Bromley Healthcare has introduced pet therapy sessions on the Foxbury ward at Queen Mary’s Hospital, Sidcup, supporting people’s emotional wellbeing as they recover and prepare to return home following a hospital stay.
The first session welcomed Atlas the labrador from Therapy Dogs Nationwide, offering people staying on the ward time for connection, comfort and companionship alongside their rehabilitation.
Foxbury is an inpatient rehabilitation unit supporting people after a period of acute hospital care. The ward plays an important role in helping people regain confidence, rebuild independence and transition safely from hospital back into their own homes, reducing the need for further hospital admission.
Care at Foxbury is delivered by a multidisciplinary team including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses and rehabilitation assistants. Alongside physical rehabilitation, the team places a strong focus on emotional wellbeing and compassionate, person-centred care.
People typically stay on the ward for around three weeks, sometimes longer. Being away from home for extended periods can lead to feelings of anxiety or isolation, and pet therapy is one of the ways the team is supporting people to feel calmer, more relaxed and more connected during their recovery.
Yi-min Ling, who is recovering from a stroke that has affected her speech, was especially pleased to hear that Atlas would be visiting, sharing that she had previously owned dogs.
She said: “It was a really lovely experience. I have had a stroke, so interacting with the dog gave me a sense of closeness and helped break down communication barriers. The staff here are so nice and very patient with me, and I would love for the dog to visit again.”
Bruno, who has also owned dogs in the past, shared how the session made him feel: “Spending time with Atlas made me feel happy, less anxious and more motivated to get better and go back home. The dog really helps you stay in the moment and brings a sense of calm.”
Vicky Robinson, Foxbury Therapy Lead, said: “Our role at Foxbury is to help people recover in a way that supports both independence and wellbeing. That means focusing on emotional and mental health alongside physical rehabilitation. Many of the people we support have pets at home, so pet therapy can bring a sense of familiarity and comfort during what can be a challenging time.”
People staying on the ward have also spoken positively about their overall experience at Foxbury, with one person saying: “The staff are always friendly, much more patient than I have experienced elsewhere, and always willing to advocate for our best interests.”
Many thanks to Therapy Dogs Nationwide for dropping by!
