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NSW Transport hires 'emotional support' puppy

New South Wales transport workers have a new furry employee who is helping support their mental health.

Bentley, an 18-month-old pure-bred miniature poodle, is the first mental health assistance dog to work on the state's railway lines.

The little pup is a fully accredited mental health assistance dog and is currently working on the Blue Mountains train line to support train staff and customers.

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Bentley the mental health assistance dog supporting NSW transport staff.

Janette Owens initiated this new program when she bought little Bentley into work as a puppy as she couldn't leave him at home.

One of Ms Owens' colleagues came into work suffering from anxiety and Bentley was immediately by her side.

"She came into the office she was a little upset so Bentley came out of his bag and he cuddled up with her she sat there patting him," Ms Owens said.

Bentley the mental health assistance dog supporting NSW transport staff.

"Later she commented on how he had relieved her stress and that's how I knew he had the temperament."

From there, Bentley underwent training to become a support dog.

Transport staff can be exposed to traumatic events such as near misses and fatalities, NSW TrainLink Chief Operating Officer Dale Merrick said.

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Bentley the mental health assistance dog supporting NSW transport staff.

For train driver Alicia Nissen, this possibility became a reality when a young man jumped in front of her train in Newcastle and died.

"I had been suffering from PTSD, I couldn't even catch a train," Ms Nissen said.

"The first day I caught a train back to work I was a mess but Bentley comforted me.

"Bentley has helped me catch trains again."

Bentley the mental health assistance dog supporting NSW transport staff.

"Whether it is near-miss or fatality, Bentley provides that support we haven't had before," Mr Merrick said.

Ms Owens said Bentley helps people by allowing them to talk about what is going on for them.

"He is non-judgemental and listens to all your problems," she said.

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Bentley the mental health assistance dog supporting NSW transport staff.

Bentley has worked with transport staff who have witnessed traumatic events, suffer from anxiety, calmed down customers, and provides a friendly furry face on the platform.

"Bentley provides that next level of support," Mr Merrick said.

Ms Owens hopes more mental health assistance dogs like Bentley can be introduced across the NSW transport system.

Bentley the mental health support dog working on NSW trains.

"It would be amazing if it could become a program it would be beneficial for everyone," she said.

Today marks Rail R U OK Day and Bentley is out and about showing how a little animal can break down barriers and start mental health conversations.

"He's had an amazing impact he's brought together a whole community," Ms Owens said.