Joy at Doveleigh Care as residents welcome the return of dog visits

By Philippa Davies

14th Apr 2021 | Local News

There have been plenty of emotional reunions as visits to care homes re-started after Covid restrictions were eased - and not all have involved human visitors.

At Doveleigh Care's Arcot House home in Sidmouth, residents were delighted to welcome the return of their four-legged friends, when staff were given permission to bring their dogs in again for 'pet therapy' sessions. It's well known that residents of care homes benefit enormously from the company of animals. Pet therapy has been found to boost physical and mental wellbeing.

Samantha Evens, senior manager at Doveleigh Care, said this is definitely the case at Arcot House. "We used to have a weekly visit from a local Volunteer Therapy Dog. They would visit along with their owner every Thursday afternoon. The staff have always brought their dogs in as they know how much the residents enjoy these moments. Covid put these both on hold for a while. However, we then spoke with Public Health England and looked at our risk assessment, to see how we could make it work with staff bringing their own dogs in. We now have regular visits from Daisy, Jessie and Pickle.

"Many of the residents have had dogs in their lives and enjoy this as a good reminiscing activity. They always have a big smile on their face as soon as the dog arrives for their visit. They eagerly wait their turn to have some time with the dog. They have cuddles and also assist with giving dog biscuits and other treats. The residents will always be keen to know the next date for their visit."

Before introducing the visits of staff members' dogs, an induction exercise was carried out to familiarise the dogs with the care home environment and make sure they behaved in a calm and settled way. The visits now take place regularly, usually lasting for one or two hours, so that residents can give their full attention to their canine friends.

Samantha said: "We really see the difference it makes, the residents enjoy this for mental wellbeing. It gives them comfort and joy."