It’s lovely to have a little companion

EILEEN Kerr found herself feeling lonely at night after her children and grandchildren had grown up.

Having no one to chat to meant the hours before bedtime dragged by.

The 74-year-old, from Kilwinning, Ayrshire, said: “Being alone every single evening is when it really hits you most. There’s no one to blether to and I just have the TV for company.

“I try to keep myself busy during the day but you still miss having people around.

“It’s not easy living alone and there’s times when you feel a bit down.”

After becoming a Barking Mad host, Eileen spent last Christmas caring for a greyhound while its owners were on holiday.

She said: “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

“It’s lovely to have a little companion around my feet. I do get attached to the dogs but I know they are going back to a loving home.

“They are only with me for a wee holiday and I always know in advance when I’m getting one.

“It gives me something to look forward to and I take the dog everywhere with me.

“They are always so well-behaved, I never have any problems.”

Becoming a host has been a lifeline for Eileen, who is encouraging others who are struggling on their own to consider giving it a go.

She added: “I no longer worry about being on my own and it has given my confidence a huge boost.

“I’ve met other dog walkers and it has helped me build a new friendship group.

“My family are thrilled, too. I see them but I know they are busy with their own lives, so this gives them peace of mind.”