As a Speech and Language Therapist in Acute Medicine at the Western General Hospital (WGH), I am always looking for new ways to stimulate and encourage patients to engage and participate in the therapeutic process (writes Ros Todd). This can be easier said than done sometimes, but I think if I could bottle what my wee dog Pippin does on his weekly Therapet visit to the Stroke Unit on Ward 50, I’d be a very successful Therapist indeed!
Pippin is a young Miniature Schnauzer and, along with his Canine Colleague, Isla the Black Labrador who visits Ward 55, they bring a ridiculous amount of pleasure, stimulate a lot of conversation and interaction, and have even helped the odd person with their mobility and upper limb movement (via lots of patting and cuddling).
Dealing with a new illness or coping with a long term condition is challenging for all of our patients, and the few moments of joy, diversion and stimulation these dogs provide, often helps to alleviate symptoms associated with low mood and lack of motivation too. Stroking and interacting with dogs has also been shown to release endorphins, lower blood pressure and distract from pain and discomfort.
And if that wasn’t enough, staff members and visitors also love meeting them and feedback from them has been hugely positive.
If you would like to know more about The Therapet Service you can contact me or contact Canine Concern Scotland Trust (www.canineconcernscotland.org.uk), who oversee the service in the hospital and to whom any donations should be made.
ROS TODD
Speech and Language Therapist, Western General Hospital
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