PATIENTS at Southend Hospital were treated to a visit from a special guest as a therapy dog popped into wards to put a smile on the faces of those receiving treatment.

Michele Carter, from Essex Therapy Dogs, took her chocolate Labrador Buddy into one of the wards yesterday to say hello to the temporary residents.

Therapy dogs have undergone training to provide affection, comfort and support to people in locations such as hospitals, retirement homes and schools.

With their calm temperament, they can help people in reducing anxiety levels, stabilise blood pressure and take away feelings of depression.

Echo: Visitor - Essex Therapy Dogs' Buddy and his mum Michelle Carter at Southend HospitalVisitor - Essex Therapy Dogs' Buddy and his mum Michelle Carter at Southend Hospital (Image: Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust Voluntary Services)

The smiling pooch delighted everyone he met on the ward.

Keith Parkin, medical matron at Southend Hospital, said: “Having Buddy visit us has made such a huge difference to patient morale.

“Therapy animal visits often provide a highlight moment for many patients during their stay in hospital.”

Southend Hospital has welcomed a number of therapy animals over the years – even having a visit from a miniature horse in 2017.

Echo: Comfort -Southend Hospital patient with BuddyComfort -Southend Hospital patient with Buddy (Image: Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust Voluntary Services)

Tony Cox, leader of Southend Council, said this was a great scheme to help patients.

He added: “Taking therapy dogs into hospitals amongst other places is a fantastic thing.

“They bring a lot of joy and help those with anxiety, loneliness and to enable people going through a lot of stress to feel calm through their right temperament.

“With them also going into the city’s schools and care homes, it is really useful for the wellbeing of our residents.

“It is a great initiative and something that I fully support.”

In a Facebook post by the Mid and South Essex NHS Trust voluntary services, a spokesman said: “We were delighted to receive a visit this morning from Buddy, from Essex Therapy Dogs and his mum Michelle.

“The cheerful chocolate Labrador brought plenty of smiles to the faces of patients Barrie Cooper and Patricia Woolhouse - as well as our staff.”

For more information about Essex Therapy Dogs, visit: essextherapydogs.co.uk.