Through a partnership with Camvet, beagle Chappy joins the family, stepping into a very important role.

Whiddon Laurieton director Care Services, George Fotoulis, said pets can play an important role in improving wellbeing for residents.

“Pets can bring great joy, comfort and familiarity to residents. Through having pets in our homes, residents can feel less lonely, depressed and anxious,” George said.

“They are also a great talking point when friends and family come to visit, so they can help increase social connection.

“Many of our residents kept pets in the past; having them at Whiddon can be very comforting and meaningful to them. From sitting with them, to helping with their care and exercise, there are many ways pets such as Chappy can make a difference to their lives every day.

“Chappy has already started to settle into the family. We know he will be much-loved and bring happiness into our home.

“We plan for Chappy to spend a lot of time with our dementia residents who can particularly benefit from having pets around.”

Chappy is a male Beagle, bred by established local breeders Reg and Jon from Warringah Farm Kennels at John’s River. 

“Camvet is partnering with us to provide Chappy’s ongoing care and retired dog trainer and handler Rhonda Cameron, who is one of our residents, will help with his six week training program. We are very grateful for their support and value the strong partnerships with our community that can bring many benefits to those we care for,” said George.

Camvet owner Gavin Rippon said partnering with Whiddon to introduce Chappy was fitting.

“Many local people who have been pet owners were clients of Camvet in the past. Some are now residents of the Whiddon Group in Laurieton,” he said.

“It’s nice to know that through my support they will still have the love and companionship that comes from having a pet in their lives.”

To further help with costs of training, care and equipment for Chappy, Whiddon Laurieton and Camvet are holding an Easter Raffle with great prizes kindly donated from the community:

Raffle tickets can be purchased from Camvet or Whiddon Laurieton. Winners will be drawn on April 13 and contacted by phone.