Meet Bonnie: The Therapy Dog Making Weekly Visits to Cherry Tree House

Can you tell us a little more about Bonnie and how you came to have her? 

Bonnie was picked up as a stray by a dog warden and taken to Chiltern Dog Rescue. I was registered with them at the time and was notified that a new Boxer had arrived, so my family and I went to meet her, along with our other dog, Lilly, a Cocker Spaniel. 

Bonnie was very skinny and sad when we first met her, but I could see she had a gentle nature and seemed very chilled, so we had to have her! 

What is Therapy Dogs Nationwide and how did you hear about them? 

It’s a registered charity where volunteers take their own temperament assessed dogs into places such as care homes, schools, hospitals, police stations and courtrooms to provide comfort, companionship and stimulation. 

A lady I know locally was registered with them and, when I noticed they were holding an open morning, I went along with Bonnie. She completed a temperament assessment with me which she passed with flying colours, and they thought she would be perfect, so we signed her up! 

What inspired you to register Bonnie, and was there a particular moment when you realised she might be suited to visiting care homes? 

I lived next to Cherry Tree House for a period earlier this year, so I used to pop in. I noticed how comfortable Bonnie was here and quickly saw the benefits of bringing her along. She lights people up, and it’s so good for wellbeing. Lots of residents told me how much they love dogs, and they’d often wait for us with a pot of treats. 

I’ve also worked with children for 20 years and have seen first-hand the impact pet therapy can have. It’s always been something I’ve been keen to explore further, especially as I love caring for others and have always enjoyed helping older people, perhaps because I was raised by my Nan. 

What does being registered with Therapy Dogs Nationwide entail, and what made you choose Cherry Tree House for your weekly visits? 

You have to complete an initial eight-week induction at one establishment before you can expand your visits or work with children. 

Cherry Tree House has such a homely environment and, after seeing how much Bonnie loves being here and how welcome we feel, I wanted to make our visits a regular thing. I’m also keen to continue visiting as the home transitions to Wendover Manor. I feel I can help provide some continuity through familiar faces and a familiar routine. 

What do you think the visits mean to our residents? 

I think Bonnie brings residents a lot of joy and comfort. They love giving her treats and having cuddles! Bonnie can prompt memories and conversations about pets, which often develop into other childhood memories. Animals don’t ask for anything, but they bring peace, and Bonnie is such a gentle and calming support. 

What does volunteering mean to you? 

It means so much and I absolutely love it. I feel so proud of Bonnie and it’s such a special thing for us to do together. I love that I can share Bonnie and the happiness she brings, and it turns out I’ve got quite a few connections here! I really enjoy spending time chatting with residents, too. I’ll often talk about the walks I’ve been on and help bring the outside world in. 

Cherry Tree House now feels like a second home to us. Everyone is so kind, friendly and helpful. I’ve been in a few care homes, and I’ve never felt quite like this. I can tell Bonnie feels it too, by how settled she is and how much she enjoys coming here. 

The wider benefits of animal companionship 

The positive impact of animals in care settings is also reflected in research. A UK systematic review published in 2023 found that interactions with animals can support emotional wellbeing, with evidence suggesting potential benefits in reducing loneliness, anxiety and depression. 

 For residents, a visit from a friendly dog can be about much more than a cuddle. It can open the door to treasured memories, encourage conversation and provide a welcome change to the daily routine, as we’ve heard from Becky. 

A difference felt by the whole team 

Home Manager, Megan Millson said, “It’s lovely having Bonnie as part of our weekly routine. She brings an extra sense of warmth and companionship to life in the home and reminds us how important those little moments of connection can be. Becky and Bonnie have become a valued part of our Cherry Tree House family.”  

A huge thank you to Becky for sharing more about Therapy Dogs Nationwide and, most importantly, for choosing us for your regular visits. 

Bonnie has become a familiar and much-anticipated face, and we’re grateful to Becky for the time she gives to us each week. It’s lovely to see the difference these visits make, not only to our residents but to our team, too.  

Therapy Dogs Nationwide are always looking for new volunteers. If your dog is calm and you think it has what it takes to be a therapy dog, please apply online at tdn.org.uk.