Seniors’ Four-Legged Friend is Pawfect

For many people having a pet around the house is a normal part of life, which is why a very friendly and enthusiastic Cavoodle (a Cavalier King Charles spaniel crossed with a miniature poodle) has proven so popular at a local aged care home.

Five-year-old Milly is the exceptionally cute pet therapy pooch who visits residents at Regis Nedlands every fortnight through the Delta Society, a not-for-profit organisation that takes therapy dogs into hospitals, aged care homes and rehabilitation centres.

Milly visits the aged care home alongside her owner, Nedlands-local Sue Wood, with the pair spending time with seniors who are always on hand to have a cuppa and chinwag, while offering Milly a pat and some treats.

“Just as I have been getting to know the residents and staff so has Milly,” explains Sue, who decided to volunteer and explore pet therapy with her dog through the Delta Society after retiring from her job a couple of years ago.

“I’d say that most of the seniors have already fallen in love with her, and from my perspective it’s lovely that we can give back to the lovely Regis community and help put a smile on the seniors’ faces.”

Sam Waldon, Regis Nedlands General Manager, says the fortnightly visits by Sue and Milly bring much joy into the lives of residents, the majority of whom have owned and loved dogs in their younger years.

“The program has had an extremely positive influence on residents as well as staff, and we are incredibly thankful to Sue and her gorgeous four-legged family member for paying us regular visits,” he says.

“Milly is most certainly a big hit and already we are finding that her presence is aiding relaxation amongst residents, as well as increasing interactivity and excitement.

“We also know through various studies that animals improve the wellbeing of people and this is one of the reasons why we thought it would be good to have visits from a Delta dog on a regular basis.  We certainly all love to see Milly and her wagging tail, and she also provides a talking point for residents to reminisce about the pets they’ve owned in their younger years.”

Dogs and their handlers are required to undergo rigorous training with the Delta Society before being admitted to the program. The organisation’s world class program is the largest of its kind in Australia with over 1000 volunteers and their specially selected dogs making regular visits to aged care homes to offer the benefits of pet therapy, spend time with residents and offer a chat and a paw to shake.

Regis offers a diverse range of care options including residential aged care, home care, retirement living, day therapy and day respite. Regis is one of the largest providers of aged care in Australia and cares for more than 7,000 residents each year.

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