Glennis Gwilliams has worked for Queensland X-Ray for over 14 years and volunteers with her beloved Irish Setter Ruby for Delta Therapy Dogs, making a positive impact on the lives of others.
“Ruby and I were introduced to Delta Therapy Dogs (Delta) two years ago. A dog obedience trainer witnessed our harmonious relationship and believed Ruby and I would be a perfect fit as a therapy team for Delta.
After an induction process that included assessing Ruby's temperament and behaviour, a vet check to ensure her health and well-being, and training on conducting therapy sessions, Ruby and I officially became part of the Delta family.
Ruby is a seven-year-old Irish Setter with a fantastic, calm nature. She loves human interaction, which is evident in her constant 'smile'. Ruby's obedience training background and relaxed nature make her a perfect fit for therapy dog work. And, of course, Ruby loves attention!
Once a fortnight, on behalf of Delta, Ruby and I head out as a team to visit an acute mental health ward for a 90-minute session with patients. The program focuses on the well-being of the patients and primarily consists of Ruby sitting calmly and allowing herself to be hugged, patted, and even kissed. Though seemingly simple, these calm interactions have a profound therapeutic effect on the psyche of humans, making the therapy process easy and natural. The impact of these visits on the patients is truly inspiring. The difference may only be slight to Ruby and me, but if it has created a positive memory for someone to hold onto during tough times, we have accomplished our mission.
There is an assumption that Ruby isn't my dog and that she belongs to Delta, and I am the nominated dog handler on that day. People seem surprised when I inform them that Ruby and Paddy are, first and foremost, family pets. We have found a nice balance for Ruby and, eventually, Paddy between loving them as pets and their therapy work.
The therapy work does not significantly impact Ruby's workload other than regular outings, where she receives endless positive attention.
Delta Paws the Pressure is another initiative in which Ruby and I participate. The program involves visiting workplaces as part of their well-being programs and is designed to reduce stress and boost morale. Seeing executive business staff sitting on the floor in their best business attire, hugging and sometimes kissing a dog, is incongruous. However, it always makes me smile to witness the happiness Ruby brings to others.
Paddy is a two-year-old, rambunctious Irish Setter who has joined our family. Like Ruby, I have trained him with my local dog obedience school. Once he matures, he will become an official Delta Therapy Dog team member. When I climb out of the shower and see that he is sitting and waiting with a towel he retrieved for me, I know he's nearly ready.
When it comes to dog etiquette, it's always important to be respectful and considerate. The general public often asks me about this. I always recommend asking the owner for permission before approaching the dogs. Therapy dogs are trained and tested in many challenging situations and can cope with most surprises. However, like any animal, no matter how well trained, there is always the potential for issues. So, it's important to be mindful of this and ask for permission before interacting with a therapy dog.
Volunteering with Delta Therapy Dogs has allowed me to meet the most interesting human characters and enriched my life in ways I never imagined. The happiness and joy we bring to others is reciprocal. I leave these sessions with Ruby happy and content, knowing we have made a positive difference in someone's life and the community around us.”
For more information on and ways to support Delta Therapy Dogs, please visit deltasociety.com.au
The happiness and joy we bring to others is reciprocal. I leave these sessions with Ruby happy and content, knowing we have made a positive difference in someone's life and the community around us.”