Sunday 8 June 2025
Today as we ‘paws’ and reflect, we’re bringing you a ‘tail’ of two therapy dogs – Bella and Daisy.
Bella and Laura
Bella and her owner Laura are one of our Pets As Therapy (PAT) volunteers. They have been volunteering with us since August 2023. Bella brings happiness to the wards at West Park Hospital and is well known for dressing up in seasonal outfits!
We caught up with Laura to find out more.
Why did you decide to begin volunteering with us?
“I decided to start volunteering in memory of two of my friends who sadly lost their lives to suicide in 2023.
“Bella my dog is such a beautiful natured girl, and she brought to much happiness to them both when they were struggling and I wanted to share that.”
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with us?
I love how happy it makes everyone to see Bella especially when she is dressed up in her outfits, she’s able to bring a bit of light into people’s lives when it’s a really dark time for them. It is so lovely to see for both staff and patients.
What do you get out of volunteering?
“It gives me a sense of purpose to be able to help share how much joy and comfort Bella has brought to my life. She has helped me in so many ways and to be able to give that to others is an amazing opportunity.”
Do you have an interesting story you could share about your time volunteering?
“Bella and I were chosen to share our story at the board of directors meeting, which was a very scary as there was so many of them.
“A few years ago, you’d have never got me in a room full of people to speak, but having Bella by my side gives me so much more confidence and speaking about her is something I do all the time, so it came as second nature.
“It was lovely to see how supportive the members of the board were and how much they appreciate the volunteers.”
Would you recommend volunteering at our Trust?
“100%, it’s been the best thing I have done especially being able to share the experience with my best friend!”
What would you say to anyone who is thinking about volunteering with us?
“I would say if you have any free time then it is so worth doing, it’s so rewarding.”
Anything else you’d like to add?
“I just want to thank everyone, both patients and staff, for making me and Bella feel so welcome every time we come to the wards or wherever we go, Bella feels like a little celebrity!”
Daisy and Sophie
Daisy and her owner Sophie have been volunteering with us for two years. They visit Roseberry Park Hospital, our mental health hospital for older people, adults and young people in Middlesbrough. Daisy is known for her colourful hair bows!
We caught up with Sophie to find out more.
Why did you decide to begin volunteering with us?
“I wanted to share Daisy with others as she loves people and helps me a lot, so I knew she would help others too.”
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with us?
“It helps me mentally and it makes me smile how Daisy helps others.”
What do you get out of volunteering?
It helps me mentally and gives me reason and purpose – and I get to do it all with my best friend and reason Daisy.
Do you have an interesting story you could share about your time volunteering?
“We had a chance to participate in a trial on the Ridgeway ward, to see how PAT (Pets as Therapy) dogs can help in forensic settings spending time with patients.
“This was very rewarding for both Daisy and I, and the patients bonded well with Daisy. We gave them a photo of Daisy each and still visit the ward today as they adore Daisy.
“Also, we were able to add some more happiness into a NHS staff member’s life as we had spoken few times at NHS events and she talked of her dog passing and how she loves Daisy.
“When I saw her again, Daisy’s mum and dad were having another litter. I was able to pass on details and they ended up with a beautiful puppy of their own.
“I also found out by coincidence that she lived close to me and Daisy and so we meet for doggie play dates. It’s great to see how a dog can change so many people’s lives.”
Would you recommend volunteering at our Trust?
Absolutely! It’s rewarding and the staff are lovely. You are always checked on too so it’s nice to feel valued.
What would you say to anyone who is thinking about volunteering with us?
“It is worth it as it is rewarding and even if it’s just half hour, anything you can give is enough. It helps you and others and is good to have on your CV too.”
FInd out more about volunteering
