Page 21 - Joondalup Health Campus Annual Report 2017

It is said that a dog is a man’s best friend and for patients on the public rehabilitation ward at JHC nothing could be closer to the truth.
Public rehabilitation patients received the inaugural visit from switchboard team member Demi Loraine and her dog ‘Beau’ in 2016-17 as part of the Ward D0’s volunteer pet therapy program.
JHC Clinical Nurse Manager Kay Turner said the enthusiastic response to the furry visitor on her ward had been amazing.
“It is becoming an increasingly common form of rehabilitation with studies showing pet therapy can improve mood and behaviour and help reduce feelings of anxiety and loneliness in sufferers of dementia,” she said.
“Some evidence has even shown improvements in coordination and muscle strength.”
“It has been lovely to see the look on patients’ faces when they see Beau. The joy he brings really brightens their day and reminds patients of pets they may have at home.”
“We recently saw a patient who suffers from Parkinson’s disease who had difficulty moving her hands. We placed Beau next to her with her hand on top and we were delighted when we saw the patient running her hands through Beau’s fur.”
A firm favourite on the ward, six-year-old Beau spends time cuddling, playing and being pampered with treats during his visits.
Patient Marian Lane, 83, said she was thrilled with her first canine visit.
“I just love animals so much. Back when I had my kids in hospital you were only allowed short visits from your husband. You would never have been allowed a visit from a dog so it’s just lovely,” she said.
Ms Lane’s daughter Lindy said the program had really helped her mum.
“The program is so good for patients. Mum has a cat at home so she misses the contact. Being able to cuddle Beau has been really great for her wellbeing,” she said.
Following its success, plans are now underway to extend the pet therapy program to other rehabilitation wards at JHC.
JOONDALUP HEALTH CAMPUS | ANNUAL REPORT 2016/17
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