Michelle Burney, George's owner, said:
“It was great to see so many patients and staff at the Sheppey Frailty Unit. George loves the care and attention he gets while spending time in hospital and he really enjoys being stroked and talked to by everyone.”
“For most patients it is something new and different – therapy animals like George can really help to improve people’s wellbeing and mental health. It was lovely to see the sheer joy on their faces when we walked in!”
Linda Shardow (pictured) was one of several patients who met George up close during his trip to the hospital.
Linda said: “I think he is beautiful and absolutely perfect. I was quite shocked to see him at first but he was so gentle and it was really nice to stroke him – it makes a real change to your day. I’ve always had animals including cats, dogs and rabbits, and my nephew owns horses too. I think it is really important to have therapy animals in hospital, because they can go around and bring a smile to everyone on the ward.”
George's visit – made possible by The Medway Hospital Charity – comes after the Trust recently introduced regular sessions at the Sheppey-based facility with therapy dogs Molly and Hunney.
Kelly Strudwick, who is a Nursing Associate at the Sheppey Frailty Unit and has helped to oversee the introduction of animal therapy, said: “It was very exciting to welcome George today – the patients were delighted to see him and the staff were too! Spending time with George has helped to boost morale and spread cheer, showing the benefits of animal therapy. This follows recent visits from therapy dogs Molly and Hunney.
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