GUIDE DOG VISITS WELLINGTON DEMENTIA CARE HOME

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Residents of a dementia care home in Wellington responded with lively interest to a recent visit by a local guide dog user, accompanied with her canine companion, who shared with them her experience of life with the support of a guide dog.

Jo Hogan has benefitted from the support of three dogs before the arrival in 2020 of Erryn, a gentle and loving four-year-old Labrador. She was registered blind at 21, having started to lose her eyesight aged nine.

Richard Dempslake, activities co-ordinator for Camelot House and Lodge, said: “It was a lovely session – Jo told us her story, her experience with having a guide dog and how it transformed her life.

“We thought we already knew a bit about guide dogs, but Jo really enlightened us about the difference a companion such as Erryn makes to the lives of individuals who have a vision or hearing impairment.

“After the talk, residents were keen to ask Jo questions about her loyal companion, and then we walked around the home introducing Jo and Erryn.

“This helped with residents with sensory loss and became an animal therapy session, with residents thoroughly enjoying stroking Erryn’s fur and getting an occasional lick.

“Jo offered residents guide dog stickers which they wore with pride.

“Our residents thoroughly enjoyed Jo and Erryn visiting, and we were pleased to make a £50 contribution to Guide Dogs UK who do such amazing work training dogs for people like Jo.”

Jo Hogan said: “Erryn and I really enjoyed our time at Camelot House. We would welcome the opportunity to visit again any time for animal therapy.

“I’m sure many people with sight loss would join me with huge thanks for the donation made by Camelot Care.

“The Guide Dog Association is a life-changing charity, and guide dog owners like myself are able to live fulfilled lives with our furry friends which would not be possible without our donors.”

The visit is part of a full and varied activities programme co-ordinated by Richard and his team for the enjoyment of residents of Camelot House and Lodge. The home is run by Camelot Care who also have homes in Bridgwater and Plymouth, and another due to open shortly in Yeovil.