How this dog is helping to care for stroke and dementia patients

[dutchman]

Willow is a new canine carer at the 'Eliot



A canine carer has become Nuneaton hospital's first therapy dog.

Willow is now helping to support specialist nurses treating stroke patients and those living with dementia at George Eliot Hospital.

The therapy dog and her owner, Lesley Caitlin, will help deliver pet therapy which brings comfort, companionship and happiness for patients in hospital or in care, especially those who miss their pets while they are away from home.

They joined Therapy Dogs Nationwide after finding about the service from a fellow dog walking friend.

"I had taken early retirement and wanted to volunteer but didn’t want to be away from my dog. Pet therapy is a way I can help others and enjoy extra time with Willow," Lesley said.

Rachel Steatham, a stroke clinical nurse specialist, explained: "Pet therapy is therapeutic and like music therapy can have a positive impact supporting patient recovery.

"Pets bring comfort to patients and enabling them to stroke or interact with a canine friend can help them find comfort during a difficult time in their lives.”

The pet therapy service is also set to be a feature in the Serenity Garden, which is an ambitious project launched by nurses at the hospital.

[dutchman]

It looks like my sister's dog!

[rebbonk]

I have a Maligator (the one on the left). I wonder if they'd like her to drop in for a few hours?





When asked if hers was a GSD cross, a friend replied "no!" Then thinking about it she added, "It's a pure Malinois, but crossed with an ar$ehole." - Owners will understand.