Meet the newest addition to the Surf Coast Youth Space: Larry the four-year old cocker spaniel.
Larry is an accredited therapy dog and you’ll find him at the Youth Space at the Kurrambee Myaring Community Centre in North Torquay every Monday and Wednesday afternoon.
He is a welcoming face who helps initiate conversations and provides a connection for those who may feel alone. He also helps create a fun, interesting and entertaining space.
Therapy dogs provide a unique form of support to young people by offering a calming presence, reducing stress, and promoting positive emotions. The benefits of therapy dogs have been widely documented, and studies have shown that interactions with dogs can lower blood pressure, decrease feelings of anxiety, and even improve social skills and cultivate empathy.
“Larry has been a game changer for the Youth Space. People light up when they see him; he’s a real mood booster,” Surf Coast Shire Mayor Cr Liz Pattison said.
“He gets people talking to each other, which helps build friendships, and offers a sense of comfort and companionship.”
Mayor Pattison said the Surf Coast Youth Space is open three nights a week during the school term.
“It’s a great place for young people to hang out and catch up with others. There’s free food, WiFi, Nintendo Switch, table tennis, music equipment and more. We’re seeing up to 60 young people attend each evening.”
The Surf Coast Youth Space is open 3pm to 5pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
