Harlow to lend emergency services staff a helping therapy paw

THE people on the receiving end of the Territory’s emergency calls will now get additional emotional support from a furry friend

THE people on the receiving end of the Territory’s emergency calls will now get additional emotional support from a furry friend.

Harlow the therapy dog will begin visiting Berrimah Police Station’s Emergency Communications Centre each week to provide an hour of respite.

Harlow the therapy groodle will help emergency services staff by providing emotional support. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Emergency Communications Centre St John’s Ambulance duty manager Lucy McClellan was inspired by interstate programs to seek out Harlow. “I thought it’d be a great idea to increase the mental health and wellbeing of our staff,” she said.

“We have mental health programs for our staff and I think this will be a great addition in such a stressful environment.”

Harlow also provides support at schools and hospitals.

NT Police Superintendent Brendan Muldoon was excited for Harlow’s visits.

“They’re humans, they’ve got emotions, feelings and families,” he said.

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“It’s a tough job, they’ve got to hear some very horrifying circumstances and issues people go through, it’s good to have a therapy dog come in and provide a bit of relief and respite.”