The Petstock Foundation has partnered with Wishlist to expand its Therapy Dogs Program, a move that is being celebrated by medical staff and patients alike.
Driven by a shared commitment to empowering a better future, the Petstock Foundation has committed $50,000 to expand the program that aims to provide better health services for everyone through more visitation and therapy assistance.
“Our mission is to empower a better future for people and pets, and we are honoured to support Wishlist in expanding their incredible Therapy Dogs Program,” head of the Petstock Foundation, Jessica Curtis said.
Wishlist chief executive officer Brendan Hogan said research showed therapy animals not only improved mental health and reduced stress but also lead to better patient outcomes.
“For patients, families, and even healthcare staff, the 90-minute visits by therapy dogs provide beautiful moments of relief, laughter and connection amidst the challenges of hospital stays.“
On Saturday 17 May, Petstock stores across Queensland will be celebrating the partnership with a fundraising community day for locals, with Wishlist’s therapy dogs in attendance at Maroochydore, Kawana Waters and North Lakes to support the initiative and help drive donations.
Former nurse and patient Margie Berbers who was visited by therapy dogs during her treatments for Crohn’s disease, has applauded Wishlist’s initiative.
“I always looked forward to the days Norman was visiting. You always feel love from dogs – they know exactly what you need,“ Margie said.
“It’s amazing that we now have more therapy dogs continuing Norman’s work.“
Norman was Wishlist’s first therapy dog, a beloved golden retriever, who became a symbol of hope at Sunshine Coast University Hospital. Over five years, Norman touched thousands of lives with his calming presence before his passing in December 2024. His story continues to inspire this powerful initiative.
The Wishlist Therapy Dog Program carries forward Norman’s legacy of healing through human-animal connection. Wishlist, the Sunshine Coast’s local hospital charity, launched a trial in July 2024 with just two therapy dogs, the program has since grown to ten therapy dogs and eight volunteer handlers.
Together, they visit departments including Mental Health, Palliative Care, Cancer Care, Renal Services, and the Rehabilitation Ward at Caloundra Hospital, Nambour Hospital, Maleny Hospital, and Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
This May, animal lovers in Queensland and across the country are being encouraged to get involved and help raise money for the Therapy Dogs.
How locals can help?
● Queenslanders across the state can donate at the counter instore or by rounding up purchases on Saturday 17 May.
● 100 per cent of round up proceeds from Petstock stores across Queensland on Saturday 17 May will be donated to Wishlist in addition to the $50,000 Therapy Dogs Program funding Wishlist is actively seeking donations as well as experienced and qualified volunteer dog handlers, particularly in Gympie and Nambour.
To support the Wishlist Therapy Dog Program in 2025 and beyond, donations can be made via therapydogs@wishlist.org.au
