Spreading ‘paws-itivity’ for patients living with cancer at Netcare Olivedale Hospital
Netcare Olivedale Hospital has introduced therapy dogs to its radiotherapy unit, offering cancer patients moments of joy and relief during their treatment journeys.
In a heartwarming initiative at Johannesburg’s Netcare Olivedale Hospital, therapy dogs are making a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients.
These special visitors, part of the Touch Our Pets Therapy Dogs (TOP Dogs) programme, are transforming patient care by providing comfort and joy that conventional treatments alone cannot offer.
Dr Julie Herold, Cancer Care quality manager at Netcare, praises the programme, saying, “These unconventional therapists, with their wagging tails and gentle spirits, bring an unparalleled sense of comfort, joy, and warmth to patients in ways that no conventional treatment can.”
Among the therapy dogs are Orlando, a golden retriever, and Honey, a labrador, who visit the hospital’s radiotherapy unit on the first Monday of every month. Dressed in their TOP Dogs uniforms, and meticulously groomed, these dogs offer tender loving care to patients undergoing radiation treatment for cancer.
The presence of therapy dogs in healthcare settings is a growing trend, with Dr Cindy Aitton, Head of Netcare’s Cancer Care division, championing this initiative. Herold explained, “Our ultimate goal is to extend the benefits of animal therapy to all our radiotherapy units, enhancing patient care and wellbeing.”
Research supports the benefits of therapy dogs, showing they can lower blood pressure, increase beneficial hormones, and decrease stress hormones. More importantly, they help with psychological stress relief, easing feelings of loneliness and depression. Herold notes, “The interaction with the dogs gives patients some sense of normality, and loads of selfless love and affection when coming for their radiotherapy treatment.”
Nancy Tshishimbi, the radiation therapy unit manager at Netcare Olivedale Hospital, has observed the positive impact of the TOP Dogs programme. “Bringing therapy dogs into our radiation unit has transformed the experience, opening a whole new world for patients. You can see their eyes light up with joy when they see the four-legged therapists.”
TOP Dogs, and their handlers, are volunteers who provide animal-assisted therapy across various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centres, children’s homes, and hospices. Established in 2008, TOP Dogs continues to positively impact the lives of hundreds of people in need.
This unique approach at Netcare Olivedale Hospital showcases the profound and positive impact therapy dogs can have on the healing journey of cancer patients, bringing moments of joy and comfort to both patients and staff.
