Animal Assisted Therapy

Changing lives through the Human-Animal Connection

Keswick School began in 1963 on a farm in central Virginia known as “horse country.” Animal-assisted therapy has been a vital component of Keswick since before the school’s opening in 1963. Learning English Riding and horse care, spending quality time with our campus cat, visiting the chickens, or engaging with one of our five therapy dogs are core opportunities for students at Keswick School.

Since 2011, we have partnered with Canine Companions and Pet Partners to provide canine-assisted therapy to our community. Our dogs support students during therapy and problem-solving, offering security and comfort. Similarly, they help students academically by attending classes, being read to, and providing comfort during situations that could provoke anxiety.  A few minutes with one of our four-legged friends is often just what a student needs to shift his mindset, regulate himself, and feel safe enough to take risks that lead to success.

student and school service dog Nitro
student and school service dog Nitro
student riding a brown horse
student hugging school service dog
3 students riding brown horses
horse and dog touching heads
student playing catch with dog