My name is Milo, and I have the best job in the world—I am a school dog! Every morning, I trot into school with my tail wagging, ready for a new day of learning, cuddles, and important work. But I’m not just any dog. I’m part of a special project called WOOFF, which helps kids grow stronger in their feelings, focus, and friendships—all with the help of dogs like me!
I remember my first day. Some kids were excited to see me, their hands reaching out for a scratch behind my ears. Others stood back, a little uncertain. That’s okay. I know that some kids need time to trust me, just like how I needed time to learn all my school-dog skills.
One boy, Lucas, barely spoke to anyone and kept his head down in class. But then the teacher asked if he wanted to help me practice my commands. He hesitated but knelt down beside me.
“Milo, sit,” he said softly.
I plopped down instantly, my tail swishing. His lips twitched into a smile. The next time, his voice was a little stronger. Day by day, Lucas practiced giving me commands, walking me through the halls, and even reading stories to me. And guess what? He started talking more to his classmates too.
Another girl, Emma, was always moving—tapping her pencil, shifting in her chair, bouncing on her toes. Her mind raced so fast, it was hard for her to focus. One day, she got to hold my leash while we walked together in a straight line. Step by step, breath by breath, she learned how to match my pace, to slow down, to concentrate. Soon, she started using the same trick during class—taking deep breaths and focusing on one thing at a time.
The teachers say I’m not just a cute face—I help kids build their executive functions (that means learning how to plan, focus, and stay calm) and their social-emotional skills (like understanding feelings and making friends). And I’m not alone! In schools across Europe, my furry colleagues Luna, Mimi, Cody and many more are teaching, comforting, and supporting students.
Through WOOFF, my human friends are learning how to make our work even better. Scientists are studying how dogs help kids, teachers are creating special dog-assisted lessons, and soon, more schools will be able to have dogs like me helping students.
I don’t understand all the big words, but I know one thing: every wag of my tail, every paw step I take, is making a difference. And that makes me the proudest school dog ever!
