大象传媒

Simba is owned by Ann Burrell, who runs a livery near Harrogate, "I was looking to do some volunteer work in the local area a few years ago. I don't even remember how I heard about the charity Pets As Therapy. Having this wonderful Leonberger dog I thought it might be worth trying out."

At that time the charity didn't have a North Yorkshire coordinator and it was Ann who had to look for places to visit, "I also had to get Simba assessed by the vet to ensure that he had the right temperament to go visiting and that he could cope with a bit of rough petting."

Ann and Simba make numerous visits in the Harrogate area, including St Michael's Hospice and a number of care homes. She's also worked with the Stroke Association and with an autistic girl who has a dog phobia.

So what do people get out of a visit from Simba? "Many of the people we see have had pets of their own but because of their current circumstances they don't now. Its only natural when you've had animals that you miss them. They get unconditional love and affection from Simba, he'll sit and listen to them, let them cuddle and pet him. I think it gives people great comfort."

Ann Burrell with award-winning Simba

Simba is a popular visitor wherever he goes as Ann explains, "At St Michael's Hospice, which is such a wonderful place full of love and laughter, they are even planning to put a picture of Simba on their volunteers wall!"

There are currently 114,000 people benefiting from pet therapy every week in the UK. Ruth Boyes, is the North Yorkshire Coordinator and Assessor for Pets As Therapy, "We are always looking for new volunteers and establishments. It's also important that people realise it's not just dogs that can take part in the scheme, but cats too."

Ruth also supports Ann's view of how rewarding the scheme is for the volunteers, "I'm often really humbled by the animals. They can walk into a room in a hospital or care home and you can feel the atmosphere change. It's terribly rewarding."

Simba won Pets as Therapy's PAT Dog of the Year award this year. The dog was praised for his friendly nature and ability to help calm people. Ann is delighted with the award and keen to say how much she enjoys travelling around Harrogate with Simba, "I love it. It gives me huge pleasure. I get to meet an amazing range of different people."