Doncaster Canine Therapy is an organisation founded by Debbie Holding born after over ten years experience with PAT Dogs at St. Catherine's Hospital and also working with dog phobic children at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

Debbie assesses potential PAT Dogs from all over Yorkshire and it is one of her aims and ambitions that more of these marvellous dogs be available to carry on the good work that has been started. She herself has owned four PAT dogs during this time, two of which were German Shepherds.

Debbie has a good proven track record with dealing with phobic children and assisting them in overcoming or dealing with their fear of dogs. This is often alien to dog lovers as people or children who are frightened or just do not like dogs are difficult for us to comprehend. It is her goal to expand this service and to train people in the future to be able to help in this specialised field.

Dogs can be a great therapy for patients and people of all ages and from all walks of life who have varying disabilities either physical or mental. The rewards that are reaped by the dog owner is tremendous when their dog forms a close and personal bond with a particular patient and then helps that person either be more assertive, calmer or just generally happier.

The formation of a flyball team will provide visual therapy for the clients of St. Catherine's with a futuristic view of eventually some of the clients actually handling the more laid back dogs. Phobic children will also benefit from the displays and our organisation has the backing of the Child & Family Mental Health Unit at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

Once children can experience first hand dogs playing and enjoying themselves doing a sport that can have some input from the sidelines be it shouts of encouragement or collecting balls they start to feel elements of trust that previously were not there. This is not an overnight cure nor an easy straightforward road but it is most rewarding.

It is the aim of the club to promote therapy dogs and to increase their numbers throughout Doncaster and surrounding districts as the demand for them is far greater than the supply. This is due to owners not being aware of the scheme or what it entails.

A therapy dog does not have to be 100% obedient but he does have to be under control. They usually have a laid back nature and want to please you. Quieter dogs are good for nursing homes and also to use with phobic children but for a more involved environment such as St. Catherine's we find a more outgoing personality is better. How often or how long visits lasts is up to the owner and how well the dog copes and enjoys their new role.

If you would like more information on how you and your dog can get involved then please contact Debbie at k9therapy@doncaster-bellstars.co.uk and she will be pleased to help you.

Doncaster Canine Therapy and Flyball Club