Puppy love cheers care home residents

Residents at Richmond Court in Willington, County Durham, which is one of the Bondcare care homes, enjoyed a visit from man’s best friend for a Pets as Therapy session.

Cockapoo, Golden Retriever and Labrador puppies visited the residents with their owner, Deborah Forster from Gunnerdale Gundogs, and kept the residents company for the afternoon.

Residents stroked and communicated with the dogs while Deborah told the residents about caring for the puppies. Everyone enjoyed the visit so much that it will become a regular activity at the care home.

PAT-dogs are known to have a calming and therapeutic effect and give those residents that previously owned a dog the opportunity to interact with the animals and rekindle fond memories.

Richmond Court provides care for 45 residents, including mental health and dementia nursing care and residential or respite care for people with learning difficulties.

Julie Gray, manager at Richmond Court, said: “The residents really enjoyed the visit, especially the companionship they got from the puppies. Interaction with the PAT-dogs has a very soothing and comforting effect, which is very beneficial for our residents. We are really grateful to Deborah for bringing the puppies to see us and we are looking forward to it becoming a regular activity.”