Therapy in the Age of the Dog

SESSION OVERVIEW

In the constantly evolving environment of international education, the need to look beyond traditional approaches to wellbeing have never been greater. There is an increased appetite to layer these approaches to provide access to welfare to an increasingly diverse range of students. What works for one may not work for another.

Six years ago, RMIT UP was introduced to Ziggy. She a is certified Therapy Dog, but truth is, her empathy, understanding and care for others cannot be taught. She’s the once in a lifetime kind of dog. This session will shed light on the role of animal assisted therapy and the international student experience. We will examine the influence of human-animal interactions and in particular, student wellbeing with the emergence of therapy dogs in university settings.

The session will spotlight the impact Ziggy has had on students at RMIT UP, and include the personal story of an RMIT UP student, whose education and personal experience was greatly affected by her time spent with Ziggy.

Ziggy will of course be in attendance

Session Outcomes

The session aims to broaden the horizons of what’s achievable in the wellbeing space in universities and to emphasise the diverse range of student needs and the role that animal assisted therapy plays in this.

PRESENTER

Matt has been working in international education for the past 25 years, and since 2016 has managed the Student Experience team at RMIT UP, bringing community and connection to international students on pathways to RMIT University.

He is also the besotted owner of RMIT UP’s therapy dog, Ziggy.

RMIT UP has been empowering learners with transformative experiences and global pathways for over 50 years. Their English language pathway and Foundation Studies programs equip
international students with the skills they need to succeed at university. Teachers at RMIT UP are experts in their field and passionate about working with international students.