Since the start of the year, patients and staff at Epworth Eastern and Epworth Richmond have been experiencing the benefits of pet therapy through a partnership with Lort Smith, Australia's leading provider of Animal-Assisted Support Programs.
The science is clear: interacting with therapy animals can profoundly impact physical and emotional wellbeing. Research shows that spending time with therapy dogs can reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels while boosting oxytocin—a hormone associated with calm and connection. These benefits extend to reducing anxiety, improving mood, and even alleviating pain.
Karen Gregory, ICU ANUM at Epworth Eastern, sees the effects first hand. "Patients who interact with therapy dogs often feel an immediate sense of calm. It's amazing to watch their faces light up—it's like the dogs create a moment of normalcy in what can be a very stressful environment," Karen shared. "For our staff, too, these visits are a breath of fresh air. Taking a few minutes with a friendly dog can make a tough day feel that little bit easier."
The partnership between Epworth and Lort Smith highlights the shared commitment of both not-for-profit organisations to community wellbeing. Lort Smith's Pet Therapy program has a 37-year history of providing support through animal-assisted interventions in hospitals, care facilities, and community settings.
The Epworth Medical Foundation has stepped in to support the initiative with an annual donation, helping ensure the program remains sustainable.
The impact of pet therapy was recently captured by Channel 9 News, who filmed the program in action at Epworth. The segment highlights the profound effect therapy dogs have on patients and staff alike, showcasing the healing power of animals in a hospital setting.
You can watch the Channel 9 News story here
