News

A patient at Falmouth Community Hospital experienced a heart-warming reunion with her beloved dog, after he visited her on the ward.

When Janet Van De Voorde was admitted into the community hospital after a fall, her beloved dog, Charlie, who is 13, was put into foster care.

After staying with the Rosevean Vets in Penzance for a month, Janet made the heart-breaking decision that she would no longer be able to care for Charlie full time. It was then that he was put into the care of the Last Chance Hotel and found his foster mum, Ann Tew.

The Last Chance Hotel aims to rescue all animals, including domestic and wildlife. Its mission is to protect all animals and rely on a network of dedicated foster homes to provide the all-important home environment and rehabilitation.

“I stepped forward to foster Charlie after he caught my eye on an online advert. I was amazed at the likeness of Charlie to my beloved dog, also named Charlie, who passed away 3 years ago. I immediately contacted the First Chance Hotel and started the process to foster him. Fostering Charlie felt like it was meant to be.

“Once Charlie had built up his trust with me, I contacted Falmouth Community Hospital and spoke to April Quelch, the ward clerk, to see if it would be okay to arrange for Charlie to visit Janet. I couldn’t imagine the turmoil and worry Janet must be feeling at having to separate from her dog.” Ann Tew

“We spoke to Janet and said that Charlie’s foster family had been in touch and would she like for him to visit. Obviously, Janet jumped at the chance, although she was worried that he may not recognise her. Charlie is Janet’s life.

“Unfortunately, Janet has no other family, so Charlie really was a true companion for her. Charlie was so happy to see Janet and remembered her straight away. The visit from Charlie really boosted her spirits. He sat with her, had cuddles, and enjoyed lots of treats. We already have plans in place for another visit from him soon.” April, Ward Clerk.

It is widely acknowledged that pets can positively benefit the wellbeing of elderly owners. For many elderly people living on their own, their pets are their reason for living.

“We encourage relatives of our patients to bring pets into the hospital to visit their owner. We find that when a dog visits their owner, the person is instantly uplifted. The boost to their mood really heightens their wellbeing. The patient becomes less anxious and relives stress by stroking and petting an animal. They often also feel comforted and loved. Often the whole ward is on a high after a dog has visited; it gives patients something to talk about and share.

“I’m so very pleased and happy that Charlie has been fostered into such a lovely home and that I still get to play a big part in his life. I’ve had him since he was 1 years old, after I rehomed him when his previous owner became unwell and couldn’t look after him. I’ve had him for 12 years and although I miss him terribly, I’m so happy that he can come and visit me on the ward and that Ann has offered to keep visiting me when I am eventually discharged.” Jan Crapp, former Ward Manager of Falmouth Hospital.