The staff at Maroondah Hospital have been treated to a visit from therapy dog, Hope, as part of the Pet Therapy Program.
Hope, who is a volunteer with the Lort Smith, was escorted around the hospital by handler Steve, making visits to staff across specialty medicine and surgical wards, the intensive care unit, pathology, the emergency department and the Hospital Nurse Coordinator’s office.
The Pet Therapy Program is funded through the Victorian Government Healthcare Worker Wellbeing Grant to support staff wellbeing, ensuring that the program will continue on an ongoing basis.
Maroondah Hospital Site Director Anne Mennen, noticed the world of difference the furry friend made to the hospital’s work environment.
“We can see how staff are so uplifted by Hope’s visit to Maroondah Hospital. We are seeking to take Hope to all Maroondah areas including our satellite services as not all staff can come down for a pat.
“It’s been such a pleasure to see not only staff enjoy her visit, but also seeing Hope enjoying her volunteer duties,” Ms Mennen said.
Staff have welcomed the opportunity to decompress from the mental stresses of their work, and the Lort Smith Pet Therapy Program has been a positive addition to Maroondah Hospital.
“I had bumped into one of our doctors after Hope’s visit who was terribly disappointed when they missed the staff therapy dog visit at Box Hill Hospital, but meeting Hope at Maroondah this week and having an opportunity to pat her, really made their day.
“Therapy dogs are for everyone,” Ms Mennen said.
The Lort Smith Pet Therapy Program visit staff at three Eastern Health sites including Maroondah, Angliss and Wellington House.
