Volunteer celebrates 30 years of helping Northampton patients through dog therapy

For the past 30 years, Northampton volunteer Pat Hart has been bringing “joy, comfort and connection” to patients through her work with Pets as Therapy (PAT) dogs. 

The 80-year-old has helped hundreds of people in hospital and rehabilitation settings experience the unique bond between humans and animals during her remarkable three-decade commitment. 

A retired social worker, Pat Harte started her PAT dog placements with people living with dementia, where her visits started to make a significant difference. 

Since then, over the years Pat and her dogs have become a familiar and much-loved part of the ward community at St Andrew’s Healthcare, a charity that supports people with complex mental health needs.  

She said: “You become part of the ward, and everyone is always so happy to see you. The lovely thing about having a dog with you is that patients don’t see you as staff. It creates a completely different relationship. I’m known as the granny. You develop that sort of relationship with patients and their families. 

“Patients who are also dog lovers absolutely love it. They talk about the dogs they had growing up or the pets they miss. For many patients who are isolated and unable to go out, those conversations are really important.” 

Watching the interaction between patients and dogs continues to fascinate her. 

Pat added: “The dogs tune into people. If somebody is feeling low, the dog will often walk straight over, rest its head on their knee and simply be there for them. It’s wonderful to watch because they seem to know exactly what is needed.” 

Pat has worked with eight dogs throughout her volunteering career, all of them female Border Collies. 

“They respond very well to training and they enjoy the work. I’m on my last dog now, and I still get enormous pleasure from seeing what the visits mean to patients.” 

Beyond volunteering, Pat has spent 28 years assessing dogs, helping ensure the animals are suitable for therapeutic visits. 

She said: “When we asses we look at both the dog’s temperament and its willingness to interact with people. During assessments we check that they walk on a loose lead and remain calm around unexpected noises. We might even drop a metal bowl to test their reaction because you can’t afford for a dog to bolt. 

“A dog has to be comfortable being touched and handled by patients. Additionally, the dog’s welfare is also a huge consideration, so if during the assessment they ever show distress or unwillingness to engage, then we take that as their cue they do not want to be involved and we don’t progress.” 

Pat believes successful therapy dogs need maturity, good training and, most importantly, a genuine desire to engage with people. 

She said: “Dogs and people have this natural affinity. Generally, they need to be past the puppy stage, well trained and willing to do the job.” 

Despite the emotional challenges of seeing patients move on or leave care settings, Pat says the experience has always been worthwhile. 

“It’s difficult because the dogs and patients form very close bonds, so saying goodbye can be tough,” she said. “But it is so worthwhile. I love it or I wouldn’t have done it for all this time. So many patients pass through your hands and it’s lovely to watch them progress.” 

Reflecting on three decades of service, Pat says the simple joy her dogs bring continues to motivate her.

“We have a lot of laughs together and patients get so much pleasure from it,” she said. “Seeing them smile, engage and come alive again makes everything worthwhile.” 

Dawn Wright, Voluntary Services Manager, said: “Pat’s dedication over the past 30 years has been nothing short of extraordinary. Through her compassion, commitment and the special bond she shares with her dogs, she has brought joy, comfort and connection to countless patients at some of the most challenging times in their lives.  

“The impact of her volunteering extends far beyond a friendly visit - she has helped people reconnect, build confidence, create happy memories and simply smile. We are incredibly grateful for everything Pat has done and continues to do for our patients, families and staff.” 

To find out more about volunteering at St Andrew’s Healthcare, click here.  

To find out more information about the Pets As Therapy charity, click here.