Ollie, an eight-year-old Malshi, has become the first therapy dog to be part of the Paediatric Unit at University Hospital Galway. Every Thursday, Ollie puts on his Irish Therapy Dog uniform after a grooming session and spends time with the children at the unit.

The mission of Irish Therapy Dogs is to provide physical, therapeutic, and educational benefits to individuals, especially in settings like hospitals, nursing homes, day care centers, and schools. They also visit places where pets are not allowed, bringing comfort and support to those in need.

Some universities, such as the University of Galway, bring therapy dogs to campus during exam periods to help students relax.

Sarah Murphy, the Clinical Nurse Manager at the hospital's paediatric unit, emphasized that dog therapy serves as a positive distraction and helps create a more familiar environment for children who are away from home due to challenging circumstances.

Irish Therapy Dogs, a registered voluntary charity, is constantly seeking suitable volunteers. Approved volunteers and their dogs visit care centers weekly to provide therapeutic benefits to residents.

Ollie's owner and handler, Siobhan Falvey, expressed confidence in her dog's ability to excel in the organization's work. Starting his journey by providing love and support to the elderly in a nursing home, Ollie now happily fulfills his duties at the Paediatric unit in UHG.

Tracey Trophy, the Clinical Skills Facilitator at the unit, noted that Ollie's presence has had a significant impact on the children, helping to soothe anxious young patients during their hospital stay.