Derian House Children's Hospice is looking for a new therapy dog to bring smiles to poorly children.
The children's charity, based in Astley Village, Chorley, needs a 'friendly, cuddly, and calm' dog to join its team of volunteers.
This comes after the retirement of Tallulah, the therapy Labradoodle.
The new four-legged volunteer will join Shuna, the German shorthaired pointer, in providing physical, emotional, and social support to families at the hospice.
The therapy dogs spend just a couple of hours each week at the hospice.
The benefits of therapy dogs are well-documented, with studies showing that petting a dog can 'reduce stress and have a calming effect.'
The children at the hospice enjoy stroking the dogs' soft ears and even take them for walks around the hospice corridors.
Shuna, a certified Pets as Therapy (PAT) dog, has been visiting Derian House with her owners Linda and Phil Martlew for six years.
Ms Martlew said: "Shuna loves coming to Derian House.
"She always gets a lot of cuddles and strokes, and the children and young people love her."
Frances Lees, volunteer services coordinator at Derian House, said: "We’re on the hunt for our new therapy pup – does your dog have what it takes?
"A simple cuddle or a wagging tail can bring a smile to a child's face, and we’re hoping to find a dog who’s ready to join our team of incredible volunteers to help make a real difference.
“We welcome all kinds of volunteers at Derian House."
Derian House, based in Chorley, cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people, and their families from across the North West.
Pets and their owners interested in volunteering must register and receive full certification from the Pets as Therapy (PAT) charity.
More information about the Pets as Therapy volunteer role can be found on the Derian House careers website.
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