A new therapet visiting scheme has been introduced for patients in the ageing and health and stroke wards at Forth Valley Royal Hospital. Activities Coordinator, Joanne McDermid, led on the arrangements for the new visiting scheme and is delighted with its success and the very positive feedback from local patients and staff. Ava (a sheltie) has been visiting wards A22 and A32 since the beginning of the year. She only visits the patients that would like to see her (which is actually most patients) and there is such a positive response from our ladies and gents. ‘That’ smile, a relaxing of the shoulders, positive engagement and happiness. For our patients who have longer stays, they are surprised when another week passes and it’s time to see Ava again – it brightens up their week. Ava and Isobel’s visit sparks conversation and oftentimes patients reminisce about their own dogs or childhoods or family pets. It has to be said that staff and visitors all love to see Ava too – she’s so calm and kind.
Kingsley, a dachshund, has also been visiting patients in the Stroke Unit – feedback so far has been fantastic and both dogs are bringing happiness – one paw at a time!
