Children's hospice on lookout for new therapy dog

Tallulah the therapy dog has retired from working at Derian House Children's Hospice

A children’s hospice is on the lookout for a new therapy dog.

Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley, Lancashire, is looking for a caring canine to join its team of volunteers following the retirement of Tallulah the Labradoodle.

The new Pets as Therapy (PAT) dog will visit the hospice to provide physical, emotional and social support for children and families.

Frances Lees, Volunteer Services Coordinator at Derian House, said: "A simple cuddle or a wagging tail can bring a smile to a child’s face, and we’re hoping to find a dog who’s ready to join our team of incredible volunteers to help make a real difference."

Shuna the therapy dog has been volunteering at the hospice for six years

Ms Lees added the therapy dogs "play a vital role in what we do at Derian House and make an incredible difference to our families".

"We simply couldn’t do without them."

Children being cared for at the Astley village hospice can stroke the dogs and take them for walks around the building's corridors.

Linda Martlew, whose certified PAT dog Shuna has been visiting Derian House for six years, said: "She loves coming to Derian House. She always gets a lot of cuddles and strokes, and the children and young people love her."

Pets and their owners must register and receive full certification from PAT and can apply online at www.petsastherapy.org.