Clinic Canines
What Is The Clinic Canine Programme?
Our Clinic Canine programme facilitates visits in healthcare settings such as adult mental health, occupational therapy, psychotherapy, nursing homes, dementia cafés and other healthcare environments. We collaborate closely with healthcare professionals to design visits that are both meaningful and supportive for those in their care.
Adult Mental Health
Our visits to Adult Mental Health Clinics have made a meaningful difference, particularly for clients participating in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). We’ve seen a noticeable boost in both attendance and engagement, as the presence of our dogs helps create a more supportive and emotionally safe space. By working closely with mental health professionals, we continue to co-develop person-centred thoughtful, therapeutic experiences where clients can connect with our dogs, find comfort in their presence, and build trust in the recovery process.
Occupational Therapy & Psychotherapy
As part of our Clinic Canine programme, we partner with occupational therapists, psychotherapists, and service providers to integrate trained dogs into therapeutic settings. These sessions support a wide range of goals, including improving motor skills, coordination, emotional regulation, and social interaction.
Our dogs provide a calming, non-judgmental presence that enhances client engagement and creates a safe, welcoming environment. Clients often respond more openly when interacting with the dog, which can aid in building trust, communication, and confidence.
Each programme is co-designed to meet specific client needs and is rooted in ethical training, therapeutic best practices, and ongoing collaboration. The result is a powerful, holistic approach that supports emotional, cognitive, and physical wellbeing.
Nursing Home Visits
Our visits to nursing homes provide canine therapy for residents and those living with dementia. Interaction with our dogs offers comfort, joy, and a sense of connection, helping to reduce agitation and encourage communication. Whether petting, brushing, or simply watching, residents often find these visits meaningful, especially for those who have had dogs before.
We work closely with staff to ensure all residents feel comfortable and included. Research shows that canine-assisted therapy can improve mood, social interaction, and quality of life for people with dementia, bringing positive benefits for both residents and their families.
Dementia Cafés
Our visits to Dementia Cafés offer a gentle, joyful presence for those living with dementia, as well as their families and caregivers. Attendees can interact with our dogs in a calm and comforting environment, often sparking memories, encouraging conversation, and creating moments of connection. These visits also provide a shared experience, helping families and caregivers bond with others facing similar challenges.
