The concept of Therapy Dogs was originally devised by Lesley Scott-Ordish back in 1976 when she discovered the trauma experienced by the elderly if forced to give up a much-loved pet upon going into residential care.
Lesley, using her own dogs to visit could immediately see the positive impact their presence was having on the emotional wellbeing of the residents. The therapeutic effects of patting a dog were impressive and with encouragement from the Royal College of Nursing, a network of volunteers with friendly dogs was set up.
Over the years this simple scheme as expanded to include establishments such as hospitals, schools, hospices and prisons.
With thousands of dogs regularly visiting, the use of AAT (Animal Assisted Therapy) has increased extensively over the years with more studies confirming the benefits of Therapy Dogs in multiple situations. As well as regular visits to these establishments, ‘TDN‘ is becoming increasingly involved in one off visits for stress busting and general wellbeing within large corporations.
We are regularly contacted by organisations who are taking part in Mental Health awareness programs and Staff Wellbeing initiatives and want to include Therapy Dogs Nationwide as part of their support networks.
We are currently working with several universities for student enrichment prior to exams.
Regrettably, for insurance purposes, we are not able to visit individuals in their own home/private residence.
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