Dogs are a veteran’s best friend

War veterans enjoy the benefits of ‘therapets’.

All of us who have pet dogs know that they are part of the family.

There is nothing like that excited and affectionate welcome they give us when we walk in the door, even if we have just been away for five minutes to go to the shops.

So I’m not surprised the introduction of specially-trained dogs has enhanced the lives of the men and women who are cared for at Erskine Veterans homes.

A project set up to allow residents to spend time with some adorable pooches has even led to a bit of a romance.

Pensioners Jimmy Groat and Nettie Currie are now great friends after they both realised how much they loved the dogs.

Jimmy, 88, a former Navy veteran from Orkney lost his wife 17 years ago, and 85-year-old Nettie was also her own after her husband died two years ago.

The two of them are looked after at Erskine and their friendship has given them both a new lease of life, all because of the friendly pets.

It’s a wonderful story of love and healing and just shows how much animals can help human beings.

The dogs, who have delightfully been named “Therapets” boost morale and are popular with staff and residents alike.

Rusty, a Cavalier King Charles spaniel is one of the pets who pops into the care home and is totally spoilt by all the residents.

I saw myself how a visit from a pet can make all the difference when I took Rocky, our border terrier, to visit my late granny at her care home in Rutherglen.

Rocky is an adorable and really friendly wee dog and he just lit up the room. Everyone wanted to clap him and give him a biscuit. He made such a difference and really cheered everyone up.

It’s been proved that having a pet can reduce stress and anxiety and make us all feel happier, and this is certainly the case at Erskine.

The men and women at the care home have all given so much as members of the armed forces, serving in conflicts not only in the last century, but up to to the present day.

Volunteers also do an amazing job and it’s a remarkable charity that needs our help and support.

For more info, visit erskine.org.uk.