Therapy Dog Team Unveiled! Tali Brings Smiles To Mackay Base Hospital

Introducing Mackay Base Hospital’s newest edition to the crew Tali - a wheaten Border Collie whose mission is to simply look cute and spread love to patients in need.

For some time now, the Mackay Hospital Foundation has been teaming up with Mackay Hospital and Health Service to get the official green light for a therapy dog at Mackay Base Hospital.

Clinical Nurse Claire works alongside Tali as a clinical therapy dog team, through Therapy Dogs.

Every week, Tali and Claire brighten up the Eat, Walk, Engage units at Mackay Base Hospital, and the response from patients has been incredible. Tali eagerly accepts pats from patients and is always ready to share some adorable puppy kisses.

Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “Currently Tali and Claire come to the hospital one day per week for a few hours and for now, the visit is contained to two wards but seeing the welcome Tali has received and the smiles on the faces of patients, we’d eventually love to see the hours increased.”

Research has shown that interacting with animals helps to induce a relaxation response which in turn lowers blood pressure, slows breathing in those who are anxious and can even change the way pain is experienced. It’s also been noted there is some evidence to suggest that animal interactions can reduce the amount of medication that some patients require.

Therapy dogs can reduce stress and provide a sense of connection in difficult situations, as well as provide social and emotional support for individuals of all ages.

Tali and Claire are currently the only registered therapy dog team in the region.

Ms Algate noted that “Sometimes, improving health outcomes isn’t solely about medication.

“Seeing Tali brighten the lives of patients and witnessing the improved wellbeing in patients is heart-warming.”

Tali joins in on group activities, encouraging patients and motivating them to be more mobile. Research shows that staying mobile helps prevent functional decline and reduces the risk of falls during hospital stays. Tali’s visits are also boosting patients' moods, promoting relaxation, and improving their engagement with others.

Kristi said, “The approval process has been lengthy but I’m sure the staff and patients would agree, Tali and Claire have definitely been worth the wait”.

To find out more information about Mackay Hospital Foundation, visit
https://www.mackayhospitalfoundation.com.au/

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The Eat, Walk Engage team with Claire Cox, Kristi Algate and Tali. Photos supplied

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Clinical Nurse Claire Cox and Tali

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