By Isle of Wight Observer
Young patients at St Mary’s Hospital, in Newport, are set for some paw-some company, following the arrival of two new four-legged volunteers. The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has officially welcomed Daisy and Cooper, the latest recruits to join the hospital under the national Pets as Therapy (PAT) scheme.
Accompanied by their dedicated owners, Linda, Gordon, and Martin, the friendly canine duo will initially be spending their time on the hospital’s busy Children’s Ward. Their main mission is to offer comfort, companionship, and a much-needed distraction for young patients undergoing medical treatment.
Hospital stays can be daunting for children, but the presence of therapy dogs has been proven to significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Beyond helping the youngsters on the ward, Daisy and Cooper’s visits are also expected to provide a welcome wellbeing boost for worried families and hard-working NHS staff.
Pets as Therapy is a national charity that has been operating across the UK since 1983, organising therapeutic visits to hospitals, hospices, schools, and care homes. Animal-assisted therapy is widely seen to provide clinical benefits, including lowering heart rates, reducing cortisol levels, and triggering the release of calming endorphins in patients of all ages.
The Isle of Wight NHS Trust thanked the owners for volunteering their time to support local patients.
With their gentle temperaments and wagging tails, Daisy and Cooper are already proving to be a massive hit.