Volunteer profile: Louise and Friendship Dog Bronte

I’ve been volunteering with Wag & Company for three years now alongside my beautiful six-year-old cockapoo, Bronte.

In 2013, I received a lifesaving heart transplant at the Freeman Hospital – a second chance at life that I will never, ever take for granted. From that moment on, I made a promise to myself that I would give something back. I knew I wanted to use this precious gift of time to make a difference to others.

I began volunteering with the Freeman Heart & Lung Transplant Association at the hospital where I received my amazing new heart. But it was also very important to me to help tackle loneliness in later life. I became involved with Re-engage, helping to organise monthly tea parties for guests who might otherwise go days without meaningful conversation or connection.

It was during one of these conversations that another volunteer mentioned how she took her dog to visit an elderly gentleman through Wag & Company. Instantly, something clicked. My love of dogs and my desire to ease loneliness came together in the most perfect way.

We have three dogs who are such a huge part of our family, but Bronte was the one truly suited to this role. She adores people, thrives on affection, and seems to sense exactly when someone needs a gentle cuddle. When she was old enough – and sensible enough! – I had her assessed as a Friendship Dog, and our journey began.

Over the years, we’ve visited three different friends, each one special in their own way. We currently spend time with the lovely Jean and Dave. Dave is deaf and has many health challenges, and a year ago they lost their beloved hearing dog, Connie. Losing her left a huge space in their lives. Bronte will never replace Connie – nor should she – but the comfort she brings is undeniable. The way Jean and Dave’s faces soften when she settles beside them, the quiet joy in simply stroking her fur, the shared smiles – it’s incredibly moving.

I know that the time we spend together each week means so much to them. And truthfully, it means just as much to me. To sit in someone’s home and know that you are helping to ease that ache of loneliness, even for a little while, is something very powerful.

Alongside volunteering, I run my own dog training business, K9 Konnectiions, and over the past year, I’ve also had the privilege of helping to assess new Friendship Dogs for Wag. Meeting the wonderful dogs – and the equally wonderful people behind them – reminds me again and again why this charity is so special.

Wag & Company holds a very special place in my heart. My time can feel stretched at times, but I never once question whether to go on a visit.

After being given a second chance at life, being able to use it to bring comfort, companionship and connection to others feels like the most meaningful way I could possibly say thank you.

Thank you, Lou, for all you do for people in our community and for Wag too!