A hospital has welcomed back some friendly and furry faces to help offer extra support to vulnerable patients.

Therapy dog visits at Medway Maritime Hospital were shelved last year amid the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

Before then six-year-old Golden Retriever Yazzy and three-year-old Havanese Maltese cross Fred were regular visitors to the wards, helping to reduce anxiety and stress in patients and staff.

But the introduction of strict hospital visiting rules and infection control procedures meant canine companions were told to wait outside – much to the sadness of handlers.

However, Medway NHS Foundation Trust welcomed back the popular duo to work this week after procedures were finalised to ensure the safety of the dogs, their owners and the patients they see.

On Wednesday, Yazzy and Fred embarked on a combined shift – and their first in nearly 18 months – to the delight of hospital patients, staff and visitors.

Yazzy and his owner, Janice McCauley, represent national charity Pets As Therapy.

The pooch is also an assistance dog for Janice's husband Liam, who has Parkinson's, and has been previously welcomed to help other patients de-stress during their time on the wards.

Janice, who lives in Lower Halstow near Sittingbourne, said: "It means so much to us to be involved and it was really lovely to walk back through the hospital doors with Yazzy – it certainly brightened everyone’s day, including ours, and we are very happy to be helping again.

"The response from all the patients, nurses, doctors, and other staff has been absolutely fantastic. It’s like we’ve never been away.’’

Fred's owner, Zoe Goodman, who is voluntary services manager at the Trust, said: "The therapy that Fred and Yazzy offer to our patients, visitors and staff is immeasurable.

"If there are any patients that would like to request a visit from the dogs, please speak to our voluntary services team or a member of staff and we will do our upmost to accommodate this.’’

Trust chief executive Dr George Findlay added: “We are delighted to welcome back our therapy dogs and we thank Janice, Zoe, Fred and Yazzy for their time and efforts.

“Therapy animals like Yazzy and Fred make a real difference to our patients, bringing comfort and happiness during what can be a very stressful time in hospital.”

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