From wagging tails to warm cuddles, a team of therapy dogs is helping to lift spirits and create moments of joy for patients and staff at Lynn’s hospital.

The pets as therapy support programme at Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital has recently welcomed three new pups to its roster of four-legged friends.

Among them is Freddie, a six-year-old rescue Chihuahua cross French bulldog who is new to the hospital but brings a year of experience alongside his owner, Sharon Fettes.

Joining him is Eddie, an eight-year-old Cockapoo who started just a month ago with owner Jackie Phipps, and Milo, a six-year-old rescue Norfolk cross Cairn Terrier who has been part of the programme for three years with owner Ian Wells.

Completing the team is Terry, a seven-year-old Chihuahua who has become a familiar face to many.

Joanne Rowe, voluntary services manager at the QEH, said: “The power of a visit from a pets as therapy dog is hard to underestimate. These dogs bring moments of joy and connection that can make a real difference to patients and staff.”

Joanne shared a memorable moment from a recent visit: “On one visit that volunteer Ian and I will always remember is when we took Milo to West Newton ward.

“We were outside in the dementia garden, where a lady was visiting her husband. Her husband had dementia, and their conversation was limited.

“We introduced Milo to them both and, as we started to move away, the gentleman looked at his wife and said, ‘I think we have a dog, is it black and white?’.

“To witness the window of connection opening up for them was wonderful. As we walked away, they were having a two-sided conversation.”

Therapy dog visits are not just for patients – they also support staff wellbeing.

Joanne added: “The reaction from staff is always cheerful. We have taken dogs into staff areas and even joined team meetings. Taking a few minutes out for a cuddle with a furry friend really helps staff reset during busy days.”