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Sweet little Coco boosts special school pupils' confidence
CHILDREN from Bourne's Willoughby School have been enjoying the company of a new classmate – Coco the puppy.
CHILDREN from Bourne's Willoughby School have been enjoying the company of a new classmate – Coco the puppy.The 14-week-old chocolate Labrador has been brought into the special school as a therapy dog, visiting pupils on a daily basis to help with their education and social skills.
Headteacher Adam Booker, who owns Coco, said the decision to introduce the dog into the school was based on a number of factors.
He said: "Coco will assist us in educating children about animals in a safe way. She will also be used to provide light relief for pupils during difficult times."
For the past three weeks, Coco has been in school each day, visiting classes as part of her socialisation routine, where she has been well received by pupils.
Mr Booker said: "Already, a little bit of shared training and playing with the puppy has made a great difference to many of the pupils' behaviour and confidence."
Adam and his wife Lisa, who live in Morton, near Bourne, bought the puppy before Christmas from a breeder in North Yorkshire. Coco is being coached by local dog trainer Karen Wild.
Mr Booker said: "In order for the school to get the most out of Coco, we are having her specially trained. She is already proving to be a great asset to the school."
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Sunday 12 February 2012
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