Page 11 - Demo

11This year, High March has been fortunate to welcome a very special four-legged visitor, who has quickly become one of the most popular members of our community. Coco, a gentle and affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, visits us once a week as part of the Pets as Therapy (PAT) %u2018Read2Dogs%u2019 programme. Owned by the kind and devoted Mrs Reeves, a High March parent, Coco brings comfort, companionship and a wagging tail to both our Junior House and Upper School pupils. Coco is around 2 %u00bd years old and has been trained as a Pets as Therapy Dog since February. Her favourite things are food, walks and cuddles!Each week, pupils look forward to seeing Coco%u2019s cheerful face in the Library, where small group sessions are held to help build confidence and encourage a sense of calm. For many, spending time with Coco is more than just a treat%u2014it%u2019s a unique opportunity to relax, talk with friends and connect with a gentle, non-judgmental companion.These sessions are carefully structured to ensure everyone has time to interact with Coco in a quiet and nurturing environment. Whether sitting beside her with a book, gently stroking her silky ears, or simply chatting with Mrs Reeves and their peers, we have found that these visits have become an important part of the children%u2019s week. Mrs Reeves has been a wonderful guide throughout, answering the girls%u2019 many questions about Coco, dog care and the work of PAT dogs in schools, hospitals and care homes across the country. We are deeply appreciative of Mrs Reeves and Coco for bringing such a positive and uplifting presence to our school community. Whether in Junior House or Upper School, Coco%u2019s presence never fails to brighten the day and leave everyone smiling.COCO, OUR THERAPY DOGHello, Blossom!Blossom is also trained as a Pets As Therapy dog and she supports Coco as and when needed.