Toffi's pawfect bedside manner
Toffi is putting a smile on patients’ faces during her once a week visit to Northwick Park as the hospital’s new Pets as Therapy dog
The six-year-old Goldendoodle - a cross between a retriever and poodle - visits wards with owner Sonal Popat.
“She’s a big softy and enjoys all the attention,” says Popat.
Research has shown that the presence of a dog can have a positive impact on physiology and psychology and help reduce stress levels.
Nowadays, Pets as therapy dogs support patients in hospitals as well as visit retirement and nursing homes, hospices, schools, colleges and universities, and even courtrooms.
So what’s the way to Toffi’s heart?
“Cheddar cheese. Extra strong.”