Training requirements for wellbeing and engagement animals and animal handlers
To ensure the safety of staff, students and animals in an animal-assisted wellbeing and engagement program, animals and animal handlers must have appropriate training.
Ensuring appropriate training
Principals must ensure the training of both animals and animal handlers by suitably qualified trainers before commencement of an animal-assisted wellbeing and engagement program by considering the:
- appropriate training qualifications
- provision of appropriate and ethical services
- continuing professional development.
Several training providers are listed on the Schools Mental Health . Those providers form a panel of providers that have been contracted under the department’s standard contract. Schools can find further information including the Rules of Use on the Department managed categories .
The provider list is not exhaustive, and schools are encouraged to do their own evidence-based research and make informed decisions about the programs that best meet their needs.
For professional development on how to incorporate safe and effective animal-assisted wellbeing and engagement programs within the school environment, refer to the department's free 20-minute online module Implementing animal-assisted wellbeing and engagement programs in or register for the La Trobe University 10-week course Implementing Animal-Assisted School .
Animal training
Some animals, such as dogs and horses, must have appropriate training to be wellbeing and engagement animals with children and young people.
Wellbeing and engagement animals must be re-evaluated regularly by the animal handler, noting any changes in temperament due to age or illness, to ensure they are still suitable to work in a wellbeing or engagement animal-assisted program.
For specific advice on the training requirements for wellbeing and engagement dogs, refer to the Specific requirements for wellbeing and engagement animals guidance chapter.
Reviewed 24 April 2025