Therapy Dog Visit and Sensory Awareness Workshop at Bellingen Library

Published on 24 November 2023

A visit from a therapy dog and a Sensory Awareness Workshop will come to Bellingen Library for an uplifting session in acknowledgement of International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).

IDPwD is a United Nations sanctioned day that aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disabilities and celebrate the achievements and contributions of people living with a disability. To find out more about the meaning of the day visit: www.idpwd.com.au

Council’s Bellingen Library is thrilled to announce an exciting and heartwarming event that promises to brighten the day of community members, both young and old. Both activities aim to provide a unique and inclusive experience for all.

Event Details

 Date: Wednesday, 6 December 2023

Time: 3:30pm-5:00pm

Location: Bellingen Library, Hyde St

Admission: Free and open to all ages.

About the Event:

Therapy dogs have a unique ability to bring comfort, joy, and relaxation to people. The combination of a visit from a trained therapy dog and sensory awareness training at the library is designed to create an environment that promotes wellbeing and learning.

This event will feature a therapy dog that has been specially trained to provide support and comfort in various settings.

Activities and Highlights:

• Therapy Dog Interaction: Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a therapy dog in a relaxed and safe environment. The dog, accompanied by its handler, will provide comfort, companionship, and a calming presence.
• Sensory Awareness Training: Our event will also include an informative workshop on sensory awareness, led by an experienced professional from Blue Sky Community Services. This session will help attendees gain a better understanding of sensory processing and provide practical strategies for enhancing sensory wellbeing.
• Q&A with Dog Handler Briana Rooney from Wellbeing Support Dogs Mid North Coast. Learn more about therapy dogs, their training, and the positive impact they have on individuals with various needs. The handler will be available for questions and discussions
• Resource Information: Valuable resources and literature on therapy dogs and sensory awareness will be available for attendees to take home as well as resources from our library collection.

Council’s Shire Librarian Rowena Sierant expressed her excitement, saying, "We believe that events like these not only enrich the lives of our community members but also foster a sense of belonging and inclusion. Through Council’s support, we will acknowledge International Day of People with Disability. We will also highlight what our libraries offer to support anyone living with disability.”

Join Us:

We invite all community members to join us for this heartwarming Therapy Dog Session with Sensory Awareness Training at the Bellingen Library. Whether you seek relaxation, information, or a chance to connect with a therapy dog, this event promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience for all.

For more information or to make a booking, please contact Bellingen Library on 6655 1744 or visit the link below.

Register Now

Council’s Library service is community-centered and dedicated to providing access to information, promoting literacy, and offering enriching experiences to people of all ages.