Delivered through our volunteer services, this initiative is run through Ballarat-based organisation Paws On Wards and aims to enhance the emotional well-being and comfort in a clinical setting.

Currently operating at the Ballarat Base Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Centre—including the Care Communities—the program features 10 dedicated volunteer handlers and their certified therapy dogs. Each dog is temperament-assessed prior to joining, and all volunteers are required to complete comprehensive onboarding and compliance training.

“Witnessing the pet therapy program in action is such a moving experience, the dogs bring a real sense of calm and positivity," said Leah Ferguson, Manager Volunteer Services, Grampians Health. “The dogs help reduce anxiety, provoke real moments of happiness, providing connection through compassion.”

The dogs and the handlers visit the wards and other units that have signed up to engage with the program. The proximity of dogs to the patients and residents is dependent on the comfort level, with some requesting them on beds while others might prefer to pet or cuddle them.

The hour-long, weekly visits can be a helpful distraction to ease anxiety among patients and residents, particularly when medical procedures like a blood draw or a dressing change are being done.

“Therapy dogs offer comfort simply by being present. Their gentle nature and intuitive responses—like wagging tails and quiet companionship—can lift spirits and ease stress,” said Ms Ferguson.

Handlers are trained to monitor their dogs’ comfort levels, ensuring visits are always safe and positive for both patients, residents and pets. Visits are tailored to individual needs, with some patients and residents requesting a visit and others opting out based on their condition or preferences. 

“It is an absolute honour to be given the opportunity to visit Grampians Health, and it is my hope that we are able to continue to bring joy to patients, residents, staff and visitors alike for many years to come," said Kath Phillips, Director of Paws On Wards.

Therapy dogs currently visit the Emergency Department, Paediatrics, BRICC, Care Communities, Day Surgery Unit; Emergency Department; Dialysis; Wellness Centre; and other wards, becoming a beloved part of the therapeutic environment.

The program has also been launched in Grampians Health Stawell and is intended to branch out to our Horsham campus.