Carraragarmungee Primary School celebrates therapy dog Fenella’s graduation

There’s a new graduate at Carraragarmungee Primary School, and she’s got four paws and a wagging tail. Fenella, affectionately known as “Fen,” has officially passed her Therapy Dog accreditation with K9 Support at the end of last term, marking a joyful milestone for the small rural school. Fen, a bright and bubbly one-and-a-half-year-old Border Collie, has been a familiar face at Carraragarmungee since she was a pup. Her journey began following the loss of the school’s beloved therapy dog Jean to cancer in March last year. Grade 3 student Max Herrman-O'Brian said it's a mix of emotions having Fen here but Jean being gone. "It's sad because Jean is gone, but happy because Fen is here. "Fen started here when she was seven moths old and could get through the cracks in the fence and I'm proud of her finishing her training." Jean’s passing left a noticeable void in the school community, but Fen’s arrival has helped bring light and laughter back into the halls. Teacher Thomas O’Hehir said Fen has been a source of joy since day one. “She’s different from Jean, but the atmosphere changed the moment she arrived," he said. “It was like someone flipped the switch back on,” he said. Fen’s role goes far beyond cuddles and tail wags. While she’s primarily there to support students with disabilities, a term that encompasses a wide range of needs including physical, emotional, and socioeconomic challenges, her impact is felt by everyone. Grade 4 student Sophie Bell said her favourite park about having Fen as school is she is playful. "She's someone kids can connect to, it's like having another friend," she said. "She's the best dog in the world, most schools should have a dog because she helps kids develop confidence." Grade 2 student Odie Siharaji described Fen as fun, helpful and cares about people. "She is everyone's friend," he said. "Every school should have a therapy dog. "She has taught us lots about training dogs, when you stay calm, she stays calm." Her cheerful presence greets students each morning, lifting spirits and helping children regulate their emotions, especially those dealing with anxiety or trauma. “She’s a friend to anyone who needs one,” Thomas said. “She doesn’t judge, she doesn’t exclude. “That sense of unconditional acceptance helps kids feel safe and included, which is essential for learning.” Even students who are already thriving benefit from Fen’s presence. She inspires creative writing, teaches responsibility through pet care and empowers students to share their knowledge with others. Fen’s journey to becoming a certified therapy dog was unique. Rather than waiting until she was older, the school welcomed her as a pup, a decision made with confidence in the students’ maturity and compassion, demonstrated during Jean’s illness. Thomas said the students have been actively involved in Fen’s training, helping her reach obedience milestones and feeling a deep sense of ownership over her success. “To the kids, Fen has always been a therapy dog,” he said. “They’re proud, but more than anything, they feel connected to her journey.”

Carraragarmungee Primary School celebrates therapy dog Fenella’s graduation

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