Sunni the spaniel visits Mackay Ozcare aged care residents

Sunni the cocker spaniel is working wonders for the mental and physical health of Mackay aged care residents who look forward to her weekly visits

Her tail excitedly wags back and forth as she darts between each resident saying hello and in return getting an oh-so-good scratch on her back.

But as much as Sunni the seven-year-old gold cocker spaniel is having a great time, the seniors who look forward to this day each week are having even more fun.

Sunni, belonging to Paws N Effect owner Roslyn Ballantine, is part of Ozcare Mackay Aged Care Facility’s new pet visitation program, sponsored by Woollam Constructions, to strengthen residents’ mental and physical wellbeing.

Paws N Effect owner Roslyn Ballantine with care dog Sunni the spaniel and resident Colin Bell. Picture: Heidi Petith

Colin Bell, 97, said she brought back special memories from his childhood when his family had a spaniel.

“(Sunni’s) marvellous,” Mr Bell said.

Elvie Fawcett looks forward to the weekly visit from Sunni the spaniel at Ozcare Mackay Aged Care Facility. Picture: Heidi Petith

Elvie Fawcett, 82, said Sunni’s visits brought them joy with more residents joining in every week including two fellows who had previously kept to themselves.

“That was the first time they’d come out of their rooms,” Ms Fawcett said.

Sunni happily performed a variety of tricks much to the delight of residents at the West Mackay Ozcare Mackay Aged Care Facility. Picture: Heidi Petith

Ms Ballantine said Sunni also loved visiting dementia wing residents and lapping up all the pats.

“It is well known and scientifically proven that the interaction with a gentle, friendly pet has significant benefits in lifting spirit and lessening depression,” Ms Ballantine said.

“Sunni provides comfort and helps with anxiety and loneliness through her sessions.”

Residents John Anderson and Colin Bell with facility manager Anne Crowley enjoying a visit from Sunni the spaniel at Ozcare Mackay Aged Care Facility. Picture: Heidi Petith

Ozcare facility manager Anne Crowley said the therapy sessions reduced stress hormones.

“And for seniors who have had to leave beloved pets behind to go into aged care, the therapy sessions with Sunni are not only fun but also good for their mental health,” Ms Crowley said.

Paws N Effect owner Roslyn Ballantine with care dog Sunni the spaniel performing tricks during their weekly visit to residents at Ozcare Mackay Aged Care Facility. Picture: Heidi Petith

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Woollam managing director Craig Percival said sponsoring the “invaluable” program fit well with the company’s philosophy of supporting local communities.

“It is great to see the meaningful difference dogs like Sunni make, and how they bring meaning to people’s lives is immeasurable,” Mr Percival said.

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Originally published as Sunni the spaniel visits Mackay Ozcare aged care residents