Allonsfield working with Therapy Dogs Nationwide
Using animals, especially dogs, as therapy is not a new idea, they have been used for over 40 years. Alongside our therapy farm we also have a strong connection with Therapy Dogs Nationwide (TDN). Over the last 2 years we have had the pleasure of working with three wonderful dogs and their owners.
Our first visit was from Billy, a beautiful border collie who loved biscuits. When Billy and owner Deborah moved away we were really sad to see them leave us. However we then welcomed Spencer, a Labrador cross and Neil to Allonsfield. Spencer and Neil are incredibly experienced. Spencer made a big impact instantly showing his loving side with residents. Spencer has now retired from TDN and we have recently welcomed Isla a little cockapoo and Roz.
Isla has the most gentle temperament, and it really is a highlight when they come to visit. Being quite a small dog she likes to be lifted up to see residents that are in wheelchairs or when someone can’t quite reach down to stroke her. She livens up any room she walks into, loves to have attention and can get quite jealous if another fury friend is also in the room seeing the residents.
Sybil especially loves seeing the TDN Dogs ‘I have grown up all my life with dogs and animals. I remember when I was young and my mum told me off I used to grab the dog and hide! It brings back so many memories and is such a comfort to see the dogs’
TDN is a charity and all their dogs and handlers are volunteers. They generously give up their own time to visit.
