A Woofin’ Good Time at Arcare Aged Care’s Take Your Dog to Work Day

10-year-old Jessie is a Stumpy Tail Cattle dog brought into the Arcare Castlemaine (VIC) residence by Lifestyle Coordinator Peta.

Jessie visits regularly and always stays close to his mum, but when a resident is needing comfort and assurance, Jessie is more than happy to accompany them.

Besides visiting residents, she also enjoys walks in the gardens and going to the movies with her extended family here.

Residents and team members at Arcare Helensvale (QLD) were surprised with a visit from 11-month-old Labradoodle Bailey.

His first visit to the residence took place when he was only 4 months old.

"He is the most beautiful dog; I wish he could visit all the time," a resident commented.

"He is very gentle, smart and fluffy; making him a great companion to the residents. Some have suggested that they would like to spend more one-to-one time with Bailey,"

The community loved his visit so much that Enrolled Nurse Emma has already promised to bring him in again.

18-month-old Golden Retriever Dazzler has been coming to Arcare Knox and The Lodge (VIC) since he was eight weeks old. He visits the residents every weekend with Lifestyle Coordinator Lee and even attends lifestyle activities and resident meetings.

Dazzler is gentle and loving and is very much loved by the residents at Arcare Knox.

Team members are also big fans of Dazzler as he makes everyone smile when he goes around the residence like it's his second home.

"He is very much part of our team here at Arcare Knox," a team member commented.

Clinical Lead Lib also brought in her 3-year-old Whippet Curly for his first visit to the residence.

Arcare Noosa (QLD) held their very own Pet Parade to celebrate Take Your Dog to Work Day.

15 dogs walked down the runway and in preparation for the event, residents Anne, CC, Kaye, Jean, Jeanette, Marion, Bonnie, Malcolm, Sandy and Carolyn handmade yummy dog treats consisting of peanut butter and honey.

"It was wonderful having all the dogs come to our home for the Pet Parade; it was such a happy day for all the residents," Resident Carolyn said.

Residence Manager Laura-Jo who also brought her dog Harry in, shared with us, "It was such a wonderful turnout of residents, some choosing to even watch from their balconies with a cup of tea. We had residents who rarely choose to attend events that came and thoroughly enjoyed the Pet Parade. There were smiles all around from so many happy residents."

Residence Manager Glenn brings in his little 2-year-old Dachshund Libbi to the Arcare Oatlands community (NSW) once a month.

Now, Libbi feels very at home with the residents and team members.

Resident Jill used to own Dachshunds and is one of Libbi's biggest fans as they always spend time together when she visits.

Resident Arthur's daughter said, “Dad had a dachshund named Dachy for 10 years; seeing Libbi gave Dad a smile - I haven’t seen him smile so much for years”.

Meanwhile in Arcare Pimpama (QLD), Receptionist Tyler brought in her 8-month-old Staffy and Cattle cross Rufus for a visit.This playful puppy was a bundle of energy as they went around saying hi to residents and team members.

"I've had dogs all my life and I just love them. I used to have one like Rufus," resident Noeleen said.

To add to the pawsome day, Residence Manager Vicki also brought along her Dachshunds Cheerio and Coco.

"Pets are really great companions and we find that they are very therapeutic. Our residents started reminiscing about their own dogs and team members were sharing stories," Vicki said.

Resident Di in particular has bonded very closely with Coco. Her mood is lifted and her demeanour is calm when she pats Coco.

While some prefer the companion of robotic pet animals, such as resident Lynette who has her own robotic dog named Rover whom she adores.

13-month-old Bulldog Archie has been visiting Arcare Templestowe (VIC) since he was a puppy. Lifestyle Assistant Damien brought him in throughout the lockdowns to bring some joy to the residents.

Damien makes it a point to visit residents in our Surpells community as he used to be a Personal Support Worker there and would bring Archie in on his days off.

During lockdown, resident Barbara did her best to train him as puppy schools were closed for some time. As a result, they have developed a very special bond.

Barbara has treats in her room which she uses to teach Archie to sit. Since he was a puppy, they have spent almost an hour in her suite every weekend.

"Nothing makes me happier than having a visit from our four-legged friends; they make all the difference to our wellbeing and it feels like home with a pet around," Barbara said.

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