A THERAPY dog called Frankie has been cheering up patients and staff every Friday at the General Hospital.
The ten-year-old West Highland terrier and his owner, Anna Przybyszewska, also make the occasional weekend visit as part of the work of UK charity Pets as Therapy.
Ms Przybyszewska, who is head of domestic services at the Hospital, gives up her time after work to conduct the voluntary therapy visits.
She said Frankie enjoyed being around people, and added, “There is a mutual satisfaction from the visits. [Frankie] loves the attention and all the treats.”
She added: “Long-stay patients, especially on Robin Ward, really look forward to Fridays.”
Mick Allen, a patient on Corbière Ward, spoke to the JEP about the positive impact Frankie’s visits have had on him.
“You see an animal and it makes you feel better and forget,” he said.
“I’ve been in hospital a lot and it just calms you down and makes you smile.”
Having been a part of the charity for eight years, Frankie has already worked in other places such as Jersey Hospice and Little Sisters of the Poor nursing home.
Corbière Ward manager Ursula O’Brien said: “The patients love it.
“Days can be long in the Hospital and when [Frankie] comes in you instantly forget what’s going on.
“For people who are in pain and are frustrated that it’s taking longer to get better, it gives them a few minutes to focus on something else.”
She added: “Even for staff who are having a really busy and stressful day. You can’t help but smile when you see the dog.”
When not working, Frankie has a very busy social calendar.
Ms Przybyszewska said: “Frankie is more popular than me.
“He had his tenth birthday party last week and there were 30 dogs and 70 people there.”
