The therapeutic Pets As Therapy support programme at The QEH has recently welcomed three new dogs to its roster of four-legged friends.
Among them is Freddie, a six-year-old rescue Chihuahua cross French bulldog who is new to the hospital but brings a year of experience as a Pets As Therapy dog alongside his owner, Sharon Fettes.
Joining him is Eddie, an eight-year-old Cockapoo who started just a month ago with owner Jackie Phipps, and Milo, a six-year-old rescue Norfolk cross Cairn Terrier who has been part of the programme for three years with owner Ian Wells.
Completing the team is Terry, a seven-year-old Chihuahua who has become a familiar face to many.
Joanne Rowe, Voluntary Services Manager, said: “The power of a visit from a Pets As Therapy dog is hard to underestimate. These dogs bring moments of joy and connection that can make a real difference to patients and staff.”
Joanne shared a memorable moment from a recent visit: “On one visit that I and volunteer Ian will always remember is when we took Milo to West Newton ward. We were outside in the Dementia Garden where a lady was visiting her husband. Her husband had dementia, and their conversation was limited. We introduced Milo to them both and, as we started to move away, the gentleman looked at his wife and said, ‘I think we have a dog, is it black and white?’.
“To witness the window of connection opening-up for them was wonderful, as we walked away, they were having a two-sided conversation.”
Therapy dog visits aren’t just for patients – they also support staff wellbeing. Joanne added: “The reaction from staff is always cheerful. We’ve taken dogs into staff areas and even joined team meetings. Taking a few minutes out for a cuddle with a furry friend really helps staff reset during busy days.”
The Pets As Therapy programme is part of The QEH’s commitment to enhancing patient experience and supporting staff wellbeing.
Find out more about the therapeutic work of Pets As Therapy on the charity’s website.
Ends. Notes to editors; For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216. For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
Click here to download the full press release including pictures.
QEH Media Hub 