A new therapy dog is putting smiles on patients’ faces at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow.
‘Toffi’ is bringing joy to all she meets on here once-a-week trip to Northwick Park as the hospital’s new pet therapy dog. The six-year-old Goldendoodle from Harrow, a cross between a retriever and poodle, visits wards with owner Sonal Popat.
“She’s a big softy and enjoys all the attention,” says Sonal, as Toffi visits patients at the hospital.
Research has shown that the presence of a dog can have a positive impact on physiology and psychology and help reduce stress levels. Nowadays, Pets As Therapy dogs support patients in hospitals and visit retirement and nursing homes, hospices, schools, colleges and universities, and even courtrooms. They can be really good for your overall health and well-being.
In addition, multiple studies have found that being around animals, especially dogs, can improve moods and reduce the risk of developing depression. Other studies have found that dogs in particular can support decreasing feelings of anxiety and sadness as well as increasing physical activity.
So what’s the way to Toffi’s heart? “Cheddar cheese. Extra strong”, added her owner Sonal.
Read more news about Northwick Park Hospital.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
