Sunderland Royal Hospital patients soothed by lifelike pets

Hospital patients are being given extra comfort through replica furry friends.

South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust is providing sensory dog and cat aids through charitable funds to help soothe patients during their stay.

Endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Society, the belly of each lifelike animal moves to mimic breathing, providing those in hospital with a sense of security.

The imitation animals are adopted by the patients and leave with them when they are discharged.

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