Pets As Therapy (PAT) is a national charity that enhances the health and wellbeing of thousands of people across the country by giving people of all ages and backgrounds the chance to chat to someone, and the opportunity to meet a friendly dog or cat. Their team of volunteers and temperament-assessed pets visit establishments such as care homes, hospitals, hospices, schools and prisons, and bring smiles to many faces.
At Spirehouse, we have seen first-hand the benefit and joy that a PAT dog can bring into someone’s life.
Our Co-Founder Luke has two Spaniels, a delightful Sprocker Spaniel named Ruby (pictured) and a crazy Working Cocker Spaniel named Ginny. Whilst it is unlikely Ginny would pass a PAT assessment, for the last two years Ruby has been a registered PAT dog, attending a local Special Education Needs school and a local care home to spend time with the children and residents.
We have countless stories of the difference Ruby has made and the moments of happiness she has brought, from young children finding their confidence to read aloud by reading her a story, to cheering up the care home residents on what was otherwise another normal day, reminding many of the friends they once had. See below for some pictures of her visits.
For this reason, choosing Pets as Therapy as a charity partner was an easy decision. If by helping PAT, we are helping to bring a companion or a smile to people who need it the most, then we are on to a winner.
To learn more about Pets as Therapy, becoming a volunteer or to donate, please visit: www.petsastherapy.org
If you want to speak to Luke about being a PAT volunteer, please feel free to contact him on 0121 798 0498 or luke@spirehouse.co.uk.
Please note - we have permission to share all of the photos used in this article.