School assistance dog

Since May 2022, Aline has been accompanied by her loyal companion Replay. He was trained as a "social support dog" for 2 years at Handi'chiens in France and was specifically chosen for this project. 

At the moment, Replay and Aline visit the Bridel school once a week to support children with special needs. The times they are present may vary depending on the children's enrolment in Ergotherapy.

On average, Replay works with the children for 4 hours a day. But working doesn't necessarily mean that he's actively helping during a game. Sometimes it's sufficient for him to lie alongside and help calm a child who's not feeling very well, which also represents a considerable effort for him. In order to relax and be fit again for the next day, Replay and Aline regularly go out for a walk or a run to to relieve the stress.

The children's motor skills are clearly a priority and individual care can be provided for this purpose. Replay often takes part in the games to motivate the children. Certain exercises make more sense with the dog and the children work better on their difficulties without worrying too much about them.

Moreover, empathy, responsibility and a sense of self-confidence are automatically reinforced by his presence.

Replay's greatest strength lies in his patience and love for children. He gives a sense of security and allows the children to work on their difficulties at their own pace without asking for anything in return. He loves children and accepts them as they are.

You can follow Replay's daily life on his Instagram account: replay_handichien

Contact 

Mme Aline KUFFER 

Ergotherapist - ESEB (Equipe de soutien des élèves à besoins éducatifs particuliers ou spécifiques), Mamer Region 

aline.kuffer@men.lu