Should Schools Have Support Animals?

By Amy Albitres

Support animals call many students as they stress with their classwork. Students need a break and time to think about themselves for a moment. They need a time to just simply relax and ignore everything going on in the world. 

What even are support animals? Support animals are animals who provide therapeutic methods in order to calm you down and make you feel better. Their cuddles, warmth, and fuzzy fur has no doubt but to help you when you’re feeling upset! 

Support animals can vary depending on which one you feel more connected to. Support animals are mainly found to be dogs. However, birds, cats, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, and monkeys can also be support animals. 

Support animals can impact staff and students by providing them with emotional support and a sense of companionship. These animals are found to help with certain mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. They are also seen to help with different phobias that many may be suffering with.

Animals or pets are a calm way to relax and make a new friend with. Support animals can help students focus on their classes, as well as have someone to play and have a great time with. Being supported by a warm, furry friend will always have a great impact on many.

“I think having support animals is a great option for people that struggle with their mental health. They provide a sensory experience and they tend to be associated with security and love which we need in our daily lives. Many students struggle expressing themselves properly and a support animal in our school can provide solace to those who struggle and need the comfort of a fluffy friend,” said Jackeline Gallegos (‘25).

“I would really like to have a support animal since I’m constantly stressed. If I had a cat or dog with me right now I’d 100% go pet it instead of stressing right now,” said Alexandra Morgan (‘26). 

“I think that as long as people aren’t scared or severely allergic to the animals itselves [sic] then it’s more than fine to me,” said Daria Dimattia (‘25).

Now that all has been stated, what do you think? Should Westhill provide students with these animals to support us when we feel down?