A LOVING old dog is hanging up his collar for retirement after spending three years bringing joy to residents at a Worcester care home.
Bentley, a Bernese Mountain dog, popped into Sanctuary Care’s Juniper House Residential Care Home for the last time to bid a fond farewell to friends new and old.
The seven-year-old ‘Pets as Therapy’ canine has proved very popular for residents at the home.
One gentleman who was terrified of dogs was introduced to Bentley, and from that day forward would follow him around throughout his visits, stroking him and asking questions about him.
Pets as Therapy has a network of inspiring volunteers who share their pets with people across the community, providing therapeutic visits to hospitals, hospices and nursing and care homes to provide joy, comfort and companionship.
Juniper House resident, Norah Harris, who is 101, said: “He’s such a good boy and we will all miss him.”
Gentle giant Bentley, who weighs around 8st, lives in St John’s with his owner Judith Robson.
“It’s been a real pleasure coming to visit the residents. It always warms my heart when I see how much joy they get from Bentley as their faces light up, and he gets just as excited to see them too,” said Ms Robson.
“Bentley is such a special dog and from the very start we knew we had to share him and I’m pleased we did. All the visits have been so worthwhile and we’ve made some very special memories.
“We’ve built some lovely bonds with people in the home, including both staff and residents, and it’s so sad to say goodbye at the end of a very special era.”
