Four legged friends spreading joy

RESIDENTS and clients of Grampians Health and Wellbeing units have welcomed therapy dogs Honey and Maple.

The 4 Paws Therapy golden retrievers visit each week and Steele Haughton Unit’s acting registered psychiatric nurse four Alisha Spedding said it is a client highlight.

“It lifts the residents’ and consumers’ spirits when the dogs visit,” she said. “It is a great distraction for them and assists them to relax.”

The program began after feedback from a client who suggested the introduction of pet therapy.

Following discussions and research, the pet therapy program was introduced and has since expanded across mental health and wellbeing units in Ballarat including the parent and infant unit, adult acute, secure extended care, and the aged acute unit and residential care facility at Steele Haughton.

Honey and Maple’s owner Jacqui MacMillan said therapy dogs help residents and clients relax.

“Honey, my five-year-old golden retriever, and Maple her little sister, are certified visiting therapy dogs,” she said.

“With their calm and loving natures, they adore pats and cuddles, and the simple act of petting releases an automatic relaxation response, promoting the release of serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin – all hormones that can play a part in elevating mood.”

Grampians Health COO Ben Kelly said it was important for the organisation to take feedback on board.

“We want to understand what matters to our consumers and work with them to co-design our services,” he said.

“This collaborative approach not only improves what we deliver, it also can positively influence health outcomes of our communities.”