A DOG has started his first day at work at the Princess Royal University Hospital.

Four-year-old Bonsai is helping on the children’s ward at the facility in Farnborough as part of the national charity Pets as Therapy.

The organisation provides therapeutic visits by volunteers with vaccinated dogs and cats to hospitals, hospices, nursing care homes and special needs schools.

Bonsai had to be assessed on his health, temperament, suitability and stability grounds to join the Pets as Therapy team.

South London Healthcare NHS Trust (SLHT) play specialist Sian Spencer Little said: "We want to say a big warm welcome to Bonsai to the ward this is a great opportunity for us to introduce pet therapy.

"The reaction and impact it has on the children is paramount.

"I am really looking forward to working with him."

For more information, visit petsastherapy.org/