01204 471 695
info@4pureheart.co.uk
Olive “The Mentor” Dog
Meet Olive, our therapy dog! After two of 4PureHeart’s employees successfully gained their bronze awards in mentor training, Olive underwent her therapy training, and she is now a wonderfully valued member of the 4PureHeart team.
With a clear understanding of the theories of learning and the body linguistics that an animal can bring to the care environment, and the vulnerable young people within it, the staff at 4PureHeart have guided Olive into her role here at 4PureHeart. Not that Olive sees it as work! Her huge personality together with her natural, gentle ability to soothe and make people smile is very much treasured by the children and staff alike.
With a clear understanding of the theories of learning and the body linguistics that an animal can bring to the care environment, and the vulnerable young people within it, the staff at 4PureHeart have guided Olive into her role here at 4PureHeart. Not that Olive sees it as work! Her huge personality together with her natural, gentle ability to soothe and make people smile is very much treasured by the children and staff alike.
Olive brings a sense of joy, laughter and fun, along with the feeling of “normality” of a family home. She brings together the young people and their peers, who often join in to walk Olive. They share and learn to take turns, whether that be holding the lead, throwing the ball or filling up her water bowl. Olive encourages our young people to venture outside and have fun. They have the confidence to walk her in places they would normally feel anxious or worried about visiting, with Olive becoming a welcome distraction to enable our young people to get outdoors, enjoy the fresh air and take some physical exercise.
Unfortunately, most of our young people have not had a “normal” upbringing, and therefore often do not understand what they are feeling or how to deal with their emotions. Olive creates a safe, calming and non-judgemental atmosphere for our young people, enabling them the time to reflect and regulate. This allows them time to decide what they would like to do with their emotions - whether they would like to share, digest or if they would like to action any feelings they are experiencing. Here at 4PureHeart, we are extremely proud of the effect our lovely, loyal Olive has on our children.
