Adorable pooch a loved visitor

THERE’S one Cairns volunteer who stands head and tail above others during visits to a Westcourt retirement village.

On the eve of International Volunteer Day on December 5, it’s no secret that Loki, a border collie/kelpie cross, has stolen the hearts of residents at Mercy Place Westcourt.

The four-legged volunteer never fails to turn up for his weekly visits – wet nose, waggy tail and all.

Loki and owner Natasha Dearle have been visiting residents regularly for close to three years, meeting and greeting seniors at the not-for-profit aged care home and, in the process, becoming a huge hit among residents and staff.

Natasha says Loki’s visits spark plenty of joy among residents, most of whom have owned and loved dogs at some stage in the past.

“Loki has had an extremely positive influence on residents, as well as Mercy Health staff who also totally adore him,” she says.

“We both love being volunteers and having the opportunity to spend time with seniors every Thursday morning,” Natasha says.

“We have found that his presence is very relaxing for residents.

“They love stroking him and giving him treats, and his visits certainly increase interactivity, especially with those who are living with dementia.

“I think he’s secretly everyone’s favourite visitor and he just adores being around friends too.”

Mercy Place Westcourt service manager Angela Cox says statistics show that 85 per cent of people have owned a pet at some time in their lives.

“Because of this, it is no surprise that animal interaction is a great source of therapy,” Angela says.

“Research also shows that animals improve the wellbeing of people and this is one of the reasons why we are so happy to welcome Natasha and Loki every week and very much value the fact that they volunteer with us so regularly.

“Loki is a very popular visitor at Mercy Place Westcourt.

“It’s no secret that everyone has fallen in love with him.

“We are very grateful to Natasha, and indeed all of our volunteers for their dedication to us as we approach International Volunteer Day.

“No doubt Loki will be rewarded with an extra special treat to acknowledge his doggie dedication to our home and our residents too,” Angela says.

Volunteers help out with pastoral care, special events like barbecues, taking residents on outings with staff and gardening with residents.

Anyone keen to find out about volunteering at Mercy Place Westcourt or Mercy Place Woree can contact Michelle Phillips at michelle.phillips@mercy.com.au or phone 4031 6977.