Meet Loki and his owner Angela, who are volunteers with Pets As Therapy UK. Loki is one of the four therapy dogs that visit St Cuthbert’s Hospice, Durham, providing comfort and joy when people need it most.
Angela chatted about their visits to St Cuthbert’s Living Well Centre:
“Myself and Loki have been coming to the Hospice on Tuesday afternoons since February, and it’s absolutely lovely to see patients and guests interact with him.
Loki is a Samoyed and as a breed they often get the nickname ‘smiley sammies’ because of their happy expressions. He certainly lives up to that reputation, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces, not just guests but staff and volunteers too!”
“During our visits we often pop into the Living Well Centre. They always have some sort of activity on, and more often than not Loki gets involved too. Recently, there’s been a great entertainer singing with the group and Loki started howling along with them! Everyone thought it was hilarious!”
The pair also visit the Hospice’s In-Patient Unit where Loki’s calming presence is always welcome, Angela shared: “It’s incredible to see the change in atmosphere when Loki walks into the room. His gentle nature really seems to help those he visits.”
Angela went on to explain how Loki not only benefits the patients but also provides support to their families: “I think that seeing their loved ones interact with Loki can be so comforting for families. It gives them a moment of relief in what can be a very challenging time.”
“It really is a privilege to visit the Hospice, I have personal experience with the amazing care they provide and it’s such a wonderful place.”
David McLoughlin Day Services Manager at St Cuthbert’s told us:
“A guest recently told me that time with the therapy dogs gives her a sense of peace, as it reminds her of happier times with her own pets. It’s lovely to see our patients and guests enjoying time with them, they are a very welcome addition to the Hospice. ”
Volunteers like Angela and Loki help St Cuthbert’s Hospice to make every day count for those in their care. To find out more please visit www.stcuthbertshospice.com
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St Cuthbert’s Hospice in Durham is a registered charity. Whilst the NHS meets some of the running costs through local Commissioning Groups, a further £2.5 million must be raised per year by the hospice to run the services, with much of the money coming from local events and fundraising activities.
St Cuthbert’s Hospice opened in 1988 and provides care for people with life-limiting conditions, people approaching the end of life and people who are bereaved. This care and support is extended to family members and carers.
The In-Patient Unit, which opened in 2006 following a public appeal, allows the Hospice to offer 24-hour care for people living in Durham and the surrounding areas. There are 10 bedrooms which provide individualised care planned to support the total wellbeing of each person, taking into account their physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs. It provides holistic care for patients with life-limiting illness.
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