When Doris the miniature schnauzer is wearing her green work vest, she knows she is a dog on the job.
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For the past two years the pint-sized therapy dog has been making a big difference to people in end of life care.
Her owner, Maryann Keach, has been a pastoral care worker for more than a decade and since 2016, she and Doris have been volunteering at Calvary St Luke’s Melwood Unit.
On Wednesday the pair were the guests of honour at the Palliative Care North Auxiliary’s annual Winter Warmers luncheon.
Now in its fifth year, the event raises money to purchase equipment for people in palliative care.
In front of about 120 people, Mrs Keach shared the inspiration for having Doris trained as a therapy dog and the remarkable difference she makes to people during their time of need.
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“There were numerous occasions when I was working in palliative care, where patients would not stop talking about their pets” she said.
“If someone is in hospital, often they just want their dog by their side.
“Doris being a small dog will lie quietly beside patients giving them respite from everyday sadness, loneliness and fear of death.
“Therapy animals sometimes give people the chance to speak, when they would normally not do so.
“A friend in the time when there is no one else.”
Mrs Keach said she knew her dog was something special when she saw how she interacted with the young children participating in New Horizon’s song and dance program.
With the idea to include Doris in her work as a pastoral care worker, Mrs Keach decided to have her trained as a therapy dog.
After completing a residential therapy dog training course in Victoria, Doris received her accreditation.
She is now one of the first therapy dogs to be used in Tasmanian hospitals.
Mrs Keach said it was a job she took very seriously.
“Doris is such a gentle, loving little dog who, once her work coat is on, seems to take on a professional, loving, I’m here for you persona,” she said.
“My experiences at Melwood have been varied and amazing and I now believe I have found a way that gives to lives of people at a time of need.
“We will continue for as long as Doris is able.”
Jessica Willard
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
