Animal magnetism of doctor pets melts patients’ hearts

The activity room at Caritas Medical Centre (CMC) is filled with nervousness and anticipation. Patients in wheelchairs are quietly waiting for the arrival of doctor pets. When four of them approach and gently nuzzle up to the patients, smiles instantly appear on their faces. The atmosphere is filled with warmth and cheer.

Ms Fung, an inpatient at CMC, beams with delight as she meets mixed-breed pug Dr Goofy for the first time. Stroking his fur and scratching his chin, she says, “he is such a handsome and well-behaved boy!” The animal visits have become a highlight for Ms Fung during her three months in hospital. “I feel very relaxed and happy when I see the doctor pets,” she explains. “Lying in a hospital bed can be really lonely at times. When a little animal comes to visit, it feels like someone truly cares. It lifts your spirits.”

The visits remind Ms Fung of her own 13-year-old calico cat, Silver, who she has not seen since her admission. “She is like a baby — always acting cute, especially when she wants snacks. She will run circle around my feet until I give in,” she recalls fondly. “Every time I see her, all my worries seem to disappear.”

Show appreciation to the compassionate arrangement

Having experienced the pain of being separated from her pet, Ms Fung was heartened to learn that the HA has introduced a more compassionate arrangement so palliative patients can be reunited with their own pets in hospital. “When pet owners fall ill and are separated from their pets, both sides miss each other. The pet might lose its appetite, and the patient will feel emotionally unsettled,” she says. “If the patient is nearing the end of life, being able to see their beloved pet one last time is truly precious. You can hug them, kiss them, and say goodbye in person — and even remind them to live well and behave after you are gone. It serves as a final farewell.”

Companionship on life’s last journey

Volunteer Angela had a deeply moving experience when she brought her doctor pet Humpty to visit a terminally ill patient. “The bedside was surrounded by more than ten family members. As soon as the gentleman saw Dr Humpty, a big smile appeared on his face. He gently petted Dr Humpty, who sat quietly by his side, offering silent comfort.” Angela says. The patient passed away right after the visit. His family later emailed to express their heartfelt gratitude to the animal organisation and hospital for their pet visit arrangement. They explained the patient once owned a Shih Tzu and they believed he felt comforted by the visit, as if his old companion had returned to bid a final farewell and accompany him on his last journey.

Dr Annie Kwok, Chairman of the Central Committee on Palliative Care at the HA, says Animal Assisted Activities are co-organised by hospital with qualified animal organisations and more than 50 visits have taken place in public hospitals over the past two years. Thorough preparation is carried out before each session, including infection control measures and health assessments of patients, volunteers, and their animals. Designated areas are also arranged for interaction between patients and animals.

The programme is expected to be expanded to more patient groups in future, including paediatrics, geriatric psychiatry including patients with dementia and depression, general psychiatry, and rehabilitation services, so that more patients can be comforted by animals.