Scarborough dog Dempsey and her owner are 'bringing so much joy' to people needing support in the area
Scarborough based rottweiler Dempsey and her owner have become a new Pets As Therapy (PAT) team, helping those in need across the area and bringing joy to those who need it most.
Helen Maxwell and her four-year-old dog Dempsey have recently become a Pets As Therapy team who visit people across the Scarborough area. Dempsey is a temperament-assessed pet who visits establishments like care homes, hospitals, hospices and schools to bring smiles to the faces of those who need it most.
Pets As Therapy is a national charity that enhances the health and well-being of thousands of people in communities across the UK. They strive to ensure that everyone, no matter their circumstances, has access to the companionship of an animal.
Helen Maxwell, owner of Dempsey, said: “In 2014 my mum had a life-changing stroke at only 68 years old. Subsequently, my sister and I had to make the devastating decision to move her into a nursing home here in Scarborough.
“Mum positively thrived in Dunollie Nursing Home for nine years, becoming one of the most popular residents! We visited three times a week - my sister, myself and my two dogs.
“After losing my elderly dog, I surprisingly fell in love with a tiny rottweiler puppy. From the very beginning, Dempsey was a ray of sunshine spreading happiness wherever we went. She virtually grew up in Dunollie with us visiting mum, and became more popular than me!
“I have struggled with my mental health and my dog family have always been central to my therapeutic progress - none more so than the crazy ray of sunshine that is Dempsey.
“When mum passed away Dempsey became even more important to me, making me smile when I thought it wasn't possible. She matured into such a kind, friendly, happy, attention-loving pup and I knew she'd be perfect as a therapy dog - bringing joy to others as she did for mum and everyone she meets. So I decided I wanted to 'give back' for mum's great care.
“We applied to Pets As Therapy where I had to provide character references. Dempsey, like every other dog, had to undergo a PAT-specific behavioural assessment to ensure she was safe and appropriate for the role. Which of course she passed with flying colours!
“We have been active now for six months visiting nursing homes and a home for those with learning disabilities. Dempsey and I find it really rewarding and thoroughly enjoy meeting the residents, seeing their smiles, performing our little obedience 'show' and bringing so much joy.
“The residents look forward to our visits, some even venturing out of their rooms to meet us! It is such an easy and rewarding way to bring happiness.
“Dempsey is a four-year-old Rottweiler - a hugely misunderstood and misrepresented breed - so it is also important for us to educate and challenge the negative stereotype often associated with this wonderful breed.
“Dempsey is a fantastic ambassador for the beautiful, gentle, loving nature of rottweilers and we absolutely love being PAT representatives for Scarborough.”
Those interested in booking a visit from Dempsey or would like to know more, email Helen Maxwell via [email protected].