We have a new entertainer called Theo! Sheila is a health care assistant and she brings her dog to our home: Sheila cycles in while Theo runs alongside her so by the time they make it to the home, Theo is ready for a rest. There is a lot of positive feedback with regards pet therapy and Theo is another huge evidence for this. We have found over the last few trials that Theo is incredibly calming for the residents and actually makes a difference to their well-being and happiness. We have some examples where some residents can be unsettled and anxious. When Theo sits near them, you can actually see them smile and getting involved in looking after him. In other words, Theo gives them a sense of purpose and warmth as they get involved and keep an eye on him. Needless to say that Theo also brings a lot of happiness to the staff too and the home feels even more homely. Theo has been fully risk assessed and is of a beautifully calm nature. Theo’s access is restricted to corridors and communal lounges.
