Introduced to the home by his owner and Head of Dementia Care, Annamarie, Watson is a 6-month-old Cockalier, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel dog breed.  

Living up to his namesake detective from Sherlock Holmes, Watson has been busy with plenty of investigating and exploring of his own in the new surroundings.

Annamarie decided to bring Watson into the home at the earliest opportunity as she was keen for him to be a PAT (Pets As Therapy) dog.

Reflecting on a hectic few months for her and Watson, Annamarie said: “I have wanted another dog for a while, but I liked the idea of them having a purpose as a therapy dog. Working at Grace Care Centre, I have seen first hand the benefits that pets can have on emotional wellbeing for residents. It has been amazing to see that on an even closer level with Watson.”

Annamarie also revealed that it’s not just the residents who have benefited: “Watson is always very excited as we approach Grace Care Centre and seeing the residents and team here is genuinely the highlight of his day. He particularly loves spending time on our dementia household as he gets a lot of attention – I have never seen a tail wag so fast!”