Establishments
Where We Visit – Bringing Comfort Where It’s Needed Most
Establishments
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.
Therapy Dogs Nationwide provides valuable emotional support in a wide range of settings
From hospitals to schools, care homes to courts, and everything in between. Our dogs and their volunteer handlers are trained, insured, and temperament-assessed, ensuring a safe, structured experience for everyone involved.
We visit places where a calm, friendly dog can make a real difference. A therapy dog visit may ease nerves before surgery, encourage a child to read out loud, or offer quiet comfort to someone feeling alone. We’re proud to work with health services, educational professionals, social care teams, and the justice system across the UK to deliver meaningful, memorable moments.
Wherever we go, the smiles speak for themselves.
Safe, Responsible, Trusted
Every TDN volunteer and dog is carefully assessed to make sure visits are safe, calm, and appropriate. We follow clear guidelines, work closely with each establishment, and always respect your policies and preferences. Our team is fully insured, and our dogs are health-checked, well-mannered, and happy to meet new people. You’re in safe hands (and paws).
Always Free to Use
Therapy Dogs Nationwide visits are completely free at the point of use.
We never charge for our services—ever. We believe that everyone should have access to the comfort, connection, and companionship a therapy dog can bring.
But while visits are free, they are not free to provide. It takes time, training, insurance, administration, and a lot of wagging tails to keep us running. If you’ve benefited from a visit or believe in our work, please consider making a donation—every pound helps us reach more people.
Want a Therapy Dog to Visit Your Organisation?
Whether you’re a headteacher, ward manager, court officer or company director—we’d love to hear from you. Our placements team will work with you to find the right volunteer for your setting.
Get in touch today to find out more about how Therapy Dogs Nationwide can support your team, pupils, patients, or community—at no cost to you.