Garda dogs to put smiles on children’s faces

Garda dogs will soon become a common sight at children’s wards in two Cork hospitals as part of a plan to brighten up their lives.

The move comes in the wake of research which shows the positive effect assistance dogs can have on children who suffer from a number of illnesses or conditions.

For several months gardaí and the hospital authorities have been in discussion about the plan, which has just been given the green light.