Have a Certified Dog Safety Professional Visit your School
Hi, I’m Katie Brill a certified dog trainer, separation anxiety specialist, and officially certified Kids Around Dogs (KAD) trainer.
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Whether your school has a staff dog or simply wants to teach children how to behave safely around dogs, this dogs in schools programme is designed for you.
I work with nurseries, primary schools, secondary school, and specialist schools across Surrey to deliver engaging, age-appropriate sessions that boost safety, confidence, and understanding - for both children and staff.
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Whether you're looking to have a dog assessed to be a school dog or bring in a fun and educational talk about canine safety, I’d love to help.
Dogs in Schools Risk Assessment
If your school already has a staff dog, you want to be confident they’re comfortable, well-prepared, and safe to be around pupils.
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As a Kids Around Dogs professional, I carry out full assessments in line with the KAD framework. These assessments give you clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance on how to get the best from your school dog and what activities might be suitable.
What's Included in a Dog Assessment
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A full on-site observation and behaviour assessment.
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A written report for the dog’s handler and the senior leadership team.
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Advice on how to handle tricky situations or build confidence in the dog.
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Handler and Dog ID badges to be worn proudly.
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Recommendation on any further training that is needed.
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Recommendations to help your school dog thrive as part of the school community.
This isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about setting your dog - and your school - up for success.
Dog Safety Talks & School Visit Programme
Let’s teach children how to stay safe around dogs - for life
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Whether pupils have a dog at home or are a little unsure around them, learning how to read and respond to dogs is a vital life skill. Through my dogs in schools programme, I offer two options tailored to your school’s needs.
Option 1: Whole-School Assembly
An engaging assembly for the whole school (with dog present) that covers:
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How to safely approach dogs - or when to give them space
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Key signs of dog body language children can recognise
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Real-life safety tips in an age-appropriate, positive format
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Each session includes storytelling and interactive discussion to help pupils remember what they’ve learned.
Option 2: Full Dog Education Programme
Ideal for schools looking to embed this learning across the whole academic year.
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Each class receives:
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Autumn Term Visit (No Dog)
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30 min per class.
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A mix of storytelling, visual learning, and fun discussion.
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Age-specific content tailored to each year group.
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Focus on dog body language, staying calm, and keeping safe.
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Summer Term Visit (with Nala the Dog!)
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30 min outdoor session per class.
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Pupils meet Nala, my calm and friendly school approved dog.
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Practical demonstration on dog body language.
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They practise what they’ve learned in a safe, controlled setting.
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Confidence-building and gentle, real-life experience.
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It’s amazing to see how much children grow in just one year with this programme - from nervous to confident, unsure to informed.
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The Benefits of a Dogs in Schools Programme
Social Benefits
Having a dog in a school setting can significantly strengthen social connections for all students, particularly neurodiverse children who may find peer interaction challenging. The dog can act as a safe, non-judgmental companion and a shared point of interest, reducing social pressure and encouraging communication in a gentle way.
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Encourages positive social interactions and conversations.
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Acts as a bridge between students who struggle with traditional forms of peer engagement.
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Helps develop empathy, kindness, and understanding of others.
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Supports the building of trust and a sense of belonging.
Educational Benefits
A school dog can enhance engagement in learning activities, especially for neurodiverse children who may benefit from multisensory and experiential approaches to education. The calming presence of a dog can help improve attention, persistence, and motivation during tasks like reading, writing, and problem-solving.
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Improves focus and participation in lessons.
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Encourages reluctant readers through shared reading experiences.
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Supports the development of responsibility and routine.
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Provides hands-on, meaningful learning opportunities.
Emotional Benefits
For neurodiverse children who may experience heightened anxiety, sensory overload, or difficulties with emotional regulation, a school dog can provide consistent comfort and emotional grounding. The simple act of stroking or sitting near a dog can promote relaxation and a sense of safety.
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Reduces stress and anxiety levels.
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Supports emotional regulation and self-soothing.
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Provides a safe and comforting presence during challenging moments.
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Enhances emotional resilience and overall wellbeing.
Why Work with Me?
As a qualified Kids Around Dogs Professional, I’ve been trained not just in dog behaviour - but in how to support children around dogs in a way that’s fun, safe, and empowering.
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I’ve worked with hundreds of families to help kids overcome dog-related fears, and I bring that same gentle, practical approach to every school I visit. My aim is always to leave your pupils smiling, your staff reassured, and your dog supported.
Available in Surrey and Nearby Areas
All in-person visits, including school dog assessments and class sessions, are delivered in Surrey and surrounding areas.
Katie with Nala.
Looking for Dog Services & Training?
As an experienced and certified dog trainer, I'm happy to offer tailored trainings to suit you and your dog.
If your dog suffers with separation anxiety, I offer customised programmes to help get your dog overcome its phobia and not stress every time you leave the house.
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I also offer adult dog training and puppy training to help you raise a well behaved, calm and confident dog.
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Simply get in touch if you would like to discuss any of my trainings or services.
