A NATIONAL charity that provides animal-assisted therapeutic visits, are supporting staff at a Covid-19 vaccination centre in Berkeley today.

Volunteers from Pets As Therapy (PAT), are helping at the centre today to ease anxiety of those concerned about having the Covid vaccine at the vaccination centre situated at the former Berkeley Power Station.

With children aged between five and 11 years now being offered a vaccine, young people are being welcomed at the centre by some waggy-tailed four-legged friends.

Any anxiety soon disappears after a cuddle from a PAT Dog, and parents and guardians are witnessing first-hand the amazing work of local PAT Teams.

Dr Richard Probert, Joint Clinical Director of the Berkeley Vale Primary Care Network, said: “As a GP dealing with the vaccination response to the Covid-19 pandemic in Gloucestershire, it has been truly wonderful to see the impact that volunteers from Pets As Therapy have brought to our vaccination centre patients.

"We are currently vaccinating children aged between five and 11 years with a first dose, and those aged 12 to 18 with a second dose —PAT Dogs really do help to calm what can be a stressful experience for anyone with a phobia of needles or the vaccination itself.”

Pets As Therapy CEO Clare Davis, who is also a volunteer with her two English Pointers, added: “I wish to thank all the PAT Volunteers in Gloucestershire for attending the Covid-19 vaccination centres and sharing their fabulous PAT Dogs with others.

"The joy on the faces of the young people who get to interact with a friendly pet speaks volumes, and suddenly any worries disappear. I’m also thrilled that more people in the local area are being able to experience the benefits of visiting PAT Teams. If you’re a dog owner and would like to volunteer, please consider joining our PAT family.”