"Inky is my six-year old black labradoodle. Although he's very much a family pet, he is one of the calmest, friendliest animals I have ever had, and I knew right from the word go, that he'd make an excellent Pets as Therapy dog.
"Pets as Therapy is a national charity, providing therapeutic visits to hospitals, hospices, nursing and care homes, special and mainstream schools throughout the UK, via their network of volunteers and their dogs and cats.
"Inky and I visit Bamfield Lodge Care Home in Whitchurch, Hartcliffe Nursing Home, and Ward 4 (acute dementia) and the Sulis Unit (stroke, rehabilitation and palliative care) at St Martin's Hospital, Bath. Inky offers residents and patients, who may be sick or isolated, companionship and gives them the chance to pet, stroke and talk to him.
"Going on a visit with Inky is like watching the sun come out. When I walk into a room with Inky, people's faces light up and they suddenly become more animated. We regularly visited one lady suffering from dementia, who would no-longer talk. In would trot Inky, and she would begin laughing and chattering away to him until he left.
"I remember my own father being very sad that, as he became more infirm, he'd never be able to have another dog. He used to love me bringing my dogs up to see him. I knew that if my dad got so much from a dog's visit, then there would most certainly be others who would too".
All of the 5000 active PAT dogs and 100 cats must pass an examination of their health and suitability. Every year, some will retire through old age or ill health, so new recruits are always needed.
For more information on Pets as Therapy, please visit http://www.petsastherapy.org
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