A fur-bulous addition to the team! Local care home hires new ‘Director of Canine Relations’

A Solihull care home has officially welcomed a new team member – and he’s set to be a hit with residents and colleagues alike.   

The adorable Harley, a five-year-old cockapoo, has joined the team at Care UK’s Blossomfield Grange, on Worcester Way, as ‘Director of Canine Relations’ – his duties include being on hand for walks around the home, cuddles and games. 

 

Having a dog spend time in the care home not only encourages residents to get outdoors, walking their canine companion, leading to physical benefits, but taking care of Harley can also help them find a sense of purpose later in life. Despite being new to the role, Harley has impressed everyone with his ability to instantly brighten the room whenever he walks in. 

Harley, who is registered with Pets As Therapy (PAT), a national charity that aims to enhance health and wellbeing by providing pet companionship, has even developed his own management style, taking tours of the home and checking in on everyone – as well as helping to bring back happy memories of pets in younger years for many residents.

Heather James, General Manager at Blossomfield Grange, added: “Everyone here at Blossomfield Grange has fallen in love with Harley – so we’re delighted to give him the well-deserved title of Director of Canine Relations and officially welcome him to the team!

“Being in the company of animals has proven therapeutic benefits for older people, particularly for those living with dementia, as it can reduce anxiety, release calming endorphins, and decrease feelings of loneliness. The human-animal bond is powerful in promoting self-esteem and wellbeing, and ‘Director of Canine Relation Managers’ like Harley, are brilliant at doing this. 

 

“Welcome to the team, Harley, we already can’t imagine life without you!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Blossomfield Grange, which remains open to potential residents, incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The building has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.

For more information on Blossomfield Grange, please call Director of Community Relations, Jo Hopkins, on 0121 392 7833, email Jo.Hopkins@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/blossomfield-grange.