Dan the dog's care home visits bring 'tears of joy'

When 84-year-old John Weller first moved into a residential home he struggled to settle - until he met his new four-legged friend, Dan.

The pensioner moved into the home in Chorley, Lancashire, a few months ago but he dearly missed his own pets - Rocky the miniature schnauzer and his whippet, Jovi.

Then staff noticed that regular visits from Dan the golden retriever really lifted his spirits.

Weller said seeing Dan "makes me happy", adding: "Stroking him and feeding him treats reminds me of my own dogs."

"I keep their photos in my bedroom and look at them often. I look forward to Dan's visits."

Staff at Gillibrand Hall Care Home said the pensioner was in a low mood when he first arrived, having left behind familiar routines and his former home.

But they noticed his confidence grew as he formed a strong bond with Dan, and the visits also brought back happy memories of his time with his own pets, a care home spokesperson said.

Dan's owner, Fiona Hill said: "Dan is very gentle - albeit a bit giddy sometimes - and he seems to instinctively know how to respond to each resident.

"Some even weep with joy when he arrives. The residents love sharing stories about their own pets, which can be emotional at first, but often spark happy conversations and laughter.

"Dan really helps them open up and, as his owner, I'm so proud of the comfort he brings."

Care home manager Kathy Spencer said Dan had even been named employee of the month recently because he made "a huge difference to residents like John".

"John's confidence and mood have lifted so much since meeting Dan," she said.

"For him, pet therapy isn't just about reducing anxiety - it's about reconnecting with his passion for dogs and those happy memories.

"The bond they share brings him comfort and calm."

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