A new four-legged friend with a wagging tail will be helping patients' recovery in hospital.

Golden retriever Yazzy has just started a as a new therapy dog at Medway Maritime Hospital, in Windmill Road, Gillingham.

The four-year-old canine and his owner, Janice McCauley, represent national charity Pets As Therapy (PAT), and have been visiting wards across the hospital, helping to reduce anxiety and stress in patients, visitors and staff.

Mrs McCauley said: “It’s clear that therapy dogs can have a very positive and beneficial effect on the wellbeing of patients, which is why I’m so proud to visit Medway Maritime Hospital with Yazzy every week.

"On a typical day we walk onto the ward, and once we are able to get through all the excited nurses and the doctors, we speak to patients and visitors, who love spending time with Yazzy.

"The patients really adore him, particularly on the children’s ward; their faces light up and it’s really rewarding to see how happy and smiley they all become.’’

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As well as trotting round the hospital, Yazzy also is an assistance dog to Janice’s husband Liam, and is an ambassador for The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, helping to raise funds for the charity.

Medway NHS Foundation Trust Chief Executive, James Devine, said:"We are extremely grateful to Janice and Yazzy for their efforts, and taking the time out to volunteer and spread cheer across our hospital.

"Therapy animals like Yazzy make a real difference to our patients, bringing comfort and happiness to them during what can be a stressful time."

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