Therapy dogs bring smiles to Jersey hospital staff and patients

Therapy dogs are helping lift spirits at Jersey General Hospital, where regular visits are being praised by staff and patients.

The Jersey branch of Therapy Dogs Nationwide, which has more than 40 volunteers, has been nominated for a BBC Radio Jersey Make a Difference Award in recognition of its work across the island.

Pharmacy technician student Finn Spillane said visits from the dogs provided a welcome break during busy weeks.

“Just being able to have a little fuzzball to look forward to is really exciting,” she said.

Critical Care Unit staff member Suzette Jansen van Rensburg said Perla, one of the visiting dogs, “makes everybody’s day” when she arrives on the ward.

Volunteers also take their dogs to places including La Moye Prison. Helen Hamilton has been visiting weekly with her cocker spaniel Olive for two years, offering companionship to prisoners.

“It’s a privilege and it really is the highlight of Olive’s week,” she said.

Ro Cox, who helps run the Jersey branch, said the award nomination recognised the commitment of volunteers.

“When you see people’s faces just light up, you know you’re making a difference,” she said.

The shortlist for the awards is due to be announced on 11 September.