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Care homes celebrate therapeutic value of dogs
The care home says Geraldine always brings a smile to residents' faces.
HC-One Care Homes marked International Dog Day.

A group of care homes has marked International Dog Day (Monday, 26 August) by sharing how dogs have helped its residents and staff.

HC-One Care Homes, which manages care homes across the UK, invites certain dogs for visits into its care homes and has seen the therapeutic effect it has had on residents and staff.

The group’s Coventry-based care home, Victoria Mews, is frequently visited by one-year-old Shorkie (Shih Tzu and Yorkshire terrier) Geraldine. Geraldine attends the care home with her owner, Victoria Mews home manager Michael David.

Geraldine has been visiting the care home since she was 10 weeks old and has quickly become relaxed in her role.

The care home says that Geraldine enjoys interacting with the residents that give her attention. It says that she appears to know when people are upset and is soon able to bring a smile to their faces.

Many of Victoria Mews’ residents had previously owned dogs, so spending time with Geraldine also brings back memories of their past experiences. She even has a fan club among the residents’ relatives, who knit her bows and little hats.

Janis Baylis, a resident at the care home, said: “I miss my dog and when I moved into a care home before here, I had to rehome my dog. Seeing Geraldine makes me think of my dog and brings back happy memories.”

HC-One Care Homes states that it believes dogs in care homes can offer many benefits to elderly residents. It suggests that the presence of dogs improves wellbeing, provides companionship and facilitates social interactions. It has also made an impact on the wellbeing of its staff.

The group has similar initiatives in its care homes in Birmingham, Pontefract and Blacon.

Mr David said: “My Geraldine attends the home regularly. Geraldine has impacted so much on residents’ wellbeing, This could just be dog therapy or just playing with a ball in the lounge.

“Geraldine has also impacted our colleague wellbeing. When staff are feeling stressed or low, they will often take five minutes out with the dog, and this picks them back up.”

Images © HC-One Care Homes

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.