Shakespeare's Special Touch

Written by Elenor MacFehin and reproduced with thanks to Pet Magazine, www.petmag.co.nz

Mercy Hospice in Auckland has a new volunteer. Its latest recruit is Shakespeare, a two-and-a-half-year-old apricot Labradoodle whose main task is to make patients smile. Shakespeare is one of three dogs that make up the hospice's canine team. The others are Ruby, a miniature Dachshund, and Dougal, a black Highland Terrier.

The dogs regularly visit the hospice to help raise spirits among patients facing life-limiting illnesses. Shakespeare attends the Open Doors group, which is an outpatient programme and also visits inpatients. Denise Evans, Shakespeare's owner, says he has been quite remarkable despite his young age, and appears to intuitively know how to behave. He is particularly calm during visits, she says, and has taught himself how to gently put his paws on a bedside to say hello and have a pat on the head. Fullers Ferries sponsors Shakespeare and Denise, who travel from Waiheke Island together each Tuesday for their hospice visit in Ponsonby. Shakespeare is already a popular character not only on the island but also on board, where he takes a keen interest in the ferry's progress across the harbour.

'He has a special collar and lead for the day we go to Mercy Hospice,' explains Denise. 'He also has his own volunteer name badge.' Shakespeare's hospice visits began after careful consideration. His breeder identified him as a puppy that was not only calm and peaceful but also very intelligent. Denise is ensuring he continues to learn and develop at his own speed. While he clearly thrives on the attention and looks forward to the visits, he is tired by the time he gets back home. 'He's just a great dog,' says Denise. 'He makes the most out of life.' Mercy Hospice patients are being supported by the Mercy team to do just the same. 'If, for even five seconds, he raises a smile, or allows someone to forget their troubles, it is worth the trip.'

How you can help: The hospice has gorgeous strawberry angel Christmas decorations on sale for $10 – perfect as a gift or for your own Christmas tree. You can also support the hospice by purchasing from its delicious range of Christmas cakes and puddings. To order, phone Lesley or Sandy on 09 376 7579.