Program Q&A
Why is your program so successful?
Since crime is often a mentality that is learned, we help students unlearn unhealthy thought patterns and develop new ones. As the students develop new thought patterns, they see their lives change for the better week after week. The key aspect, however, is the presence of a rescued dog in the classroom during each lesson. The dog and his or her rescue story is a living reminder that even the most wounded among us is important and has something valuable to contribute.
What are the best ages or grades for the Healing Species program?
The Healing Species lessons are universal life-lessons which apply to all ages, even adults! Therefore, the content can be delivered to all ages. However, our favorite ages for the Healing Species program is 4th-8th grade because they are developmentally ready to address the in-depth issues of abuse, neglect, bullying, conflict resolution, responsible choices (including alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use/abuse), advocacy, and more.
Do you offer Healing Species train-the-trainer workshops in other states?
Sometimes. Out-of-state trainings are scheduled on a case-by-case basis and for multiple implementers. In the meantime, please see our [calendar] or [contact us] for the next scheduled training in South Carolina, where you can see the program in action.
Where do you get your service dogs for the program?
Healing Species dogs are most often part of the instructor’s adopted family, but also may come from animal assistance programs, shelter outreach programs, volunteers who serve as Classroom Assistants and bring a rescued dog, and friends of Healing Species. Each dog must:
- have a rescue history
- be temperament tested, proving interest and willingness to be exposed to this extremely social atmosphere
- have access to ongoing health maintenance and quality care, be current on all shots and vaccinations, in good health, properly groomed, and receive regular treatment for fleas, ticks, worms
What if some students are allergic to dogs?
Children will not be made to feel inferior if they are allergic to animals. Rather, they will be reassured, comforted, and allowed to sit away from the animal. Please note, however, that since the inception of Healing Species and services to thousands of students, no child has ever had an adverse allergic reaction to the dogs. If your child has a severe allergy to dogs, please notify the school.
What if some students are afraid of the dogs?
 In some classes, there may be a student who does not want to be near or touch the dog. Healing Species instructors are trained to first reassure them that Healing Species would not bring a dog into the classroom who would hurt them. Each of the dogs are temperament-tested and have not shown any signs of aggression. Rather, they are the dogs who love the attention, and their wagging tail proves it! Instructors will let all students know they do not have to touch the dog and can relocate to sit in the back of the room if they feel more comfortable there. In most cases, after witnessing the love of the dog, students who once expressed fear gain the courage to overcome their fear – a great life-lesson- and pet the dog – usually by week three. They are so proud of themselves!
Can I buy the manual without attending the training?
This program can be successful and highly effective, but only through delivery from well-trained, professional, and charismatic instructors who are trained by our staff to implement. We believe that the issues covered by our curriculum are "hot topics." If done correctly, this curriculum literally changes lives and delivers a powerful punch on behalf of kids’ rights and animal and environmental protection. However, if any issues are delivered incorrectly, our program becomes ineffective and even worse, we risk doing damage.
Are your teachers volunteers?
No. All of our teachers are paid, well-trained staff. In the beginning, Healing Species attempted to run on volunteers; but the grueling schedule, complex nature and involved presentations of the curriculum, the complicated and sensitive issues addressed, along with the cumbersome task of consistently bringing an accompanying rescued dog, requires a paid, trained professional.
What is the cost of the program?
Standard Fee for Services per semester is set at approximately $12,000 per school for up to 250 students (or 12 classes) for our staff to implement with trained instructors in logistically possible locations. This covers:
- Direct Service Implementation for up to 12 classrooms per school (for 11-13 weeks) for Regions Served
- Employee Training and Continuing Education
- Curriculum and Materials
- Travel and Expenses
- Service Dog Care
- Basic Supplies given to each Instructor
- Operational Office Expenses
How do schools find funding for the program?
Schools may attain funding for the Healing Species program from a variety of sources, including:
- Federal funding streams such as Title One Funds, At-Risk Funds, Supplemental or Innovative Grant funds, etc.
- Other school-based funding
- PTA – Parent/Teacher Associations
- Foundation or Corporate Grants
- Community donors – individuals or businesses
I’m interested in implementing the Healing Species program in my area or school. What do I need to do?
Interested in having Healing Species at your school or district? We provide training and support. Interested in your own Satellite Chapter for your area? Contact us to learn more!
Would Healing Species come speak to my school students or parents, staff, company or organization?
Healing Species would love to send a representative to speak to your group, if available. Sample topics include :
- Parent Connections Class “How Your Child Can Succeed in Life”
- School-based Assembly “Dogs of Character”
- Business Leaders Presentation “Changing Lives in Your Community”
Contact us today to request Healing Species at your school.
Learn about the Compassion and Character Education Program and Curriculum. >
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