Therapy Dog Home Visits for Older People: What to Expect
Sometimes what someone misses is not an activity or program. It’s simply having a dog around.
What does a home visit look like?
There is no set program. Someone might pat Murphy, give him one of Kate's approved treats, reminisce about pets they have loved, ask what he has been up to — or simply enjoy having him nearby.
Some of the loveliest conversations are wonderfully ordinary: Is Murphy ever naughty? Where does he sleep? What is his favourite thing to do?
Who are home visits for?
They may suit older people living alone, with a partner or family, or receiving support at home. Limited mobility does not automatically prevent a visit; accessibility is discussed individually and the interaction is adapted around the person.
What if Mum or Dad has dementia?
Kate is comfortable working with people living with dementia, and flexibility is central to the approach. Interest and cognitive state can change — even during a visit — so if the person has had enough, we pivot.
For more detail, read our Therapy Dogs & Dementia guide.
Can we meet Kate and Murphy first?
Absolutely. An introductory visit gives the older person and their family or carer a chance to meet Kate and Murphy, discuss preferences and needs, and see whether Golden Bond feels like the right fit. There is no obligation to continue with regular visits.
One visit — or something to look forward to?
Both. Home visits can be one-off or recurring weekly, fortnightly or monthly, with package pricing available for recurring bookings.
And recurring really does mean familiar faces: Always Kate & Murphy.
Keep exploring.
Private Home Visits
Read more →Therapy Dogs & Dementia
Read more →What Is Animal-Assisted Wellbeing?
Read more →Want to talk it through?
Tell Kate a little about the person, where they live and why you’re considering a visit. We’ll work out the rest together.