A chihuahua has been dubbed a care home’s ‘canine relations manager’ after spending a decade winning over residents.
Lady, the 15-year-old canine, can often be seen pottering around Colne View care home in Halstead, Essex.
The popular pup was adopted by customer relations manager, Kim Richardson, but has since become a pet for everyone at the home, as a permanent fixture and favourite amongst residents.
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Known for her “big personality in a tiny package”, Lady is famous for inspecting visitors, strutting in her winter knitwear, and enjoying outdoor strolls with people living in the home.
The facility recently celebrated 10 years of the pup’s “dedicated, paw-some service” bringing “smiles, cuddles and laughter” to residents.
To mark the occasion, the team threw a party fit for their furry favourite, complete with ‘pupcakes’ and a display of pictures documenting special moments over the years.
A spokesperson for the home told What’s The Jam: “Lady’s visits offer more than just companionship – whether snuggling up with residents or sparking fond memories of past pets, her presence is a cherished part of life at the home.
“Lady is also known to cuddle up in bed with residents (especially if the bed has a warm blanket).
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“These are particularly important moments for those who are nursed in bed full time, as Lady provides a stimulating activity with her well-received visits.”
The team are also recognising the “therapeutic power” of animals for people living with dementia.
Winsome Grimwood, 92, a resident at Colne View, said: “Lady is such a treasure, she spreads joy to everyone.
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“We love seeing her every single day, we are so lucky to have her here.”
Meanwhile, her owner, Kim, added: “It was incredibly special to celebrate Lady’s tenth anniversary at the home alongside residents, with a party truly fit for a Lady!
“Colne View is Lady’s home away from home, and she spends most of her time here, bouncing up and down in the car on the way in and dragging her feet on the way out.
“Lady has become a local legend.
“First-time visitors often ask to meet her, and we even take her to other care homes for guest appearances.
“She’s an absolute star and brings so much happiness to everyone she meets.
“It has been a privilege to see how much of a positive impact Lady’s presence has been over the last decade.
“She’ll be getting an extra few cuddles to celebrate this milestone!”
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