Three small therapy dogs have become trusted companions for teenagers receiving inpatient care at the St Aubyn Centre in Colchester. The friendly pets visit young people who are receiving specialist support for mental health difficulties, helping to lift their spirits and lower their stress levels.
Claire Taylor, a retired accountant, has been bringing her beloved animals to the centre for several years. The facility provides a safe, supportive environment for adolescents experiencing mental health challenges and is run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT).
A Volunteer with a Big Heart
Claire began this heartwarming work with her first therapy dog, Maddy, who has sadly since passed away. Today, she visits with Minty, Mitzy and Bobby – two of them perhaps the fluffiest representatives of the Coton de Tuleár breed, a small, white-coated breed known for its affectionate and cheerful nature. Claire helps run the Coton de Tuleár Club, and her own pets embody the breed's friendly temperament.
The retired accountant explained that stroking the animals helps to calm the teenagers and can replace the pets they miss while staying away from home – and the dogs themselves thoroughly enjoy the experience.
“They love coming here, they get lots of attention and lots of treats. We also get to meet such lovely kids – they’re smashing,” said Claire.
She added: “Therapy dogs need to be calm but fun. There’s nothing better than stroking a dog, it just brings your blood pressure down and it stops all the anxiety.”
The Power of Pet Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy is widely recognised as a valuable complement to traditional medical care. Research has shown that interacting with friendly animals can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), lower blood pressure and increase oxytocin levels, promoting feelings of calm and wellbeing. For young people in a hospital environment, the presence of a patient, non-judgemental dog can provide comfort, encourage social interaction and offer a reassuring distraction from clinical routines.
At the St Aubyn Centre, therapy dog visits are carefully integrated into the broader care plan. The dogs are selected for their calm yet playful nature, making them ideal companions for adolescents who may feel anxious, isolated or overwhelmed.
More Animal Helpers at the Centre
The three visiting dogs are not the only animals supporting patients at the Essex facility. The centre is also home to a giant African land snail named Herbert, who lives in the Therapeutic Education Department. Herbert's slow, gentle presence offers a different kind of sensory engagement for the teenagers. Additionally, the centre's headteacher, Jim English, owns Nellie, a therapy dog who regularly interacts with students in the school attached to the unit.
These animals play a vital role in the therapeutic environment, helping to break down barriers and make the setting feel less clinical. Staff and volunteers have observed that even the most reserved young people often open up when an animal is present.
A Broader Therapeutic Network
The school at St Aubyn Centre also works closely with Dedham Therapy Farm, located in the surrounding Essex countryside. At the farm, young people can help care for a range of animals, including alpacas, sheep, chickens and donkeys. This hands-on outdoor activity allows patients to develop practical skills, build confidence and enjoy the calming effects of nature.
The farm experience offers a break from the hospital setting while teaching responsibility and empathy. Participants learn about animal husbandry, take on tasks and experience the simple therapeutic pleasure of connecting with animals in a rural environment.
How to Get Involved
Anyone interested in volunteering at EPUT and supporting such initiatives can find more information on the trust's website at eput.nhs.uk/get-involved/volunteering. Volunteers play a crucial role in enhancing the wellbeing and recovery of patients across the health service.
The dedication of volunteers like Claire Taylor demonstrates how a few individuals with caring hearts can transform the lives of vulnerable young people. Her three furry companions, along with the other animals at the centre, are helping to create a more compassionate and supportive atmosphere for everyone who comes through the doors of St Aubyn Centre.
