Derian House Children’s Hospice Seeks New Therapy Dog

Derian House Children’s Hospice, located in Chorley, Lancashire, is currently searching for a new therapy dog. This search comes after the retirement of Tallulah the Labradoodle, and the hospice aims to add a compassionate canine to its volunteer team. The incoming Pets as Therapy (PAT) dog will be responsible for visiting the hospice to offer physical, emotional, and social assistance to children and their families. Frances Lees, who serves as the Volunteer Services Coordinator at Derian House, stated: “A simple cuddle or a wagging tail can bring a smile to a child’s face, and we’re hoping to find a dog who’s ready to join our team of incredible volunteers to help make a real difference.” Ms Lees further commented that therapy dogs “play a vital role in what we do at Derian House and make an incredible difference to our families”. She concluded by saying: “We simply couldn’t do without them.” Children receiving care at the hospice in Astley village have the opportunity to pet the dogs and accompany them on walks through the building’s corridors. Linda Martlew, whose certified PAT dog, Shuna, has been visiting Derian House for six years, remarked: “She loves coming to Derian House. She always gets a lot of cuddles and strokes, and the children and young people love her.” Prospective therapy pets and their owners are required to register and obtain full certification from PAT, with online applications available at www.petsastherapy.org.