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The Dog Squad is a group of volunteers who visit hospitals and rest homes in Dunedin City area with their own dogs.

Animals create enormous motivation in people of all ages and can be an integral component in the success of physical treatments. Feelings of malaise or anxiety can melt away with the opportunity to stroke a cat or play with a dog. SPCA Otago offers animal therapy to members of the community who would benefit from the company of animals. We are able to visit hospitals, retirement homes, people with disabilities, hospices and youth at risk; providing them with motivational, educational, recreational and therapeutic benefits.

The Dog Squad visits are very beneficial and enjoyable for patients, residents and staff and we receive extremely positive feedback from both hospitals and rest homes.

The visits are weekday mornings about 10.30am and weekday afternoons about 1.00pm. Each Dog Squad member visits a hospital or rest home once a month, or perhaps more often if required.

Volunteers needed

We are looking for more helpers! If you are interested in volunteering, have a few hours spare during the day and have a dog that enjoys people and cuddles, you may like to join the Dog Squad and help out with these visits.

Free – we appreciate a donation.