Back-to-School Stress? Animal-Assisted Therapy Can Help!

TALES BLOG / Back-to-School Stress? Animal-Assisted Therapy Can Help!

As August rolls in, so does the back-to-school buzz — and for many, the stress that comes with it.

Whether you're a student adjusting to new routines, a parent juggling drop-offs and deadlines, or a teacher prepping your classroom for the year ahead, this season can feel overwhelming. At Hand in Paw, we understand that the return to school isn’t just about sharpened pencils and packed lunches — it’s also about emotional wellness. And that’s where our Therapy Teams come in.

Back-to-School Stress Is Real!

The start of a new school year brings excitement, but also pressure: academic expectations, social dynamics, and the abrupt shift from summer freedom to structured schedules. These transitions can trigger anxiety, especially for young people still developing emotional regulation skills, and for the adults supporting them.

The Science Behind the Snuggles

Animal-Assisted Therapy isn’t just heartwarming — it’s evidence-based. Research shows that spending time with Therapy Animals can:

• Lower cortisol (the stress hormone)
• Reduce blood pressure and heart rate
• Boost serotonin and dopamine (feel-good chemicals)
• Improve mood, focus, and emotional resilience

In school settings, these benefits translate to calmer classrooms, more confident students, and stronger connections between peers and educators.

How Hand in Paw Helps

Our Therapy Teams are a familiar sight in schools, libraries, and universities across Central Alabama and Tuscaloosa. Through programs like:

• Sit, Stay, Read! – Students build literacy skills and confidence by reading aloud to nonjudgmental furry friends.
• School's Best Friend – Therapy Teams work with exceptional classrooms to help students develop their confidence, compassion for animals, and life skills.
• Wags for Wellness – School faculty and staff also benefit from calming visits during high-stress times like testing weeks or the first days of school.

These visits aren’t just cute — they’re transformative. A wagging tail or gentle nuzzle can turn a tough day around and remind someone they’re not alone.

Tips for Managing Back-to-School Stress

While our Therapy Teams do a lot of heavy lifting, here are a few simple ways to support your own well-being this season:

• Create routines – Consistency helps reduce anxiety.
• Talk it out – Encourage open conversations about feelings.
• Take mindful breaks – Even 10 minutes of quiet time (with or without a pet) can help.
• Limit screen time – Especially before bed.
• Ask for help – Whether it’s a friend, teacher, or mental health professional, support is out there.

Let’s Make This School Year the Healthiest One Yet

At Hand in Paw, we believe no one should face life’s transitions alone. That’s why we’re proud to support students, parents, and educators with programs that promote comfort, connection, and resilience — one paw at a time.

Want to bring a Therapy Team to your school or educational program? Learn more about our services or reach out to request a visit. Together, we can make this back-to-school season a little less stressful — and a lot more joyful.

Request a Visit