We recieved some very special visitors at Abbeyfield Hoylake & West Kirby. We loved welcoming Tim and his Golden Retriever, Gwyl, to visit. Our residents find such joy from spending time with the pair of them, they simply cant get enough of the lovely Gwyl.
Therapy Dogs Nationwide is a national charity where volunteers, such as Tim, take their own dogs into establishments to provide comfort, distraction, and stimulation. Some of the lovely service dogs have over 10 years of experience, are well tempered and always focus on benefiting people in the community.
Using animals especially Dogs as therapy is not a new thing, they have been used for over 40 years in experience in the care sector. Animal Assisted Therapies (AAT) have been studied extensively and have been shown to have so many benefits. Results range from improvement in general health and wellbeing, increased confidence levels, improved and controlled movement and communication skills.
Volunteers and their therapy dogs don’t just visit care homes, they regularly visit hospital and hospices. They have been shown to help children develop reading skills and build confindence amongst special needs and autistic children.
At Abbeyfield Hoylake & West Kirby, we’re always thrilled when Tim and his Golden Retriever, Gwyl, come for a visit. As dedicated volunteers with Therapy Dogs Nationwide, their visits bring immense joy and comfort to our residents, lifting spirits and spreading smiles all around.
If you’d like to learn more about Therapy Dogs Nationwide or are interested in volunteering, please visit their official website.