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Hollywood Private Hospital seeks new therapy dog recruits

Aug 11, 2021

Hollywood Private Hospital is recruiting four-legged friends to provide comfort and companionship for patients.

Hollywood Private Hospital patient Ian Goldfinch with volunteer Emmy Poulsen and golden retriever Henry.

Volunteer Services Manager Helen Morrell said hospital dogs provide many health benefits, including distracting patients from pain, reducing anxiety and stress and generally bringing joy.

“The hospital dogs are very popular at Hollywood and encourage social interaction,” Mrs Morrell said.

Studies have found animal-assisted therapy provides physiological and psychological benefits for patients. *

Currently three dogs are utilised on a weekly basis at Hollywood and the hospital is hoping to recruit at least another two (with handlers) to replace others, who have had to retire.

The dogs need to have a good temperament and be comfortable with people and crowds.

Ramsay Health Care has a comprehensive “Pets and Therapy Animals Guideline” policy in place which includes strict infection prevention and control measures for any assistance animals approved to visit the hospital.

“We have a stringent policy to ensure the dogs are clean, vaccinated, well-trained and screened for appropriate behaviour,” Mrs Morrell said.

“Dog duties include visiting patients and staff in the ward and engaging with interested members of the public in corridors of the hospital. The volunteer must have control of the dog at all times while it is on duty.”

Volunteer Emmy Poulsen has been bringing her golden retriever Henry to visit patients at Hollywood for three years.

“He loves the cuddles and I like giving back – it is so nice to see people smile,” Ms Poulsen said.

“It is very rewarding and makes you feel good.

“People now recognise Henry when we are out in the community.”

Mrs Morrell said recruitment for potential volunteers in a variety of other positions, including hand/foot massage, front of house, piano playing and buggy driving is ongoing. Additionally, a new role for volunteers will become available, with the opening of the new emergency department, later this year.

Training and parking is provided. For more information visit Volunteering at Hollywood Private Hospital, email morrellh@ramsayhealth.com.au or call 9346 6275.

* aacnjournals.org/ajcconline/article-abstract/16/6/575/622/Animal-Assisted-Therapy-in-Patients-Hospitalized?redirectedFrom=fulltext