Our su-paw-heroes in the lockdown
DOGS are the four-legged heroes of the pandemic, helping people who are struggling with isolation during the lockdown.
In a poll by the Battersea charity three out of four rescue pet owners said their animals were helping them cope in quarantine.
From people shielding because of health issues to key workers, pets have become a godsend.
Speaking of his own lockdown companions, comic Paul O’Grady, a Battersea ambassador, says: “I would never have predicted I’d find myself locked down with four dogs, but I couldn’t choose better company.
“I can always rely on them to put a smile on my face.”
Deborah Tillett, 40, from East
REBECCA ON BOND WITH RESCUE LABRADOR RETRIEVER SKYE
Yorkshire, who has brain cancer, agrees, as she relies on Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Lacey – nicknamed PooFace, who she adopted in 2010.
She says: “Over the past eight weeks, I’ve had days when I felt down. But I have not once felt lonely. Because I know that I am loved by this slightly stinky beast.
“I know if I need a laugh, she will do something daft and make sure I giggle.”
Midwife Chelsea Duffin credits her dog, Percy, with easing the stress of working in the NHS, saying: “I look forward to coming home after a long tiring shift. Percy just takes all that stress away as soon as you walk through the door.”
The Kennel Club has also discovered that having a canine carer is hugely beneficial for those struggling with their mental health.
Amanda, 39, from Leeds, has multiple auto-immune conditions and finds that being “stuck” at home is very hard on her mental health.
But her adopted dog, Lister, who had been abandoned after suffering a badly broken leg, is keeping her company. She says: “I am shielding, but I can walk him every day, which gives me a chance to go outside and get a bit of exercise. Lister has been my life saver.”
And Rebecca, 28, from Middlesbrough, has Labrador Retriever Skye to help her cope with depression and severe anxiety.
Rebecca says: “During lockdown, Skye has given emotional support. On days if I’m feeling particularly down she helps by giving cuddles and being there for me.”
If I’m feeling particularly down she helps by giving cuddles & being there for me