Therapy Animals Create Calm at New Hope Academy

At NewHope Academy in Arlington Heights, support for students can come in many forms. Sometimes, it has fur, floppy ears, or scales.

How Therapy Animals Support Students

Throughout the school day, students at the therapeutic day school interact with Fenway, the school’s therapy dog; Emmy, a therapy bunny; and Niles, a bearded dragon who has become a favorite on campus. Each animal plays a different role in helping students regulate emotions, stay engaged, and build important life skills.

For students navigating anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, or difficulties in traditional school settings, these interactions can create moments of calm and connection that help them reset and refocus.

Fenway the Therapy Dog

Fenway is integrated into the school day in a variety of ways. Students may spend time with her during counseling sessions, emotional regulation breaks, or transitions that feel particularly stressful. Some students walk with her while others simply sit nearby for comfort and support.

Emmy the Therapy Bunny

Emmy offers a quieter form of interaction. The therapy bunny provides students with a low-stimulation sensory experience during supervised regulation breaks. Students may pet, hold, or quietly observe Emmy to decompress and regroup.

Niles the Bearded Dragon

Niles, the school’s bearded dragon, brings a more hands-on opportunity for students to develop responsibility and consistency. Students assist with feeding him, cleaning his habitat, and helping with supervised care routines alongside staff.

“These interactions may seem simple, but they can have a real impact on a student’s day,” said Nicole Davenport, regional director. “For many of our students, animals can create connection in ways traditional interventions sometimes cannot.”

Staff members say the animals help students build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and engage more comfortably with peers and adults. The animals also help create positive routines and incentives throughout the school day.