New South Wales transport workers have a new furry employee who is helping support their mental health. 9News
Bentley, an 18-month-old pure-bred miniature poodle, is the first mental health assistanceThe little pup is a fully accredited mental health assistance dog and is currently working on the Blue Mountains train line to support train staff and customers.Janette Owens initiated this new program when she bought little Bentley into work as a puppy as she couldn't leave him at home.
One of Ms Owens' colleagues came into work suffering from anxiety and Bentley was immediately by her side. "She came into the office she was a little upset so Bentley came out of his bag and he cuddled up with her she sat there patting him," Ms Owens said."Later she commented on how he had relieved her stress and that's how I knew he had the temperament."Transport staff can be exposed to traumatic events such as near misses and fatalities, NSW TrainLink Chief Operating Officer Dale Merrick said.
"Whether it is near-miss or fatality, Bentley provides that support we haven't had before," Mr Merrick said."He is non-judgemental and listens to all your problems," she said.Bentley has worked with transport staff who have witnessed traumatic events, suffer from anxiety, calmed down customers, and provides a friendly furry face on the platform.Ms Owens hopes more mental health assistance dogs like Bentley can be introduced across the NSW transport system.
Today marks Rail R U OK Day and Bentley is out and about showing how a little animal can break down barriers and start mental health conversations.'Baby dragons' born in Australian zoo for first time
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