A fur-miliar friend - Local care home hires new ‘Canine Relations Manager’

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

The adorable Smudge, a Cockerpoo, has joined the team at Care UK’s Bickerton House, on Warfield Road, as ‘Canine Relations Manager’– his duties include being on hand for residents to fuss, walk, or simply spend time with.

 

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 Smudge can also help them find a sense of purpose later in life.

Smudge has pleased everyone with his ability to work alongside his owner, Home Manager Erika Smith, and quickly brightens every room he visits, despite the fact that he is new to the position.

The friendly pooch 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.

Jen Shaw a resident at Bickerton House said: “I thoroughly enjoy Smudge visiting the home because of his cuddles and company. I have had dogs when I was younger including a golden spaniel, golden retriever and a mongrel. My favorite thing about dogs is their friendship.”

Erika Smith, Home Manager at Bickerton House, said: “We have seen other Care UK homes appoint their own canine colleagues and I knew my dog would be perfect to take up the role at Bickerton House. Smudge can often be found being fussed over by a resident – the home simply wouldn’t be the same without him.

 

“Studies have shown that introducing dogs into care homes can help lift people’s mood and increase social interaction. The human-animal bond is powerful in promoting self-esteem and wellbeing, and ‘Canine Relation Managers’ like Smudge, are brilliant at doing this.

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

Bickerton House has been designed to encourage residents to live active and fulfilling lives, while remaining as independent as possible in a safe environment. The state-of-the-art care home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, and features a bar and café, cinema, hair salon, activities room and garden.

For more information about Bickerton House, please call Customer Relations Manager, Jo Anderson on 01344 989943 or email Jo.Anderson@careuk.com, or visit careuk.com/bickerton-house.