Dilly our Pet Therapy dog turns one!

We told you earlier this year about our brand new recruit – Bob’s family Golden Retriever Dilly, who is planned to become our Pet Therapy dog. When suitably trained we plan to take her out to spread a little joy and meet some of our clients.

I’d like to keep you updated on her progress, and this week she had her first birthday. To celebrate she went to meet all her brothers and sisters who all came from afar to have a grand reunion …. great fun was had by all, she got thoroughly muddy (she’s the one on her back in the photo) and slept for the rest of the day on her return!

It is well known that Pet Therapy animals have long been used to assist blind and disabled individuals. Now, dogs and pets of all kinds have become increasingly common in the treatment of individuals with dementia related disorders.
The kind of obstacles faced by those with dementia include apathy, irritability, restlessness, depression, difficulty engaging in social activities, and risk of loneliness and isolation. Due to the anxiety that social situations can cause in dementia patients, these people often avoid social situations altogether, including interacting with family and loved ones.