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Dental hygienist Rachelle Johnson of Coastal Glo in Ulverstone, TAS, wants to give every patient a positive experience—and a furry little sidekick is helping her make this happen.
“Some people bring notebooks to work. I bring Col, my certified therapy dog and trusted teammate. Col, my six-year-old Maltese Shih tzu, is Coastal Glo’s most enthusiastic team member. He doesn’t do check-ups, but he calms nerves and helps patients, especially children and those affected by trauma, feel safe right away.
“I got Col in 2018 as a family pet. He started puppy training at six weeks and passed despite sleeping through a few classes! After I often mentioned how gentle and attentive Col was, a patient suggested making him a therapy dog. It was a big commitment, but after finding a therapy trainer on the Northwest Coast, we were all in. Col logged clinical hours and demonstrated behavioural skills in our monthly training sessions. We completed seven months of intensive training in August 2023.
“Col joined Coastal Glo in April 2024, when I expanded from teeth whitening to full dental hygiene services. As Tasmania’s first independent dental hygienist, I wanted to create a calm, prevention-focused clinic where personalised care comes first. I’m proud of what that expansion represents. Col helps bring that vision to life—offering comfort and connection for patients, especially those with dental anxiety.
“Therapy dogs are now widely accepted; a growing body of evidence supports their role in reducing anxiety and improving care, especially in paediatric dentistry.
“While there’s no specific Ahpra regulation yet, I follow strict hygiene, consent and animal welfare protocols. Col is insured, vaccinated, regularly groomed and hypoallergenic.
“Patients opt in via digital form to provide written consent if they want Col present. Some decline due to allergies or preference, which I fully respect, but feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. People smile and relax when they see him.
“My clinic is within Quadrant Dentistry in Ulverstone. Col stays by my side and never roams shared spaces. He is always on a lead when entering and exiting the clinic; we’re mindful it’s a shared space.
“Some non-Coastal Glo patients are surprised, until they learn his role. If they invite a pat or cuddle, we’ll say hello. Col is intuitive—gently greeting patients and offering quiet support, often with just a cuddle. He somehow knows who needs him and stays close until they’re settled.
“A calm patient is more cooperative, which improves outcomes, whether it’s hygiene treatment, whitening or airway-focused consults. Col enhances the emotional experience and helps me deliver more responsive care.
“Like any teammate, he has limits. I watch for signs of overstimulation and ensure he has regular breaks to rest and recharge.
“His name’s short for Colgate, both a toothpaste brand and dental landmark. He’s always on time and never talks back.
“I’m the hygienist, but Col’s the one who makes the smiles happen.”
