ANIMAL-LOVING residents of a care home have been given the chance to try their hand at dog grooming as part of on-going pet therapy sessions at the home.

Residents of Field View in Blackhall, near Peterlee, spent an afternoon with Pet Assisted Therapy (Pat) springer spaniel Tilly and her owner, Pet Therapist Judith Boyle of the North East Pet Therapy Service.

They enjoyed pampering the pooch by grooming her, as well as giving her cuddles and treats.

She also visited the rooms of some residents for one-to-one sessions with those less comfortable in group settings.

The visit was the latest in an on-going programme of animal therapy at Field View, a residential care home for the elderly which also provides specialist care for people living with dementia. The home has also welcomed visits from mobile zoos and miniature horses, and holds an annual Crufts-style competition for the pets of staff residents’ family members.

Anyone interested in their befriending or pet therapy sessions should can Ms Boyle on 07909006554 or visit the North East Befriending Service Facebook page.