Death row dog is now therapy pet

A dog destined to be killed for the meat trade in Thailand has been rescued and is now a therapy pet in Stonehaven.

Thai, a Tibetan terrier cross, was just minutes from death when he was rescued by police who raided the premises of a gang allegedly killing dogs for their fur before his body was sold on to Cambodia to be used for food.

He spent three years in a rescue centre in Thailand before being brought to Scotland to live with new owner David Neill, who works for charity Cornerstone, which helps people with disabilities and other support needs.

Mr Neill soon spotted eightyear-old Thai’s potential as a therapy pet due to his gentle nature.

He said: “Thai now comes to work with me every day to visit other people I support.

“He has a lovely temperament.

“He’s quiet and doesn’t jump up or snap.

“His gentle manner helps engender a calmness in the people I support and they very much look forward to his visits.”

He said the whole family was very proud of Thai.

Mr Neill has been so inspired by the little dog’s charms that he has written and published three fantasy adventure novels with his pet as the main character – Thai and the Ghost of Dunnottar Castle, Thai and the Legend of Gallows Hill and Thai and the Creature of the Loch.

A fourth book is currently in the pipeline.