Life has a way of bringing joy when it’s needed most. For our family, that joy arrived in the form of a sweet Sheepadoodle puppy named Freya. Just 4 1/2 months old, Freya is already making an incredible difference in our lives and the lives of many others. She accompanies our daughter to work each day at the preschool she owns, where her presence brings smiles, comfort, and hope to children and adults alike. Freya is currently training to become a therapy dog, with a special mission to help young children manage anxiety—a quality she seems naturally gifted at.
Our family recently went through the heartbreaking experience of saying goodbye to two beloved 16-year-old schnauzers, who passed away within a day of each other. Their loss left a void, but Freya has come into our lives with boundless love, energy, and an innate ability to heal. Here’s how this remarkable Sheepadoodle puppy is bringing joy, laughter, and comfort, both to our family and to the children at the preschool.
The Perfect Fit: Freya’s Role at the Preschool
Freya’s daily journey to the preschool has quickly become a highlight for both her and the students. She’s more than just a visitor—she’s becoming an integral part of the school environment, learning to support children emotionally through her calm and nurturing presence. As a Sheepadoodle, Freya has a wonderful mix of the intelligence of a poodle and the gentle, sociable nature of an Old English Sheepdog, making her an ideal candidate for therapy work. Her fluffy coat, soft eyes, and friendly demeanor immediately put everyone at ease.
Helping Children Cope with Anxiety
Today’s children face unique challenges, with anxiety and emotional stress becoming increasingly common even at a young age. Freya is training to be a therapy dog, a role that involves providing comfort and emotional support, especially for children dealing with anxiety. She has a calming effect that allows children to feel safe, grounded, and understood. Simply petting or hugging her helps many little ones release their stress and feel reassured in a way that words cannot convey.
Freya’s training is focused on learning to remain calm in various situations, to respond to different emotions, and to provide support without being overwhelming. She’s learning commands that help her understand when to approach a child, how to stay still for petting, and when to sit quietly by a child’s side. Her journey to becoming a certified therapy dog is still ongoing, but even now, her impact is noticeable.
The Healing Power of a Therapy Dog: How Freya Brings Joy and Comfort
Therapy dogs like Freya are trained to provide emotional comfort, reduce anxiety, and create a sense of calm. For our daughter and her preschoolers, Freya’s presence has transformed the atmosphere at the school. Children who may struggle with separation anxiety, social challenges, or emotional outbursts find reassurance in Freya’s calm, gentle nature. Her ability to connect with each child individually is a testament to the unique and profound role that therapy dogs can play in education and emotional development.
A Newfound Joy After Heartbreak
Freya’s arrival has been especially meaningful for our daughter, who had to say goodbye to her two cherished schnauzers recently. Losing both dogs in such a short time was a profound loss, but Freya has brought a renewed sense of purpose and happiness into her life. While no dog can replace another, Freya’s personality and her ability to connect with people have provided a new source of comfort and companionship.
Our daughter has expressed that Freya’s presence feels like a reminder of the healing power of love. In many ways, this little Sheepadoodle has filled the emptiness left by her schnauzers, bringing happiness back into the home and the preschool. Freya has not only become a beloved family member but also a symbol of resilience, healing, and hope.
Training Freya: Preparing for Her Therapy Dog Certification
Freya’s journey to becoming a certified therapy dog involves comprehensive training to ensure she can handle various situations and personalities. Therapy dog training focuses on teaching her to remain calm, obedient, and sensitive to the needs of those around her. She’s learning how to respond to specific commands that will allow her to support children effectively without getting overstimulated herself.
Training Freya includes exercises in:
- Socialization: Freya is exposed to different environments, sounds, and people to ensure she remains calm and approachable.
- Obedience: Basic obedience commands like sit, stay, and come are crucial for her safety and the safety of the children she interacts with.
- Sensitivity Training: Freya is learning to recognize emotions, respond to touch, and understand when her presence is needed for comfort.
Freya is also trained to adapt to different individuals’ needs, especially young children. She’s learning to be patient and understanding, with an instinctual ability to sense when someone requires a little extra comfort.
The Joy of Traveling Together: Freya’s Car Seat Adventures
Freya accompanies our daughter to work every day, a trip made comfortable with a cozy travel car seat bed we found at Aldi. The travel car seat has quickly become one of her favorite places, and she settles into it eagerly each morning, ready for her daily adventure. This setup not only ensures her safety while traveling but also makes her feel secure and relaxed.
With her cozy car seat, Freya has come to associate car rides with excitement, knowing that each journey leads to a day filled with love and attention from the preschool children. Having her comfortable during the drive is essential, as it sets the tone for the day and prepares her for her role as a calming influence at the preschool.
The Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Educational Settings
The impact of therapy dogs in educational environments is profound. Research shows that therapy dogs like Freya can help reduce stress, improve social interactions, and enhance children’s emotional well-being. For children who experience anxiety, having a therapy dog nearby can offer a sense of stability and security. Freya’s presence helps children build empathy, confidence, and social skills, all of which contribute to their overall development.
Fostering Empathy and Social Skills
Freya’s interactions with the children provide a unique opportunity for them to practice empathy and kindness. By caring for her, they learn to respect boundaries, communicate non-verbally, and express compassion. This interaction is especially valuable for children who may struggle with traditional social interactions, as Freya offers them a non-judgmental, comforting presence.
Building Confidence and Reducing Anxiety
Children with anxiety often find it easier to connect with animals than with people. Freya’s gentle nature gives these children the confidence to open up, explore their emotions, and practice self-regulation. Therapy dogs like Freya help to create a welcoming, accepting atmosphere that encourages children to express themselves and feel valued.
Looking Ahead: Freya’s Future as a Therapy Dog
Freya’s journey is just beginning, but her impact is already significant. As she continues her training, we look forward to seeing the many ways she will touch lives and support children in need. Her story is a reminder of the power of animals to bring comfort, joy, and healing to those who need it most. Freya has a bright future ahead, one filled with purpose and love.
We’re grateful to have Freya in our lives and excited to see her blossom into a fully certified therapy dog. Her journey is one of love, resilience, and dedication, and we’re honored to share it with her. For anyone considering a therapy dog, Freya’s story is a testament to the life-changing impact these incredible animals can have on families and communities alike.
