Group 7 of primary school East in Bergen op Zoom has recently added a new classmate. Duko, a twelve week old labradoodle puppy, is being trained as a class dog. “The goal is that Duko will soon offer support to the children if they are not feeling well.”
Master of group 7, Rick Trommelen, is Duko’s owner. “My partner and I have wanted a dog for a long time, but this was a problem as we both work full time. Until I applied for a job at this nature school. I had read articles from America and Sweden about school dogs and when I suggested it during my application, the response was enthusiastic.”
Still, it took a while before it finally happened. School director Saskia van Loon: ”We first needed approval from the board, then from the participation council and of course the team. Then protocols had to be drawn up. That was quite a job.”
But all the arrangements are quickly forgotten: ”A school dog gives so much fun and peace. Such an animal gives a lot of love, while you don’t have to do much for it yourself.”
The students are also very happy with the arrival of Duko. “When students are not feeling well, Duko comforts them,” says Jiano Verbeek from group 7. Classmate Sarah van der Kolk can no longer do without Duko. He is super sweet and always comes to give kisses. You can discuss anything with a dog.”
Duko visits master Rick’s class every day for a maximum of one and a half hours. “That way he can get used to the children, the smells and the space.”
The rest of the time he is with director Saskia in her office. He can have a good rest there. “We expect him to be in the classroom full-time in a year,” she says. And the next step? ”Chickens! But they are not allowed in my office!”