Roxi our wonderful Therapy Dog is providing happiness and connection amidst the third UK lockdown here at Sonya Lodge Residential Care Home.
Roxi is a rescue dog who is now in the loving care of our Business Support Officer, Amanda Jones.
Roxi can often be found roaming our Home, seeking cuddles and affection from our residents. She’s a long-haired Jack Russell who has been providing our residents with enriching mental stimulation through petting and reminiscing, as well as offering companionship during the ongoing restriction on visitors.
Amanda comments:
“It’s been an extremely challenging 12 months for everyone, and particularly for those in social care. With restrictions on visits to the Home following another national lockdown, Roxi plays a pivotal role in allowing our residents to emotionally connect on a meaningful level, whether it’s through stroking, cuddling, or even just talking to her.
“Roxi was a stray who had fallen on tough times, and from the moment I saw her all dishevelled and unloved at a dog charity eight years ago, I fell in love with her. I walk her into work every day where she has a bed under my desk and a pack of dog treats at the ready.
“The reaction she provokes from our residents every day will never cease to amaze me – the calming effects and reassurance is priceless and so wonderful to see.”
When providing reassurance and calmness to one of our residents Maggie, Roxi has helped her reminisce about her own dog Woody, affectionately named after first being found chewing on wood, who she misses dearly.
Another of our residents, Doris, has built a strong emotional connection with Roxi, often walking her around our Home and petting her in the main lounge.
It’s these simple connections with Roxi that Amanda believes are crucial to our residents’ mental health and we are delighted, every day, that Roxi is part of our Sonya Lodge family.
