Queensbury Academy trains up its very own therapy dog

Queensbury Academy in Dunstable, part of Anthem Schools Trust, has a new member of staff: Loki the 21-week-old Mastiff puppy.

Loki was rescued by animal rescue charity Balto at just five days old, after being abandoned, and Queensbury Academy got him when he was seven weeks old.

Loki, a Mastiff, is on his way to becoming a certified therapy dog, with his training being completed through Therapy Dog Training UK.

He is being trained by Queensbury member of staff, Katie Edmunds.

Loki will complete his certification when he turns 18 months old and will be coming into school to support students.

The dog is very gentle and loves being around people and the school community at Queensbury is excited about watching him flourish into his new role.

Katie Edmunds said: “Loki is doing so well in his training and I am very proud at how confidently he is developing skills that will help our students navigate the challenges of everyday life.

“As his trainer, my job is to make sure that Loki is calm and gentle and is able to give emotional support in any situation.

“I can’t wait to see him come into school and instantly make Queensbury students - and staff - feel happier, more relaxed and better understood.”

Helen Palmer, Headteacher at Queensbury Academy said: “We are delighted to be welcoming our very own therapy dog at Queensbury and we are really looking forward to supporting him on his journey.

“Seeing young people with Loki has totally transformed my thinking about the power of therapy dogs and I hope that Loki will become an essential part of our school experience, helping students manage anxiety, stress and build emotional resilience.

“We are very grateful to Katie for all her hard work in training Loki and we look forward to his assistance as we continue to provide a school culture at Queensbury that values kindness and compassion.”