RESIDENTS at a care home in Wellington enjoyed a visit from a furry friend last month.

Six-year-old Bow, a schnauzer/poodle cross (schnoodle), visited Camelot House and Lodge at the end of July.

The therapy dog used to visit the home fortnightly before pandemic, and residents had greatly missed seeing him.

Bev Stanley, a volunteer with Pets As Therapy, bought Bow to the home.

She said: “After we agreed a date I arrived to have my lateral flow test done before we could go into the care home to see everybody.

“There was no doubt that Bow knew exactly where she was and had a very puzzled look on her face as to why she wasn’t getting out straight away, and in fact was horrified when I got back into the car, because she didn’t understand it was only to wait for my test result. As soon as I got the all-clear we went in - and it was just so lovely to be back and seeing everyone again.

“It didn’t take long for Bow to get back into the routine of me gently lifting her paws up and placing them at the side of residents’ knees, making it easier for them to say hello.

“It’s so good to be back visiting, and to be able to be part of the amazing activities that Richard Dempslake and his team are continuously providing for all the residents.”

Somerset County Gazette: THERAPY DOG: Alan Shere with Bow

Bev has been bringing Bow to Camelot House regularly since 2018, and so the home was delighted to welcome her back.

“Bow is such a lovely gentle little dog and the residents really love her," said activities co-ordinator at the home, Richard Dempslake.

“Expert opinion is that time spent with animals can genuinely benefit people’s physical health, with as little as five minutes a day petting or playing with a dog or cat leading to lowered blood pressure and better cardiovascular health.”