SATU at Regional Hospital Mullingar launches pet therapy

The Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) at the Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar has launched a pet therapy initiative designed to provide additional emotional support and comfort to people attending the service following experiences of sexual violence.

The initiative, which introduces specially trained therapy dogs Cooper and Maisie into the care environment, forms part of SATU’s commitment to enhancing the patient experience and providing compassionate, person-centred care.

Launched last week in partnership with Cian’s Kennels, the initiative builds on a successful pilot programme that demonstrates the comfort and reassurance therapy dogs can bring to people attending the service.

SATU at Regional Hospital Mullingar is one of six Sexual Assault Treatment Units in Ireland and provides a free, confidential, 24-hour service, 365 days a year, for people aged 14 years and older who have experienced sexual violence.

In 2025, SATU cared for 127 patients from 18 counties across Ireland.

The service offers three core pathways of care, including forensic examinations for those who wish to report an assault to An Garda Síochána, health assessments for those seeking medical support without making a report, and a secure evidence storage option for individuals who are undecided about reporting to An Garda Síochána following a recent incident.

SATU also provides outreach clinics in Monaghan, Cavan, Tullamore, Portlaoise, Longford, Naas and Athlone, ensuring that patients can access follow up care closer to home.

The introduction of pet therapy was developed after staff observed the positive impact of therapy dogs in the paediatric services at the hospital through the work of Cian’s Kennels. Recognising the benefits that pet therapy can provide during times of distress, the SATU team explored how a similar approach could support patients attending the unit.

The therapy dogs provide companionship, emotional comfort and a calming presence for patients who may be experiencing anxiety, fear or trauma. Their presence helps create a safe and supportive environment in which patients can engage with staff and access the care they need.

Feedback from the pilot programme has been overwhelmingly positive, and patients described the therapy dogs as a source of comfort and reassurance.

Many patients said the dogs helped them feel safe, reduced anxiety, and provided a welcome distraction during what can be a difficult time.

Staff members have also witnessed the positive impact of the initiative directly, noting that the therapy dogs provide comfort and reassurance for patients, often providing a valuable distraction during difficult or sensitive conversations.

Nessa Gill, SATU, Regional Hospital Mullingar, said: “Recovery following sexual violence is about more than medical treatment. It is about creating a safe, supportive and compassionate environment where patients feel heard, respected and cared for. The introduction of Cooper and Maisie has added another valuable layer of support for those who attend our service.”

Mags Kelleher, general manager, Regional Hospital Mullingar, welcomed the initiative and its positive impact on patient care. “At Regional Hospital Mullingar, we are committed to continually improving the experience of patients who access our services. This initiative demonstrates the importance of compassionate, person-centred care and reflects our commitment to supporting patients in a way that promotes comfort, dignity and wellbeing.”

Anyone who has experienced sexual violence can contact SATU at Regional Hospital Mullingar directly for support, information and advice, whether the incident occurred recently or in the past.

For more information on Sexual Assault Treatment Units, visit hse.ie/satu.