Orchard House Sponsors Puppy Training To Become Therapy Dog

Residents at Orchard House have been meeting a group of therapy dogs as part of a new community partnership with Ability 4 Dogs.

The visit saw residents spend time with therapy dogs Cyril, Clive and Sami, while learning more about the charity's work and the training involved in preparing dogs to provide comfort and emotional support.

It also marked the start of a new partnership between Orchard House and Ability 4 Dogs.

The care home is now sponsoring Zara, Cyril's sister, who is currently being trained to become a therapy dog.

The sponsorship will help provide resources for Zara as she works through her training and development.

Residents heard about Zara's progress and the difference therapy dogs can make to people's wellbeing.

The visit also prompted residents to share memories of their own pets and talk about the positive role animals have played in their lives.

Amanda Oxley, General Operations Manager at Orchard House, said the visit had brought "so much joy" to residents.

She added that the team was looking forward to following Zara's progress and seeing her eventually provide comfort and companionship to others.

Orchard House says community engagement is an important part of life at the home, with the partnership providing an opportunity to support a local charity while giving residents meaningful experiences.

The home hopes to welcome Zara back as she continues her training and reaches the next stages of her journey towards becoming a qualified therapy dog.