A Care Dog Christmas

 News 

Care Dogs become Santa’s Little Helpers this Christmas

Tuesday, 19 December, 2023

Bath Spa University’s famous Care Dogs became Santa’s Little Helpers last week, donning antlers and tinsel for a festive video before students headed home for the winter break. 

The Student Wellbeing Services team joined forces with the dogs to mark the end of 2023, capturing them in their element as they ran, jumped and skipped while dressed up as ‘rein-dogs’.  

The University’s accredited Care Dogs have been supporting thousands of students with their mental health and wellbeing for over three years and are used to the spotlight. From showing off their best side on social media to making appearances at events, the Care Dogs are some of the cutest ambassadors for the University and contribute to the continued wellbeing of the Bath Spa community, students and staff, offering ‘meet and walk’ sessions across Bath Spa’s campuses. 

James Rumble, Engagement and Link Officer for Student Wellbeing Services at Bath Spa University, said: 

“The Care Dogs scheme has such a positive impact on students - a short encounter can reduce both stress and anxiety ahead of any academic commitments. The dogs are always the centre of attention at any event or even when they are just walking across one of our campuses!” 

He continued: 

“Care Dog owners consist of a number of staff members who volunteer their time to provide opportunities for students to engage with their canine friends. This means a huge amount to Student Wellbeing Services and the wider University. As a member of Student Wellbeing Services, I always love having a Care Dog in the office. This is also a good opportunity to thank all our owners and their lovely companions for all their hard work and time.” 

After launching in partnership with Canine Concern – a charity that specialises in bringing joy and reassurance to the lives of those who need it most – the Care Dog family has continued to grow, now the pet therapy scheme has a pack of pups, prepared to alleviate stress and offer a supportive paw. 

The shoot took place in the University’s beautiful Italian Gardens at its Newton Park campus and culminated in a festive montage of the dogs doing what they do best - spreading joy.  

Emma Weskin, Accessibility Advisor in Student Wellbeing Services Team and proud owner of our VC Award-winning Care Dog of the Year, Georgie, said: 

“Georgie and I really enjoyed our little Christmas filming session. I may be biased, as her dog mum, but I think Georgie does such a fabulous job and rocked the tinsel and reindeer antlers look. We loved seeing the final video.” 

Visit Bath Spa University’s Instagram to watch the final video and to find out more about the Care Dog scheme, visit their webpage.