Welcome visitor is cheerful sight (From Malvern Gazette)

Welcome visitor is cheerful sight

3:32pm Monday 10th September 2007 in News By Tarik Al Rasheed

A SEVEN-year-old black labrador is one of six finalists in a competition to find Britain's favourite therapy dog.

Hoyt and his owner Sharon Betts, of Spindle Road, Malvern, have been working with the Pets As Therapy (PAT) charity since November 2006.

Each week the pair visit Court House Nursing Home in Barnards Green to spread a little cheer among the residents.

"We go in and people can pet him or talk to him, and it is therapeutic and all to do with their well being," said Mrs Betts. "If people are used to pets but can't have them in a care home it just means so much to them."

When they heard about the competition to find the PAT dog of the year, Court House had no hesitation in nominating Hoyt.

He has now been shortlisted in the final six from hundreds on entries, with Yours magazine running a vote to find the eventual winner.

Court House's activities organiser Jackie Owen said the residents always looked forward to Hoyt's visits.

"We recognise how important it is to have animals around for the well being of our residents - their smiles say it all," she said.

Mrs Betts first discovered PAT during an open day at the Worcestershire Animal Rescue Centre at Deblins Green.

After passing a temperament assessment with flying colours, Hoyt was able to start work in Malvern.

"Hoyt absolutely loves it, and he adores all the attention," said Mrs Betts. "And for me it's just fantastic to see all the smiling faces."

Anyone wishing to support Hoyt can vote at www.yours.co.uk or by calling 0871 6222307.

For more information PAT's work and volunteering opportunities visit www.petsastherapy.org