Longford-based charity Cian's Kennels extends its work to support sexual assault patients

A LONGFORD-based charity is helping bring comfort and reassurance to people who have experienced sexual violence, with specially trained therapy dogs introduced at the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit at Regional Hospital Mullingar.

The initiative, which introduces specially trained therapy dogs Cooper and Maisie into the care environment, forms part of SATU's commitment to enhancing the patient experience and providing compassionate, person-centred care.

Launched in partnership with Cian's Kennels, the initiative builds on a successful pilot programme that demonstrates the comfort and reassurance therapy dogs can bring to people attending the service.

Cian's Kennels is a charity that allows hospitalised kids to have their dogs by their side for that extra dose of comfort and joy. Evelyn and Enda Neary set up the charity in memory of their son Cian Neary. They bring their family pet from their home to DSPCA kennels in Dublin and shuttle the pet to kennels at CHI Crumlin for visits with sick children and their families.

SATU at Regional Hospital Mullingar is one of six Sexual Assault Treatment Units in Ireland and provides a free, confidential, 24-hour service, 365 days a year, for people aged 14 years and older who have experienced sexual violence.

The service provides outreach clinics in Longford, Athlone, Tullamore, Cavan, Monaghan, Portlaoise and Naas, ensuring that patients can access follow up care closer to home.

The introduction of pet therapy was developed after staff observed the positive impact of therapy dogs in the paediatric services at Regional Hospital Mullingar through the work of Cian's Kennels. Recognising the benefits that pet therapy can provide during times of distress, the SATU team explored how a similar approach could support patients attending the unit.

The therapy dogs provide companionship, emotional comfort and a calming presence for patients who may be experiencing anxiety, fear or trauma. Their presence helps create a safe and supportive environment in which patients can engage with staff and access the care they need.

Feedback from the pilot programme has been overwhelmingly positive, with patients describing the therapy dogs as a source of comfort and reassurance. Many patients said the dogs helped them feel safe, reduced anxiety, and provided a welcome distraction during what can be a very difficult time.

Staff members have also witnessed the positive impact of the initiative directly, noting that the therapy dogs provide comfort and reassurance for patients.

Speaking about the initiative, Nessa Gill, Sexual Assault Treatment Unit, Regional Hospital Mullingar, highlighted the importance of the initiative. “Recovery following sexual violence is about more than medical treatment. It is about creating a safe, supportive and compassionate environment where patients feel heard, respected and cared for. The introduction of Cooper and Maisie has added another valuable layer of support for those who attend our service.”

Mags Kelleher, General Manager, Regional Hospital Mullingar, added: “This initiative demonstrates the importance of compassionate, person-centred care and reflects our commitment to supporting patients in a way that promotes comfort, dignity and wellbeing.”