Baxter reminds residents of dog ownership

PET pooch Baxter has been visiting care home residents as part of pet therapy sessions.

Owner Linda Kennedy brought Baxter to see those living at The Oaks Care Home, on Durban Street, Blyth, Northumberland.

The visit was organised by Wag and Company North East Friendship Dogs, which works with professionally assessed volunteers and their dogs.

The sessions are designed to provide the benefits of pet ownership to the elderly – such as companionship, sociability and reduce stress and anxiety.

Resident Nancy Forsythe, a former dog owner, said: “It’s wonderful to have a dog back.”

Fellow resident Ann Lillico asked: “Can we keep him?”

Ann Mielnik, home manager at The Oaks Care Home, said: “Baxter is such a loving dog who enjoys attention.

“Linda loves seeing the reaction of residents to him and difference he can make.”