During SY2020-2021, Oak Lawn Community High School welcomed two therapy dogs.  Luigi (left) & Franklin (right).

​Daily Southtown Article Featuring Franklin & Luigi 

OLCHS Therapy Dog Handout ​

How do we use them at OLCHS?​
Luigi 

• "Lives" each day in the Student Services Office with Social Worker, Mr. Montes
• Students/Staff visit when needed
• Attends group sessions with social workers/counselors 
• Luigi can be reserved for classes to read to him, learn about dog hygiene, art therapy 

Franklin

• ​"Lives" in the Main Office with Principal, Dr. Lietz
• Franklin greets/walks hallways
• Franklin can be reserved for classes to read to him, learn about dog hygiene, art therapy
• Students/staff could visit when needed  

What are the benefits of a Therapy Dog?

Mental Health:  

• Simple act of petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response. 
  • Humans interacting with animals have found that petting the animal promoted the release of serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin-all hormones that can play a part in elevating moods. 
• Lowers anxiety and helps people relax
• Provides comfort
• Reduces loneliness
• Increases mental stimulation
• Can provide an escape or happy distraction

Physical Health 

• Lowers blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health
• Reduces the amount of medications some people need
• Breathing slows in those who are anxious
• Releases many hormones such as Phenylethylamine which has the same effect as chocolate
• Diminishes overall physical pain
• For Children with Autism
  • ​Children with Autism were engaged in significantly greater use of language as well as social interaction with their therapy session that incorporated animals compared to standard therapy sessions without them

Please Note:  Students/Staff/Visitors will never be required to interact with the dogs, nor come in contact with them in a closed space.  ​