Do you have a friendly pet

Do you have a friendly pet?

St John and the SPCA are scouring the Kaitaia district for pet owners who might be prepared to give a little of their time to a good cause by calling on people who are more in need of visitors than most, with their pets in tow.

The Outreach Therapy Pets programme is a joint initiative between the SPCA and St John, aimed at promoting the emotional well-being of hospital patients and rest homes residents.

It also has a role to play as an additional form of therapy for children suffering a variety of illnesses.

The programme currently operates in Auckland, Kerikeri, Waihi and Thames, and to a limited degree in Whangarei, all up involving more than 300 people and 'animal volunteers,' and now both organisations are keen to get it up and running in Kaitaia.

"We are looking for volunteers with calm, friendly pets who can help us to deliver a service in Kaitaia, as we know there is a need there," St John Outreach Therapy Pets manager Jo Hurford said, adding that full training would be provided, the SPCA also providing animal expertise and training.

The programme offered animal-assisted activity and animal-assisted therapy via a variety of creatures great and small, from cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs to hens, donkeys and miniature horses.

SPCA Kaitaia president Raewyn Jackson said the therapy pets programme made a real difference to the lives of some people, especially the elderly.

"We know contact with gentle animals provides comfort and helps people to be happier," she said.

"With the support of St John we would really like to find volunteers with suitable pets to visit facilities in Kaitaia."

Anyone who might be interested in getting involved, or would like to know more, is welcome to phone Mrs Jackson on 408-1256 or (027) 296-4772.