Two “doctor dogs” paid their first visit to more than 10 elderly people at the Shenzhen Social Welfare Center on March 14, bringing joy and laughter during the one-hour session.

Helen, a golden retriever*, and Nini, a chihuahua*, are the only two out of some 200,000 dogs in the city to pass an assessment* late January to become the city’s first “doctor dogs,” a program sponsored by the Hong Kong-based Animals Asia Foundation (AAF).

Helen and Nini, each wearing a bright red “doctor dog” scarf and a work certificate*, laid down on the lawn to frolic* with the elderly and were docile* when people fondled* them.

Nini’s owner, Wang Jiahui, who took half a day off for the visit, said she had visited owners of “doctor dogs” in Guangzhou last month to see how the scheme worked.

“I am happy sharing Nini with others and bringing them comfort. Getting involved in social activities also helps Nini build a better character,” she said.

Several elderly ladies vied to give Nini a hug.

“I used to be a kindergarten teacher. Having the little dog in my arms reminds me of the happy years spent with small kids,” said 84-year-old Huang Xiurong, a native of Guangzhou who has been living in Shenzhen for nearly 30 years since her two children settled here.

“I play cards with other elderly people here, read papers and watch TV in the evening, but have little to do in the afternoon. The dogs are a pleasant surprise,” she said.

More than 90 people, with an average age of 86, live in the center, which opened in 1999.