'Therapy dogs' sought for Coast

• Published date: 22 June 2022
• Publication title: West Coast Messenger, The

St John community care manager Pam Hall said the popular community service programme offered the opportunity for volunteers to enhance the lives of others by sharing their animal companions with those who reside in rest homes, private and public hospitals, rehabilitation units, healthcare facilities, or attend local schools throughout New Zealand

"We are currently looking for volunteers and their canine friends to be part of the new Therapy Pets teams in Nelson, Marlborough, Greymouth and Hokitika.

"We're looking for dogs and owners that have a friendly, calm, and gentle temperament and are good with both the very young and the elderly. All pets will be evaluated by a qualified animal assessor to ensure they have a suitable temperament and training."

Ms Hall said St John Therapy Pet volunteers loved seeing the joy their pet brought to the people they visit.

"We hear a lot of stories from residents at the rest homes visited by our volunteers and pets, talking about how much they enjoyed the experience for days and weeks afterwards," Regular affection from a visiting animal could make a significant difference in the physical and emotional health of the residents, she said.

"Animals don't judge or criticise, and they treat everyone equally. They aren't shocked by human ailments, frailties, disabilities, or confusion. They can reduce the stress and fears associated with illness...