A care home has welcomed a new furry friend to provide companionship and emotional support to residents.

Portobello Place, a luxury all-inclusive care home in Chesham, has introduced a new therapy dog to ensure residents benefit from regular animal companionship.

Dolly the Labradoodle has been a regular presence at the home since November 2022.

However, after a difficult year for her owner, Claire, Portobello Place partnered with Pets As Therapy to ensure continued visits, introducing Dougie the Golden Retriever to the residents.

When Claire's personal commitments had prevented her from continuing her regular schedule, the absence of Dolly was keenly felt.

Portobello Place reached out to Pets As Therapy, and Dougie the Golden Retriever, and his owner Marie, joined the care home’s therapy programme.

Dougie quickly formed a bond with the residents, and his visits have brought a new source of joy to the home.

Meanwhile, Claire has been able to resume visits with Dolly, meaning there is now a newly established alternating schedule.

Dougie visits on Tuesday mornings one week, while Dolly visits on Thursday afternoons the following week, ensuring residents benefit from weekly interactions with therapy dogs without placing pressure on the owners.

Therapy animals like Dolly and Dougie play a vital role in improving the wellbeing of care home residents.

Scientific studies show that interactions with animals can reduce stress and anxiety while increasing mood-enhancing endorphins.

The visits also promote social interaction, encouraging residents to share stories about their own pets and reminisce together, helping to alleviate loneliness.

By alternating weekly visits between Dougie and Dolly, Portobello Place continues to support the mental and emotional health of its residents, maintaining a tradition that has become a highlight of life at the home.

Jurgita Maksimova, Portobello Place’s events manager, said: "We are thrilled to have both Dolly and Dougie as part of our pet therapy programme.

"Dolly has been such a consistent source of comfort for our residents, and introducing Dougie has only added to that.

"The alternating schedule ensures that everyone gets regular visits without overburdening the owners, and the joy these animals bring is truly immeasurable.

"It’s wonderful to see the smiles and hear the stories they inspire."

Portobello Place is a member of the Berkley Care Group, the UK’s leading award-winning luxury, all-inclusive care home provider.

The group is committed to treating everyone with humanity and compassion, including residents, their families, and staff.