Therapy Dog Visits in Aged Care: What Families and Facilities Can Expect
A simple overview of what a Golden Bond visit can look like — with links to more detailed guides when you need them.
A visit can be wonderfully simple.
Golden Bond visits are calm, person-led and shaped around the resident. A visit might mean a gentle pat, a treat supplied by Kate, conversation about much-loved pets, a small shared activity or simply having Murphy nearby.
There is no fixed script and no expectation that every resident participates in the same way.
Individual or group?
Both are possible. Kate works with families or lifestyle teams to choose a format that suits the people, setting and Murphy.
Mobility & accessibility
Visits can often be adapted for residents who are seated, use mobility aids or spend significant time in bed.
One-off or recurring
Visits can be one-off or recurring weekly, fortnightly or monthly. Recurring visits mean familiar faces: always Kate & Murphy.
What should we consider beforehand?
Helpful information includes the resident's relationship with animals, communication or mobility needs, allergies or fears, the proposed space and any facility requirements. Participation is always voluntary.
Choose the guide that matches your question.
Therapy Dogs & Dementia
How Kate and Murphy approach changing cognitive states, reminiscence, consent and flexibility.
Read the dementia guide →Wellbeing vs Therapy
Understand the difference between animal-assisted wellbeing, therapy dog visits and clinical therapy.
Understand the terminology →Arranging a Facility Visit
A practical guide to introductory visits, quotes, documentation and recurring bookings.
See the booking process →Home Visits for Older People
What families can expect when Kate and Murphy visit someone in their own home.
Read the home visit guide →Thinking about a visit?
Tell Kate a little about the person or facility and we'll help you decide what kind of visit may suit.