Meet Benedetta, affectionately known as Bene—the 3.5kg Italian greyhound whose gentle presence is spreading joy and healing across Auckland’s hospitals.
At just three years old, Bene is small enough to be lifted, cuddled, and placed onto hospital beds. She visits Auckland City Hospital and Starship Children’s Hospital each week with her owner, Rose Jackson, as part of the Hato Hone St John Therapy Pets programme.
“She’s an amazing connective being that people gravitate to,” says Rose, who has also felt the healing impact of Bene in her own life.
Rose’s journey with Bene began after a major health setback. At age 42, Rose faced early surgical menopause after losing her only remaining ovary to a painful torsion. The sudden hormonal depletion left her feeling as if she was “trying to drive a car without any petrol.” Nine months later, Bene entered her life—and everything changed.
Out on walks, Bene’s natural charisma drew attention. People stopped their cars to meet her, took photos, and patted her. Witnessing the “Bene effect” firsthand, Rose decided to channel that magic into volunteer work. After reading about the benefits of volunteering for mental health, she enrolled Bene into the Hato Hone St John Pet Therapy programme. After behavioral and command testing, Bene officially became a therapy dog in 2023.
Gentle by nature, Bene is often described by Rose as “more like a supernatural being than a dog.” During hospital visits, Bene might be held by 20 to 30 people, calmly resting her head on their shoulders. “She likes being held, and many people cradle her like a cat,” says Rose.
Bene’s hospital shifts often see her paired with Ranger, a 73kg Leonberger, showcasing the diversity among therapy pets. Together, they visit wards at Auckland City Hospital, Starship, and elderly care and dementia facilities. Rose ensures Bene stays hydrated and rested during visits to avoid fatigue.
There’s no script for pet therapy; the dogs work their magic simply by being present. Every week, Rose witnesses extraordinary moments. She recalls volunteering at a local school where a nearly non-verbal girl blossomed over time, eventually speaking animatedly to Bene. “By the end, they were different children—and it wasn’t because of anything I did. It was this amazing dog.”
Inspired by her experiences, Rose is now studying for a master’s degree in creative arts therapies at Whitecliffe.
Bene’s arrival into Rose’s life seemed serendipitous. During the Covid pandemic, the tiny pup was couriered from Tauranga, wrapped in a small pink blanket. At just 14 weeks old, she fit into Rose’s hands. “As soon as her little legs touched the floorboards, she raced up and down the hallway like she’d always lived here,” Rose recalls. “She’s been amazing for us as a family, and for me personally during recovery. We weren’t even meant to get her, but when the vet called to say she needed a home, it was an instant YES!”
Today, Bene’s gentle hugs bring comfort not only to patients but also to staff and visitors, brightening their days and easing emotional burdens.
The Power of Therapy Pets
Interacting with therapy pets releases endorphins, reducing stress, easing loneliness, and improving social skills. Pet visits at Starship Hospital help distract children from their medical challenges and bring smiles to those missing their pets at home.
“The parents also love seeing their children smile and interact with the dog—it makes their day too,” says Pam Hall, Hato Hone St John Community Care Manager for Therapy Pets.
In rest homes, therapy pets foster social connections and unlock joyful memories. “One lady, who couldn’t use her arms, has started to pat the dog. It unlocks something within them,” shares Pam.
Visits aren’t just for patients—hospital and rest home staff also benefit, enjoying a few moments of peace and comfort.
Volunteering with therapy pets not only uplifts those visited but also enhances the mental wellbeing of volunteers. Truly, it’s a win-win.