School Therapy Dog
June 24, 2020
Nala first visited the school nearly four years ago and became a key member of the support team until her recent death after a short illness.
Mr Fisken, part of the support staff, rehomed her in 2012 and brought her into the school to support pupils within the nurture hub and integrated support area.
An afternoon per week soon became two or three days and, along with her best friend and fellow therapy dog, Ozzie, Nala quickly became a regular throughout Queen Anne.
Both dogs helped support pupils with anxiety, behaviour, literacy and wellbeing.
In a recent bulletin to pupils, staff and families, the school said: “Nala’s gentle presence would bring smiles to faces in difficult times and she will be very much missed as a loving member of the QAHS community.
“We will all miss Nala and we are very much thinking of Ozzie, Mr Fisken and his family at this difficult time.
“Rest in Peace Nala – run free, we love you and thank you from us all.”
Pauline MacDougall, PT pupil support (nurture), said: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Nala.
“She was a wonderful therapy dog and will be sadly missed by our nurture staff, pupils and the wider school community.
“Over the years, the unconditional support, comfort and reassurance she offered our pupils was truly amazing!
“We were truly fortunate to have the pleasure of working with our four-legged friend and we all have our very own special memories of our time with her.
“Nala will be always remembered, forever missed but never forgotten.”