Benson may be a recent graduate, but this clever canine will soon head straight back to the classroom.
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The two-year-old labrador cut a fine figure in his graduation cap earlier this month when he officially became a full- fledged assistance dog at a ceremony in Sydney.
Benson, who was trained by Assistance Dogs Australia, is their third ‘‘facility dog’’. These dogs can be placed in facilities, such as aged-care homes, schools and rehabilitation centres, rather than with individuals.
Benson has just wrapped up his first term at Lake Illawarra High School, where he works in the classroom with students, including those with special needs.
Each day he travels to school with teacher Ryan Olender, who is also Benson’s primary carer. Mr Olender and his partner Angela Bennett have adopted the highly skilled pooch, who is sponsored by McGrath Kiama.
‘‘Benson helps around the classroom by picking up dropped pencils for students and retrieving books from the students to give to the teacher to enhance the time on learning,’’ Ms Bennett said.
Benson was also a great companion and created a calming environment for the children, she said.
‘‘This minimises some of the attached behavioural problems associated with some of the students’ disabilities and helps them to stay focused and learn.
‘‘Benson also helps the students to develop empathy and care – a life skill some students with disabilities lack,’’ she said.
‘‘They learn to care for Benson by taking him to the toilet, feeding him, providing water and giving him lots of pats.’’
McGrath Kiama covers the cost of Benson’s school expenses, such as food, bedding and the jackets he wears at work and for special occasions.