Animal Assisted Therapy
The Delta Therapy Dogs Program is the leading provider of Animal Assisted Services in Australia, and we are proud to sponsor their visits to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
Over the past year we have been able to grow the Therapy Dog Program, increasing our dog teams to support more patients in their wellness journey.
There are many benefits to Animal Assisted Therapy. Patients who engage with Therapy Dogs experience a reduction in stress and anxiety, gain physiological and social benefits, and improve their communication and social interaction to help them recover sooner.
We sponsor Delta Therapy Dogs to support patients and families in Newland Ward, Mallee Ward and as part of the Paediatric Rehabilitation Service.
Cathie and Winnie with patient, Cameron.
One of our beloved Therapy Dogs, Winnie, visits Newland Ward with her handler, Cathie.
A typical day in her life as a therapy dog includes cuddles, going for walks, and having a blast playing with patients.
Therapy Dogs like Winnie provide a joyful distraction from some of the challenges patients face while in hospital, lifting patients spirits and helping to reduce feelings of fear and distress.
Sandra and Trixie with Mario Corena.
It’s thanks to the support of the Lauren Corena Fund and the Bridget McCartan Fund that we are able to enrich patient care at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital through the Delta Therapy Dog Program.
The Lauren Corena Fund was created by Mario Corena as a legacy for his daughter who spent much of her early adolescence in the Hospital’s Boylan Ward (now Mallee Ward) and Adolescent Ward.
The Bridget Claire McCartan Fund was created by Rebecca and Danny McCartan in memory of their daughter who was a passionate nurse at the Hospital.
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