top of page

PAWS 4 Wellbeing Animal Assisted Therapy

 In a nut shell?
Supporting the wellbeing of vulnerable individuals whilst sharing the benefits and assistance of a specially trained therapy dog.

🐕 How It Works

Sessions vary depending on the client’s needs and the type of animal involved. Activities might include:
  • Stroking, grooming, or feeding the animal.
  • Walking with dogs or observing horses.
  • Playing structured games that encourage interaction.
  • Using the animal’s presence to explore feelings and behaviours in a safe way.                                                                          ​

Animal Assisted Therapy
The Benefits of A Dogs Presence.

  • Emotional support: Animals can lower anxiety, ease depression, and help people feel calmer.
  • Physical health: Interaction with animals has been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Social connection: Animals encourage communication, trust, and relationship‑building.
  • Motivation: They inspire participation in activities, from exercise to group sessions.
  • Skill development: Especially in children, AAT can improve focus, impulse control, and self‑esteem.

🧩 Who Can Benefit?

AAT is used with people of all ages and backgrounds. Research shows it can help with:
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Trauma recovery
  • Autism and ADHD
  • Emotional and behavioural challenges in children
  • Dementia and Alzheimer’s
  • Rehabilitation after illness or injury

🐾Meet Ziggy.

Ziggy is a Labrador Retriever from working‑line parentage, and he’s been steadily building his confidence in everyday life while learning the special skills needed to support me in delivering animal‑assisted therapy.
​
At WelcoMe in Hooton, Ziggy began his therapy work making a difference to elderly people with a diagnosis of dementia. He greeted everyone politely as they arrived for lunch, then settled calmly to watch as they took part in exercises and activities. His gentle presence brought comfort, encouragement, and a touch of joy to the room.
​
Ziggy’s journey is ongoing, but his natural warmth and patience are already shining through — making him a wonderful partner in therapy and a much‑loved companion.
Labrador wearing his harness and searching for a hidden person

Ziggy Mantrailing

🐾 Ziggy at School

Dog in therapy dog uniform
Ziggy visits a school in Chester where he sits and listens to children read to him. His presence enables the children to relax and enjoy their reading time. He can sit calmly when the children move around him and can relax on his settle mat whenever asked.   

Ziggy has introduced the year 6 pupils to Mantrailing and Gun Dog skills, enabling them to appreciate the intelligence  and versatility of dogs when supported in the right way.                                                                                                            Ziggy enjoys working with the children doing fun tricks that show another side of his personality.

The positive effects benefit children and staff, been noticed by parents too and make Mondays the highlight of the week. 
​
When he’s working, Ziggy wears a special bandana. This signals to others that they should check with me before approaching, and it also helps Ziggy understand when he’s “on duty.” It’s a simple but effective way to keep him focused while making sure everyone feels comfortable around him.
 

Is Ziggy The Right Fit For YOU?

🐾 Ziggy as a Puppy

At just 14 weeks old, Ziggy was already showing the confidence and curiosity that make him such a special companion today. Even as a young pup, he loved exploring, learning new skills, and building the foundations that now support his journey as both a working dog and therapy partner. 💕
Labrador puppy

🐾 Ziggy’s Achievements

​Ziggy has already accomplished some impressive milestones:
  • KC Good Citizen GOLD Award — achieved at just 12 months old.
  • Hoopers Bronze and Silver Awards — demonstrating his agility, focus, and teamwork.
  • Currently working towards Gundog and Therapy Dog assessments, building on his natural abilities and calm temperament​
bottom of page