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Occupational therapist praises canine helper

Friday 4th September 2009

An occupational therapist has praised the work of a canine assistant.

According to Jenni Hart from mental health facility the Kingsley Unit in Winchester, animals can have a beneficial effect on patients' wellbeing.

She made her comments in reference to a dog named Charlie, who visits the unit with his owner each week.

The cocker spaniel is particularly friendly, a quality which his owner, Nicky Gent, believes makes him perfect for the role.

She signed him up with the Pets as Therapy charity, which provides temperament-assessed and vaccinated dogs and cats to hospitals and care centres around the UK.

Ms Hart stated: "Some patients who are isolated and withdrawn often start to open up and relax and it has a lasting benefit on their wellbeing long after an animal has visited."

Meanwhile, Ms Gent added that Charlie, who was originally going to be a gun dog, always manages to make patients smile and he loves the attention he receives.

Written by James Puckle