“It’s a Dog Day” - Our First Dementia Nursing Floor Session
- Charlotte Harris
- Feb 18
- 2 min read
Today’s care home visit was one I will never forget.
We delivered our very first session on a dementia nursing floor and, if I’m honest, we weren’t sure how it would go. We knew we wanted to try. We believed in the power of the dogs, but nothing quite prepares you for witnessing it in real time.
What happened felt like magic.
Residents who had been withdrawn and quiet began to light up. One gentleman sitting in the corner became completely absorbed in watching the dogs. One gently sat on his knee and he eagerly started counting how many there were, smiling and repeatedly saying, “It’s a dog day!” His joy was infectious.
One moment in particular really stayed with me. A lady was sitting silently in her chair, not talking, not showing any expression. We gently placed one of the dogs on her lap. Almost instantly, her face changed. She smiled.
Her carer told us this was a huge moment as she hasn’t smiled in such a long time.
Another resident initially showed no interest in the dogs at all, but by the end of the session she was smiling, laughing, watching them and even reaching out to stroke them.
It wasn’t just about the dogs. It was about connection. Human to animal. Human to human. The way people softened. The way the atmosphere in the room shifted.
After the session, staff shared how valuable this was for residents, especially because many don’t have any other opportunity to interact with animals. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and reinforced why this work matters so deeply.
These sessions aren’t just “nice extras”. They are moments of joy, regulation, memory, emotional connection and dignity.
We are now raising funds to deliver more free pilot sessions to care homes and dementia units, so more people can experience their own “dog day”.
If you’d like to support us, we’ve set up a JustGiving page. Every single donation helps us bring these moments to more people who truly deserve them. 💛🐾
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