Our dogs give us so much joy in our lives. But have you ever thought of spreading that love and joy among those in society who have either never owned a dog or who are no longer able to care for them?
We have owned two Labradors who have volunteered for those less fortunate than us. Pickle, our current one, was almost five when, in December 2019, we started visiting a local care home once a week to spend time with the residents, who are generally old and some who have dementia. We did this through a charitable organisation founded in 1983 called Pets as Therapy. They also run an amazing programme for schools which helps children who may be nervous or stressed when reading to others communicate better and improves literary skills.
It is an incredible feeling to realise that you can make such a huge difference to the lives of those in a care home (or school) with your pet. Watching the residents’ faces light up with smiles as they saw Pickle again is a priceless feeling – and many of them then became quite animated and started telling you about their own lives and the dogs they have loved. The care home staff said “it’s the best thing that happens all week for many of them.”
So if you have a spare hour or so a week (daytime or weekends), and a dog with a calm temperament, why not find out more? The assessment to join the volunteer team is straight forward and relatively simple – you can find information on their website.
We are all so busy in our modern lives now, and it’s hard to find time for everything. But we can assure you that volunteering with your dog will be an incredibly rewarding experience for both you and your pet.
PS: Very sadly we've had to curtail our visits due to Covid, and now, with our home generally full of dogs, it is hard to make the necessary time.
Dog trainer and behavioural consultant
WinkieSpiers.com
Winkie runs puppy classes, one-to-one consultations and social walks. She was brilliant when we consulted her about our dog eating stones, after a costly operation to remove some from her stomach. I would unreservedly recommend her for anything dog related – and her book ‘How to handle living with your dog’ is a brilliant introduction to owning a dog.
Dog physiotherapist and hydro therapist.
We first went to see her for treatment when our current Labrador was diagnosed with early signs of hip dysplasia. The difference she has made to our lives is incredible – after about six sessions Pickle was on her way to being back to her usual self – and we were armed with exercises and massage techniques to keep the arthritis at bay as long as we possibly can. I can honestly say that Sarah gave Pickle (and us!) a new lease of life.