Therapy dog helps staff and patients at hospital

Frankie has been very popular with staff at the hospital

A therapy dog is having a positive impact on staff and patients at Jersey Hospital, employees say.

Frankie is 10 years old and he has been touring the wards with his owner, Anna Przybyszewska.

She started taking him to the hospital in January after rules changed to allow therapy dogs inside the the buildings.

She said it gave staff and patients a “distraction” to their busy and challenging days and it was “a massive joy being able to help”.

Owner Anna took Frankie into Corbiere Ward to meet patients

Previously, Ms Przybyszewska and Frankie have made similar visits to care homes and Jersey Hospice Care.

She said: “People can be sad and lonely on the ward and when the dog comes he brings the brightness and smiles to everyone.”

Ms Przybyszewska added that he was pleased that "it is a mutual joy for both him and people here”.

Ward manager Ursula O'Brien said Frankie has been good for both staff and patients

Corbiere ward manager, Ursula O’Brien, said staff started “smiling the minute Frankie comes through the door” even if they have had "a bad day".

“It just lets patients forget about why they’re here and just interact with him, which is absolutely brilliant.”

Staff at Jersey Hospital think Frankie is a very good boy