Visit from man's best friend

Charlie, a seven year old Golden Retriever visited Highcroft Hall Residential Care Home to take part in a weekly animal therapy session.

Resident Arthur Sayers, 68, said: “Charlie is a very nice dog and I like him visiting us here at Highcroft Hall.”

Fellow resident Nancy Ward, aged 91 said: “As a child I was scared of dogs but I have grown to love them and once had a Heinz 57 variety.

“Charlie is a lovely dog and I like to see him every time he comes.”

The sessions are run by Pets as Therapy, a network of volunteers who share their pets with people across the country.

They provide therapeutic visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing and care homes and all types of schools.

Interaction with animals provides care home residents, including those living with dementia, with a great source of comfort, companionship and motivation.

Among other benefits, stroking an animal can reduce blood pressure, have a calming effect on the mind and ease anxiety.

The care home’s activities leader Jayne Woods said: “Our residents love Charlie – he is like a member of our own family and his calming nature is great for our resident’s wellbeing.

“Animals are not only calming but they also bring back wonderful memories of when our residents used to have their own pets.

“It’s always lovely to hear the stories and see the faces when Charlie arrives – it’s priceless.”

The home, on Old Fallings Lane, is operated by Sanctuary Care.