Emotional Wellbeing
Argo’s calm presence can help children feel relaxed and settled, and offers a gentle opportunity to slow down and enjoy a calm, positive interaction.
Our Nursery
Meet Argo, Our Therapy Dog
A very special member of the SPNS family.
- Fully Trained Therapy Dog
- Therapy Dog Training UK
- Safe & Supervised Interactions
- Every Child Has a Choice
Hello from Argo
A Very Special Member of Our Family
Argo is our fully trained therapy dog. He is gentle, patient and happy in company — and just as happy having a snooze in his own space when he has finished working.
Argo’s role
Argo’s Role at SPNS
Argo visits the nursery with Christos, his owner. His wellbeing is always checked, and he does not spend the whole day with us — he comes in for short visits, certain activities and to say hello. He is a calm, friendly presence children enjoy, talk about and learn alongside — always with an adult beside them. He is a much-loved member of our nursery family and community.
Why have a therapy dog at nursery?
Small Paws, Meaningful Moments
Argo's role complements our approach to children's wellbeing, communication, confidence and personal, social and emotional development.
Learning to love animals also means learning to respect their boundaries.
Argo’s safety & wellbeing
Trained, Assessed & Carefully Supervised
Children's safety and wellbeing are always our priority, and interaction with Argo is always a choice.
Argo gives children appropriate opportunities to learn how to behave safely and respectfully around dogs — a lesson that stays with them long after nursery. With adult guidance, children learn how to approach a dog appropriately, use gentle hands, respect an animal’s space, and always ask an adult before touching an unfamiliar dog.
Carefully supervised experiences also help children who are initially uncertain around dogs build confidence at their own pace. No child is ever asked to approach Argo before they are ready.
- Trained
- Supervised
- Health-checked
- Child-centred
Did you know?
The Story Behind Argo’s Name
Argo shares his name with one of the most faithful dogs in literature — Argos, the loyal hound who waited patiently for Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey. A name that speaks of patience, loyalty and a gentle welcome.