AN Evesham woman who uses her dog as alternative therapy as part of the Pets as Therapy scheme, PAT, to help hospital patients and residents in sheltered homes is urging more animal lovers to join her.

Margaret Bramall, from Ferry View, Evesham, has worked with PAT for the past nine years and believes dogs are vital in uplifting a person's mood - especially when they are unwell.

The 61-year-old volunteer said: "Dogs are incredibly loveable creatures especially for anyone that is feeling low. I know this as I've seen the expression on a person's face change immediately when they're visited by a dog."

PAT was formed in 1983 after a group of volunteers saw the negative effects patients and residents suffered when they had to leave their beloved pets behind

PAT chief executive Maureen Hennis joined the organisation as a volunteer back in 1983 when she used to take her own dog to visit residents in care homes and has remained there ever since because of the satisfaction the job brings.

"When PAT dogs go into hospitals or care homes they offer patients a lot of affection. The affects of these animals on patients go a very long way. PAT dogs make life easier for staff working in residential homes as patients are a lot brighter and relaxed. It also gives the patient or resident something to talk about with their relatives.

Maureen said: "I love working here, its such a rewarding job. I used to go and visit a woman in a care home and whenever she saw my dog the first thing she would always say was, 'there's my ray of sunshine, this is what I live for'. That's what makes it worth staying here."

The scheme, in its 23rd year, ensures volunteers with dogs are available to go out and visit patients in hospitals and residential homes throughout the Vale.

Although this scheme has turned out to be a success more dogs are still needed to continue the work carried out by PAT volunteers.

"We always need more dogs to carry on with the work we do. PAT is not looking for a specific type of dog - all dogs are welcome to join once an assessment has been undertaken.

"Our volunteers and PAT dogs also work with adults and children who have a phobia of dogs," added Maureen.

Margaret, who has two Golden Retrievers, Charlie, aged nine, and Sam, aged five, assesses each dog on its temperament and ability to interact with patients.

"I always carry out these assessments on mutual grounds - not in the owner's home as the report I have to submit focuses on how a dog will act in different situations.

"I usually assess the dogs in my home."

The volunteer completes an application form detailing how the dog reacts to different noises and instructions.

Doris Cameron, a resident living in Bewdley Court, is always glad when Margaret makes a visit after she agreed not to have any pets when moving into sheltered housing in Evesham.

Mrs Cameron said: "I really enjoy it when Margaret and her dog comes to visit us I absolutely adore dogs."

To get in contact with Pets as Therapy call 08702401239 or email reception@petsastherapy or go to the website www.petsastherapy.org.