Dr. Jodi is joined by Sarah Macdonald, founder and director of Canine Comprehension, a pioneering organisation that uses therapy dogs to support emotional literacy and mental health in school communities across Victoria, Australia.
Sarah shares her own mental health journey and opens up about how her personal experiences have shaped her passion for helping young people — especially those struggling to regulate emotions, engage at school, or feel seen in the classroom. With warmth and honesty, Sarah talks about the powerful impact of Canine Comprehension's programs, the trust they build with students and teachers, and the long-term relationships they’ve developed in schools over the years.
Topics covered include:
-
How therapy dogs help kids feel safe, seen, and supported
-
The emotional toll of anxiety and the importance of showing up anyway
-
How parents and teachers can advocate for school wellbeing programs
-
Practical ways to access funding through Victoria’s Schools Mental Health Menu
-
The joy of long-term school partnerships (and the many dog mascots left behind!)
Want to get in touch or learn more?
Visit: www.caninecomprehension.com.au
You’ll find videos, program information, and contact details to start a conversation about bringing Canine Comprehension to your school.
They're also on Facebook and LinkedIn, and happy to chat directly.
Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply passionate about kids’ mental health, this episode will leave you inspired by the powerful combination of empathy & education.
Connect with me:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Popular Podcasts
Fudd Around And Find Out
UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the National Championship and prepare to be a first round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a world-class athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!