I don’t feel stuck inside on my own any more
SHIRLEY’S STORY
SUFFERING from severe arthritis meant that Shirley Gorman struggled to leave the house.
She said: “I was quite depressed and wasn’t going out much. I felt I’d nothing to leave the house for.
“I had two hip and knee replacements and I’d lost all my confidence. I live on my own and not seeing people or going out started to get me down.”
After hearing about Barking Mad, Shirley volunteered to become a host for elderly dogs that only need short strolls. And she credits the service with transforming her life.
She said: “I can’t go on long walks, because it’s just too painful. I can manage short ones and that’s a perfect fit for an elderly dog.
“Caring for a pet means that I’ve got to get up and go outside and it’s also good company around the house.
“I don’t feel like I’m stuck inside on my own and every dog is properly trained.”
Shirley, from Greenock, is looking forward to welcoming spaniel Mylo into her home at Hogmanay while his owner is on holiday.
She said: “I’ve had Mylo to stay a few times and he’s such a lovely dog.
“I’m fond of them all and it’s lovely to see their wagging tails and happy faces. Volunteering as a host really has changed my life for the better and brought me so much joy.”
Shirley does miss the animals when they go back to their owners but never has to wait too long until another arrives.
She added: “When people go away, they don’t like the idea of dog kennels. This service is reassuring for them because they know their dogs are going to be cared for properly.
“What’s lovely is you get the same dogs coming back on a regular basis and you get to know their personality and quirks.
“It’s a fantastic thing and has given me a new lease of life.”