From race tracks, to slippers and slacks, Flash the rescue greyhound has found a new “leash” of life after care home residents adopted him as their new therapy dog.
The retired racing greyhound has brought smiles to the residents at Abbeyfield House in Alnwick, from the moment he got his paw in the door.
He will now take permanent residence in the lounge of the 25-bed care home, to increase residents mood and give them a more positive outlook on life.
Ewa Larmour, who is deputy manager of Abbeyfield House, said: “We’ve seen a massive difference in the smiles from our residents since Flash came to stay with us. You can’t help but smile when he’s near as he is so adorable.”
As a therapy dog, Flash will be used in the home to promote a pleasant environment and prompt memories from residents who have dementia.
Ewa decided to introduce a therapy dog into the care home after she had witnessed a similar thing in her previous job at a dementia home in Belfast. Pets would be used to reduce anxiety, and improve the social interaction of the patients with dementia.
This unique approach has proved successful as most of the residents have had, or knew someone who had, a dog when they were younger.
Ewa added: “Flash has greatly enhanced the quality of life for some of our residents who were very insular and therefore isolated. Now, they are mixing with other people and sometimes just having Flash in the same room has a big impact.”
While he was shy when he first arrived, Flash didn’t take long to settle into the care home and let his calm, friendly nature shine through.
Now, he will greet visitors at the door and sit happily at the feet of the residents he has built a special bond with.
Resident, Cis Shell, has formed a special bond with Flash since he moved into the home.
The 96-year-old, who moved into the care home just over a year ago, said: “Flash is an absolutely lovely dog and I’m so pleased he has moved to the home. He is very good with residents and the other dogs that visit.”
Since Flash’s arrival, the home believe there has been an increased number of family members visiting and engaging with their relatives by going for walks with Flash, or simply spending time in his company.
Senior Carer Carol Phelan has also noticed a difference in the residents since Flash arrived at the care home.
She said: “Flash is a very placid dog and everyone loves him. We pride ourselves on our comfortable, homely atmosphere, but Flash has made it even more so. He’s a part of our home and a real family pet with a fantastic talent for helping people on so many different levels."
