Therapy dogs are bringing joy to patients, visitors and staff at East Cheshire Hospice.
The sight of a cute canine helps put a smile on the faces of families enduring a difficult time.
Border collie Jack has been visiting the inpatient unit and Sunflower Living Well Centre with owner Barry Chopping for more than three years.
His late brother-in-law Raymond Barnes was cared for by the Hospice and he wanted to give something back.
Barry said: “Raymond ended his days at the Hospice and it’s a nice way for me to contribute as a volunteer.
“Jack enjoys his visits to the Hospice. Once he sees me getting out his Pets As Therapy jacket, he gets excited and starts jumping about because he knows we’re going to work.
“You’d be surprised how many of those at the Hospice have had dogs. I ask people if they like them and if not, we move on – I realise it’s not for everyone.
“Most patients like to engage with Jack. It’s a tactile thing, like giving him a biscuit and it might remind them of their own dogs.
“It’s a short break from the situation they’re in. I’ve had 11 dogs over the years. Jack is about the best I’ve had. He’s a youthful nine and obedient.
“Collies are a working breed and keen to work. They need a purpose because they’re bright dogs.”
Henrik, a 10-year-old Italian Spinone, also makes regular Hospice visits through the charity Pets As Therapy (PAT).
The gun dog also visits Prestbury Beaumont Care Community and Adlington Primary School where pupils read to him as part of a Read2Dogs scheme.
These sessions help children improve literacy skills and their interest and enjoyment of reading.
Henrik even has his own Instagram page run by owner John Berry, from Macclesfield.
John said: “Henrik is very gentle with an innate ability to bring joy and calm to people of any age.
“He’s a great companion and highly affectionate with a social temperament around people and other dogs.
“He’s brought a lot of happiness to me, and PAT has given me an opportunity to share that joy with others in the community.
“He’s content to sit quietly and enjoys being petted by a Hospice patient, an elderly care home resident, or children in a classroom or playground.
“Witnessing the lovely smiles and comments Henrik receives from everyone is really pleasing for me.”
