Clever temperament needed to become a therapy dog

A dog breeder has donated a Labrador puppy she describes as “special” to support older and vulnerable people through our therapy dog service. Julia Bowes has gifted the puppy, called Billy, to us. She recognised that he had the calm, clever temperament needed to become a therapy dog.

Billy has just completed his training and has been signed off as a therapy dog. Now, he joins our much-loved team of dogs who bring companionship, comfort and reassurance to people supported by Caremark.

Julia has bred Retrievers, Labradors, Cocker Spaniels and Border Terriers for over 15 years. Six of our current Labrador therapy dogs, who are owned by Caremark Redcar and Cleveland Managing Director Michelle Jackson, all came via her breeding.

“I knew Billy was special and I had offers on him, and I just thought, no,” she says.

“When I rang Michelle, I said come and see him and then we discussed it. I said you can take him and I will gift him to Caremark.”

Billy has all the qualities needed for a therapy dog

For Julia, the decision was about more than generosity. She felt Billy had exactly the qualities needed for the role.

“I knew that he would make a fabulous dog with Caremark,” she said. “He was a lovely, clever, calm boy.”

Billy’s name also carries personal meaning. Julia said one of her original Labradors was also called Billy — a gentle dog she remembers with great affection.

“My first Billy was the absolute gentleman of a dog,” she said. “He was such a gentle soul, so it’s lovely his name is now being carried forward.”

Julia understands the difference the dogs make

The link between Julia’s family and Caremark Redcar and Cleveland extends beyond the dogs. Her son’s partner, Demi Perkins, works as a Care Assistant with the organisation and also helps with the therapy dogs.

Michelle Jackson, Managing Director of Caremark Redcar and Cleveland, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Julia for gifting Billy to us. It is a generous gesture. However, more than that, it shows how much she understands the difference our therapy dogs make to the people we support.”

“Billy already has the calm and reassuring nature we look for and did so well in his training.

“The dogs bring so much comfort, companionship and joy, and Billy will help us continue offering that special support to older and vulnerable people across our community.”

Julia runs a Facebook page where people can follow updates about her dogs.

About Caremark Redcar and Cleveland

If you, or someone you know, would benefit from canine therapy, please view our dog therapy service in Redcar and Cleveland. Or call us today on 01287 634706.