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Bliss brings joy to elderly

Posted on September 23, 2008, 4:04pm and updated on September 24, 2008 at 10:00 am
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Bliss the dog

Golden retriever Bliss helps St Mary's relieving lifestyle coordinator Sheelagh Baker (right) to deliver The Border Watch to resident Eldon Young.

A retired show and breeding dog has joined other retirees for a quieter life in a Mount Gambier aged care facility.

A Colac dog breeder donated Bliss, a former show champion, to Boandik Lodge’s St Mary’s aged care facility to keep residents company.

Since her arrival at St Mary’s two months ago, the good natured seven-year-old golden retriever has settled in well and has made many new friends.

She joins relieving lifestyle coordinator Sheelagh Baker every morning to deliver The Border Watch to residents - a routine which often takes a long time as residents stop Bliss for a pat and a cuddle along her way in the corridors.

To the many residents who gave up their pets when they moved into the facility, Bliss provides a much needed replacement.

According to Boandik Lodge manager Gillian McGinty, Bliss was acquired after residents asked for a pet.

“After a very successful pet therapy program with another dog at our Lake Terrace facility for the past six years, we knew how valuable Bliss could be,” Ms McGinty said.

“She somehow knows which residents like her and who don’t and when someone is sick, she spends more time with that person.

“Staff have reported that residents in the dementia unit are happier and more content since Bliss’ arrival.”

To meet health regulations, Bliss sleeps outside and is not allowed inside food preparation or dining areas.

ANELIA BLACKIE

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