Therapy dogs will soon be joining the ward rounds at the Norwich and Norfolk University Hospital in bid to promote wellbeing and help speed up patient recovery times.

The NNUH has teamed up with the charity Pets As Therapy (PAT) to offer animal assisted therapy to inpatients on the hospital's Neurology Ward.

Founded in 1983, PAT is a national charity whose volunteers and their pets visit hospitals, hospices and nursing homes around the country offering animal assisted therapy.

Believed to enhance patients' wellbeing and help aid recovery times, the PAT scheme will first be offered to patients on the NNUH's Neurology Ward.

Sally Dyson, voluntary services manager at the NNUH, explained why the hospital had decided to introduce the scheme.

She said: 'Research has provided solid evidence that dogs can have a very positive and beneficial effect on a patient's wellbeing and assist a speedier recovery.

'The companionship of a dog and their handler can decrease loneliness, stimulate conversation, encourage movement and social interaction.

'We're very pleased to be introducing this programme to NNUH and so grateful to those at the charity for sparing their time to support our patients.'

Andree Glaysher, ward sister for Heydon Neurology, said her team were delighted to be introducing the scheme to the ward.

'Staying in hospital can often be a stressful time for patients and having the dogs on the wards will be a great way to bring joy and companionship and support the wellbeing of our patients,' she said.

All PAT volunteers visiting the NNUH will be registered with the national charity and will also be required to complete an additional NHS trust level recruitment process, before becoming PAT animals all dogs are required to pass behavioural assessments and be fully vaccinated.

Carole Adam, volunteer area coordinator and dog assessor for PAT Norwich, said: 'PAT is the UK's leading charity providing animal assisted therapy.

'Our teams continue to make a significant difference to the lives of people in Norfolk and we hope we can bring a little joy to inpatients at NNUH.'

Anyone interested in volunteering with PAT who feels that their pet could become a therapy animal should visit www.petsastherapy.org