Therapy dog Bailey’s journey to Bear Cottage is remarkable in itself. Born in Queensland, he was raised and trained from the start to become a therapy dog. In May, before he had even turned two, Bailey traveled south to Sydney, joined his new family, and began his first official role at Bear Cottage. He is now two and, in such a short time, has grown into a much-loved and valued member of the Bear Cottage community.

In many ways, Bailey’s journey mirrors those of the families he now supports. Families who arrive at Bear Cottage are often navigating a world they never expected to enter - facing uncertainty, profound love, loss, and grief, while seeking moments of hope and meaning. Bailey, too, has experienced change and transition, a new family, and a new beginning. His journey reminds us that new beginnings can hold uncertainty, but also connection and hope.

Bailey has a beautiful temperament. He carries an aura of warmth, calm, and gentleness. He is intuitive and quietly attentive, seeming to recognize when someone needs him. He does not demand attention; he simply offers his presence. He will sit beside a child, parent, sibling, or staff member who is anxious or overwhelmed, providing a sense of safety, stability, and trust. In moments of uncertainty, Bailey gives people permission to pause, breathe, and simply be.

One little boy arrived at Bear Cottage, frightened of dogs, and would run away whenever Bailey came near. Over time, he watched Bailey’s calm, nurturing nature and saw other children playing with him. Slowly, he began to approach Bailey, offering gentle pats and sitting beside him. By the end of his stay, he eagerly waited at the front door for Bailey to begin his shift. He loved grooming and brushing Bailey, spraying him with dog cologne and offering the occasional treat. Watching fear turn into trust, and then into joy, was a beautiful example of the connection Bailey can create.

Bailey’s large, gentle head has also become a source of comfort, resting beside children almost like a very warm, very furry weighted blanket. I remember one young patient and Bailey falling asleep together, side by side, listening to Bailey’s gentle snore. It was such a beautiful moment. 

Bailey has also supported families experiencing bereavement. He does not shy away from sadness or try to fix it. He simply shows up, stays, and offers comfort in whatever way is needed. Sometimes that means sitting quietly beside someone, offering a soft nudge, or simply being there for a cuddle.

Whilst Bear Cottage is temporarily closed for refurbishment, Bailey continued his important work. He has accompanied families on outings to Sydney Wildlife Zoo and whale-watching trips, and he visits children on the wards at Sydney Children's Hospital and Children's Hospital at Westmead, bringing joy wherever he goes. Bailey is clearly developing quite the fan club. On our recent whale-watching trip, one family member laughed and said, “I have taken more photos of Bailey than of the whales. He is just so beautiful.”

Bailey may only be two, but his impact is already deeply felt. Bailey reminds us that sometimes the greatest comfort does not come through words but through warmth and presence - and, occasionally, a gentle snore.

Bailey’s placement and ongoing care has been made possible through the generous support of Petbarn Foundation through Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation, with support from Empower Assistance Dogs, Royal Canin, Zoetis and Greencross Vets.

#InternationalDogDay