By Maureen Hennis

There is no doubt about it, dogs are a very important part of our lives. They cheer us and give comfort when we are depressed, keep us healthy and active, make us laugh and generally improve our quality of life. Therefore the pain of being denied access to animals can be unbearable.

Pets As Therapy exist to bring comfort and companionship to people in Hospitals, Hospices, Residential/Nursing Homes, Day Care Centres, Special Needs Schools and many other establishments. PAT dogs are often also found on 'Stroke' units helping people to move their limbs again, or with people who are clinically depressed. Very often people suffering from depression become lonely and withdrawn and sometimes cease to communicate with other people altogether. It has been found that PAT dogs can very often get through the barrier erected by these people when human contact has failed. This is often the first step to recovery. Lots of PAT dogs are working through Clinical Psychologists, with children who suffer from dog phobias, helping them to live a normal life in the community.

Nigel Trevarrow, a clinical Psychologist treating children suffering from debilitating phobias said "Pets As Therapy have improved the psychological and emotional well-being of all the children that they have worked with".

Phil Smith, a client who met a PAT dog whilst in long term re-habilitation after an horrific car crash said "PAT dog Sweep gave me back my life - he taught me to live again".

Over 4,500 PAT dogs and 108 PAT cats are at present visiting throughout the U.K. and over 130,000 patients every single week benefit from the service provided by Pets As Therapy.

Pets As Therapy also run a Junior Club which is open to anyone under the age of 18.

PAT dogs all undergo a temperament test which is carried out by a Pets As Therapy trained Assessor. Any dog could become a PAT dog, size doesn't matter, what is very important is the temperament of the dog. If you would like further information about Pets As Therapy check out the website www.petsastherapy.org   where you can also see a short film (just click on 'media') about the work of Pets As Therapy or for further information telephone 01844-345445.