Community Dog Gully

More than a companion

How Gully Supports Our School Community

- Stepaside Educate Together Secondary School

Gully, our Community Dog, has become a highly valued and integral part of our school community. His role extends well beyond companionship, supporting students’ emotional wellbeing, social development and engagement with learning, and contributing to a calm, inclusive and supportive school environment.

Therapy dogs are widely recognized for their positive impact in educational settings. Their presence can reduce anxiety, support emotional regulation and foster a sense of safety. At our school, Gully fulfils this role daily. His calm and gentle nature helps students feel grounded, particularly during moments of stress, transition or emotional overload. Simply spending time near him often allows children to slow down, regulate their emotions, and feel more secure.

One clear example of Gully’s impact can be seen in his interactions with students such as Conor. In the moments captured in the accompanying photographs, Conor appears calm, focused, and emotionally settled while engaging with Gully. For students who may experience anxiety, reduced confidence, or difficulties with emotional regulation, these moments are significant. Gully offers a non-judgemental presence, providing comfort without expectation and support without pressure. This enables students to engage more openly, whether through conversation, learning activities, or emotional expression.

While Gully has supported reading and learning activities, his influence extends far beyond academic outcomes. He helps students develop emotional awareness, empathy, and positive social skills. Through interactions with Gully, students learn to approach calmly, respect boundaries, and care for another living being. These experiences promote self-regulation, responsibility, and social understanding skills that are essential both inside and outside the classroom.

Gully is particularly beneficial for students who find the school environment overwhelming. During busy or challenging moments, time spent with him can help de-escalate heightened emotions and restore a sense of balance. Staff frequently observe that students return to class calmer, more focused, and better able to participate following interactions with Gully. This contributes to improved behaviour, increased engagement and a more positive overall school experience.

The positive impact of Gully is also felt among staff. His presence contributes to a calmer school atmosphere and supports the development of strong, trusting relationships between students and adults. Gully often acts as a bridge for communication, helping students feel comfortable and supported when engaging with staff members.

Student involvement is central to Gully’s role within our school. Students take pride in interacting with him respectfully, understanding his needs and reflecting on how his presence supports their wellbeing. Through discussions, artwork, and shared experiences, students consistently express that Gully helps them feel safe, happy, and supported.

Gully represents inclusion, wellbeing, and compassion. He serves as a reminder that learning and development are not solely academic, but also emotional and social. His quiet presence helps create an environment in which students feel understood, supported, and valued.

As part of Irish Guide Dogs’ Community Dog Programme, and in celebration of the organisation’s 50th anniversary, we are proud to share our experience. Gully has made a meaningful and lasting difference to our students, staff and wider school community, and his positive impact continues to be felt each day.