Therapy pets community call out

With an infectious grin and a penchant for pats, Bella is the perfect therapy pet in training.

The good-natured seven-month-old boxer dog is being trained to visit bedsides across the region.

Now, Hato Hone St John in Marlborough is looking for more furry friends to help brighten lives as they get ready to roll out the initiative further across the region.

Therapy Pets team leader Marlborough Tracey Currie is on the lookout for other canine companions to join Bella in making a positive difference in the community.

“It’s an amazing programme that involves pets and their handlers who visit rest homes, schools, hospitals, care facilities and other establishments or events, bringing comfort to individuals and groups, regardless of age,” Tracey explains.

“We have a fabulous group of therapy dogs here in Marlborough, with each of them being unique and special.”

From pure breeds and cross breeds including a corgi, boxer, a border collie and a spoodle, there are lots of therapy pets already sparking smiles.

But it’s not just people who benefit, Tracey says.

“Additionally, it’s not just the receiver of the St John Therapy Pet visit that feels the love and joy of a visit.

“It also provides the dogs with attention and positive interactions; and in our volunteers it provides a sense of pride from sharing their animal companion with others.”

Therapy pets generate a range of social benefits that contribute to the health, wellbeing and quality of life of people who receive the service.

Tracey says research has shown animals have a calming influence and can help with recovery times after illness.

When she spotted the volunteer role, it ticked all her boxes, she says.

“I’ve seen how animals can make a difference to people’s lives and I know personally the benefit of having pets to love, pat and spend quality time with.

“Not only is this a role that I enjoy but I also feel supported and part of the wider St John team, locally and nationally.

Potential therapy pets and handlers in Marlborough undergo a dog assessment by Lisa Evans from ‘The Dog You Have’ to ensure that they are suitable.

“Like our therapy pet volunteers she also provides her time to support our program, and she does an amazing job of it,” Tracey says.

“Our volunteers come from various backgrounds; have varied life experiences, ages, work and family commitments, but what they have in common is a love of providing a service to the community in which they live.

Currently we only have dogs visiting as therapy pets in Marlborough. However, we’re not just limited to our canine companions but also welcome other additions including fluffy bunnies.”

To find out more email [email protected]