proud to have Buzz as part of our Homerswood team!