Several Brazil Schools Incorporate Dogs to Offer Emotional Support to Students

The initiative seeks to support students’ mental health and overall well-being.

March 10, 2025 | Brazil | Jackson França, South American Division, and Adventist Review

At the start of the 2025 school year, several Seventh-day Adventist schools in a southern Brazil region added a novelty that won over students: golden retriever puppies. Known for their docile and sociable temperament, this breed was chosen because it interacts well with children and teenagers, leaders behind the initiative said.

“More than joy, dogs play an important role in the emotional well-being of students by promoting values such as empathy, respect, and cooperation,” they explained.

The introduction of dogs in the school environment was based on the conviction that animals contribute significantly to the emotional and social development of children and adolescents, leaders said. Inspired by other Adventist schools that implemented similar projects, school leaders in western Paraná adopted the initiative, initially aimed at supporting students with anxiety crises. However, within days it became evident that the dogs could benefit the entire school community.

The interaction with the puppies changed the routine in the school corridors. Situations that previously generated anxiety, such as moments before exams, or disagreements between students, gave way to more positive interactions, marked by affection and connection. With a quiet presence, the dogs began to act as a point of emotional support for the students throughout the day.

Breed Choice and Feedback

The choice of golden retrievers was not by chance. Known for their sweetness, intelligence, and socialization skills, these dogs undergo professional training three times a week. On weekends the school team takes turns to take care of them, which ensures a healthy and balanced development, school leaders said.

Parents also support the initiative. Many report that the presence of dogs helps their child cope better with anxiety and school stress, especially those who have always wanted a pet but couldn’t have one at home. “My son always arrives telling the games he played with Mel [the golden retriever puppy]. He’s never been so excited to go to school!” one student’s mother said.

Dogs include Cacau (Cocoa), serving at Cascavel Adventist Academy. More than emotional support, Cacau has reinforced values such as respect for nature and collective responsibility, local educational leaders reported. “The philosophy of Adventist education encourages connection with the environment and spiritual principles, and the presence of the mascot has complemented this learning,” they said.

Another positive impact occurred on the school’s organization. Students began to be more attentive to the hygiene of shared spaces. “Living with Cacau has stimulated students’ attention and engagement,” academy principal Felipe Cardoso said.

Another dog is Mel (Honey), which serves at Campo Mourão Adventist Academy. For principal Aline Gonçalves, “living with Mel has awakened in students a greater sense of responsibility and empathy.” She added, “Her impact was much greater than we imagined. We started with the intention of providing emotional support, but we saw that her presence strengthens various aspects of learning and socialization.”

Then there’s Amora (Blackberry), serving at Toledo Adventist Academy. Dog-assisted therapy has proved to be an innovative approach, school leaders said. Amora’s presence has helped students facing emotional difficulties, creating a safer and more welcoming environment, they explained. “Our experience with Amora has been transformative, reinforcing the school’s commitment to wholistic well-being,” principal Telma Alexandre said.

A Promising Future

Results so far are promising, educational leaders said. They are now planning to expand the project, creating specific activities that integrate dogs in a more structured way into the school routine. The goal is to extend this initiative to other schools, they said. Currently the Adventist education system in western Paraná includes seven schools with about 4,379 students.

The original version of this story was posted on the South American Division news site.