Abstract:

The GUAUFIT project is presented as a Service-Learning (S-L)–based educational proposal that integrates Physical Education with social awareness actions related to animal welfare in secondary education. The proposal responds to the need to address animal abandonment and irresponsible ownership through meaningful pedagogical experiences, positioning sport practice as a potential tool for social transformation.

The main objectives of the proposal are twofold: to promote empathy and responsible attitudes towards animal welfare, and to foster students’ physical, social, and organisational competencies through the practice of canicross. The model is designed to be developed over a four-week period and is structured into two phases. The first phase focuses on theoretical–practical training, including basic canicross techniques, effort regulation, safety principles, and introductory concepts related to biomechanics, alongside awareness-raising activities on responsible adoption. The second phase proposes the student-led organisation of a solidarity event (1 km walk / 3 km canicross) in collaboration with a local animal protection organisation.

The proposal includes an evaluation framework based on rubric-guided assessment of technical performance and teamwork, as well as a reflection questionnaire aimed at analysing students’ perceived learning and value acquisition. From a pedagogical perspective, GUAUFIT is conceived as a replicable model that links Physical Education with ethical education and social commitment. The proposal highlights the potential of solidarity-based canicross as a health-promoting activity and as a catalyst for value education and attitudinal development in secondary school students.

Keywords:

Service-Learning, canicross, social Awareness, Physical Education, responsible adoption, competencies.