Goulburn West Public School to unveil assistance dog Sasha for students

She's an assistance dog.

The 18-month-old Labrador arrived during the school holidays and has settled in well.

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Her primary handler and Goulburn West Public School teacher Bron Livesey will take her home every night.

She said Sasha would be a welcome addition to the school.

"We started the process just over two years ago," Ms Livesey said.

"With the increase of child anxiety, the refusal to come to school and difficulties with learning, we had a look at the research on the effect of having assistance dogs at school.

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"The benefits helped us make the decision."

Sasha has completed all of her training, but the staff have not due to COVID-19.

They will be able to work through the theory sessions via Zoom sessions, but as the practical ones are held at the National Training Centre for Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA), that is on hold.

For now, Sasha has been spending her days in the school office and has made small appearances on her way around the school.

She is getting to know the sights, the smells and the noises of the school.

Ms Livesey said Sasha would be at the school for the next eight to 10 years.

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"The lifespan of an assistance dog is usually between eight and 10 years," she said.

"From eight years, the ADA will assess her to see whether she's still fulfilling her needs and that her health is alright."

Sasha will receive a free wash once a month thanks to Kayla Webb who recently started her own parlour Jim's Dog Wash and Grooming.

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