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Some adorable cats and dogs have an unparalleled therapeutic power. Many hospitals are offering therapy dog services, especially for palliative care, allowing patients with terminal illness to interact with the animals and achieve relaxation of the mind and body. The Hsin-Ning Palliative Care Ward at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and they’ve invited all the wards’ therapy dogs and even cats to join the festivities.
When this doctor comes to the hospice ward to make the rounds, a therapy dog known as “Big Brother” is often by her side. This dog often spends time with patients and families. Big Brother is an important member of the hospice care team at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital. And there’s not just dogs, but also cats.
Therapy cat owner
Harper has served for about five years now. It’s strange, but cats can calm people down and make them feel at ease. So sometimes when we are providing services, the person might not be feeling well or doesn’t want to deal with the outside world, and the cat can offer them a lot of comfort.
Harper, a Ragdoll cat, has served in the hospice ward for five years, helping patients to be in a calm mood. What seems like a simple act of companionship actually requires professional training and certification.
Zoey
Therapy dog owner
For example, being touched, waiting patiently for long periods, or being given something it might need to spit out—it will do so without hesitation. And it’s not afraid of things like wheelchairs or crutches.
Big Brother, who this year is almost three years old, has a stable personality. Meanwhile, these two Chihuahuas are also quiet and well behaved. They are also professional therapy dogs. Once a month, there is a session to interact with therapy dogs and cats at the Far Eastern Memorial Hospital.
Ms P
Therapy dog owner
There was an older man. After he was admitted to the Hsin-Ning Palliative Care ward, he really didn’t like getting out of bed or walking. But when we asked him if he’d like to take the dog for a walk, he immediately picked up the leash and said: “Yes, yes!”
Lin Hsin-i
Far Eastern Memorial Hospital counselor
She was in bed and the therapy dog ran straight to her and kept licking her. She was so touched that she cried. She said the last time it was with her, it was only five minutes, so how did it remember her? Even at the end of life, patients experience the same sense of self as they did in the past.
Even though they cannot communicate with words, pets can provide companionship and a feeling of being remembered. This not only comforts the patients, but also helps to heal and ease the burden for busy medical staff.
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