Shot stray now helps sad kids

A PUPPY who was shot and left to die in a ditch is now helping victims of domestic violence.

Olaf was found starving, filthy, covered in ticks and with pellets in his legs where he had been blasted.

But he was brought to the UK from Greece and is now a top Pets As Therapy dog, helping women and kids.

Owner Anne Mari Barker-Davies, said: “I’m so proud of him. It’s incredible that after everything he went through, he’s now helping others.”

Anne Mari and husband Mike heard about charity Zante Strays last year and read about Olaf. They knew their boys, Dylan, ten, and Joe, six, would love him. After a home check, he was allowed to travel to the UK last May.

Anne Mari, 46, said: “His coat was short and he’d been terrified on the journey. I was worried how he’d adapt to life here. But he was as good as gold and settled in straight away, playing with his ball in the garden with my two boys as if he’d been here for ever.

“The rescue workers say that Zante dogs are streetwise and self-sufficient OUR vet Brian Faulkner, from Petplan, has 16 years of experience and is a freelance working all over the country. Send your questions to Brian at: Petplan, Great West House, Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9DX or via Petplan’s Facebook page facebook.com/ PetplanUK. but when they find a home, they’re very grateful, kind and loving.

“My friend’s son was scared of dogs, but with Olaf, he got down on the floor and hugged him. It was lovely.”

Anne Mari, from Hove, East Sussex, was approached by a Pets As Therapy worker while walking Olaf in the park.

He was assessed by PAT, who found he would be ideal to help people overcome their fear of dogs and comfort kids who had witnessed abuse.

Charity worker Anne Mari said: “We now work with a women’s refuge and it’s going well. The women and the children like giving him cuddles.

“Some have had to rehome their own pets, so seeing Olaf is a comfort.”

Olaf is a sproodle setter – a poodle, English setter and springer spaniel cross – and he has a cheeky side.

Anne Mari said: “He steals bread from the bread bin if he gets the chance. We can’t blame him after all he’s been through. He really is a special dog.”

Helen Brooker, UK co-ordinator for Zante Strays, said: “Olaf’s been through so much pain and suffering and really is remarkable.” I’ve just bought a new kitten and I want to get him neutered. How old should he be before we get this procedure done?

Cuddles