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Archive 2022
Paws for thought as we have special guests join our communication tutorial
Pet therapy, superheroes,,
Early on Friday morning at the beginning of term, a communication tutorial with our lecturer Maria O’Shea lecture was quickly transformed with 9 special guests. Little did we know that the pre reading articles on canvas would be put quickly put into practice when we got to experience the benefits of pet therapy. Instantaneously, silence turned into shrieks of excitement as the K-litter of My Canine Companion (MCC) puppies arrived at our class. Only 6 weeks young, these little creatures were being socialised in preparation for their future role as service dogs for children with autism.
We had the honour of meeting Nicole and her team who work tirelessly to help children and their families living with autism across the nation! We are second year Children’s and General student nurses and we have seen first-hand the impact dog-therapy has on children both on the wards and from personal experience.
This charity has the motto “Bringing Families Together” and it is something that I have both seen and experienced. I have two brothers with autism and almost 11 years ago, we got Max. Max is an assistance dog for my younger brother and he is more than just a pet. Max has changed our lives forever. He offers comfort and calmness to my brother and allowed my brother to gain the ability to engage in daily activities. My brother was a flight risk when outdoors and in open spaces, and Max has helped him to keep him safe. This has helped us as a family to relax knowing Max is keeping my brother safe!
From left to right: Maria O’Shea, Dr Irene Hartigan and Nicole Duggan, MCC
As a class, we have seen dog-therapy on the hospital wards. It has been amazing to see the effect this has on children. By definition, dog therapy refers to the use of dogs as a way to help people cope with and recover from physical and mental health conditions. However, it is so much more than that. We have seen the huge benefits this has on children who are anxious and scared to be in hospital. It provides comfort and a distraction, whilst also increasing mood and general well-being. Dog therapy can also help to increase movements and social interactions through walks and play – which can lead to decreasing anxiety and stress.
My Canine Companion (MCC) are a registered Irish charity founded in June 2011. MCC are internationally accredited by Assistance Dogs International and are Irelands largest provider of service/assistance dogs to children and young adults with disabilities. MCC also provide therapy and awareness services to thousands of people annually around the country through our schools, hospitals, and elderly therapy services. A special thank you to Dr Irene Hartigan, Lecturer, and Nicole Duggan, MCC Events and Content Manager for making this visit happen. Thank you to Maria O’Shea for giving us the opportunity to share in the benefits of canine therapy during our tutorial. Also, for encouraging me to write this news item, semester one is off to a good start.
Sinead Murphy, Year 2 students, Children’s and Integrated Nursing