9th July 2025
We’re thrilled to share that Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland has been awarded €52,000 from the Rethink Ireland Impact Fund for Munster 2024 – part of a €672,000 fund supporting innovative projects that make Munster greener and more inclusive. 🌱
This investment fuels the expansion of our Animal Assisted Education Programme (AAEP) – Ireland’s first full-time, in-school, educational assistance dog mode, designed to benefit both neurodivergent and neurotypical students.
🧠 Why This Matters
In our pilot and initial phase across 10 schools, AAEP has already created powerful change:
70% of students feel less stressed, with 77% saying they feel safer at school.
83% of staff report academic gains, including improved focus and test performance.
75% of teachers noticed enhanced social interaction among students.
50% of parents observed lower anxiety in their children.
Our model is rooted in scientific research, supported by educator training, and built to promote inclusive learning environments.
💰 How the €52,000 Will Be Used
This funding helps us scale and sustain the programme through:
- Hiring an additional dog trainer to increase capacity and reduce waitlists.
- Expanding to 4+ new Munster schools in 2025.
- Developing teacher training modules (online + in-person).
- Supporting impact research by PhD candidate Anthony Sweeney.
- Strengthening our case for national adoption, integrating assistance dogs into government-funded special education frameworks.
🔬 Looking Ahead
We’re not just growing – we’re building a lasting system of support for schools, students, and educators. Our research-led approach will inform policy, and our scalable model aims to bring this transformative work to even more communities.
💙 Thank You
To Rethink Ireland and its donors, we are deeply grateful. Your belief in the power of inclusive innovation is helping us calm classrooms, connect students, and change lives.
👉 Learn more or support our mission: