Volunteer profile: Ria and Friendship Dog Oskar

Having moved to the North East 13 years ago with my Springador, Jasper,  I started volunteering for Guide Dogs for the Blind as a Sighted Guide whilst my little girl was a toddler. Unfortunately, as children grow, so do their out-of-school activities, and as my free time lessened, I had to give up my role with Guide Dogs.

Fast forward (far too fast) 8 years, and following the sad loss of Jasper in 2021, we couldn’t manage without a dog’s presence in the house, so I surprised my daughter with Oskar on Christmas Eve that same year.

What can I say about Oskar… If ever there was a dog born to make people smile, it’s him. Full of personality, affection & charm, he’s at his happiest when surrounded by people with a big helping of attention. With his expressive face, famous side-eye glances, and gentle nature, it seemed selfish to keep him to ourselves. After some research, we decided Wag & Company would be an ideal charity for our next volunteering chapter.

Although nerve-racking – was I wearing rose-tinted glasses, could my boy be as suitable as I believed, would everyone love him as much as me – the assessment process was simple, calm and fully explained to me both before and during the appointment. The temperament criteria were nothing to worry about – living in a house with children, most of the items were already ticked – and he passed with flying colours.

Oskar has always been much more than my companion, a source of laughter whose enthusiasm for life is impossible not to share. He has such a gentle way about him, loves a cuddle and knows exactly how to make someone feel special – a true Friendship Dog.

We have only been volunteering with Wag & Company since April this year, and we regularly visit two ladies in their own homes each week.  Over tea and treats, we share stories, enjoy company and, of course, the warmth and happiness a dog can bring to their homes. Oskar understands each visit is different, our 98-year-old Friday visit provides a reason to smile, laugh and a comforting presence whilst reminiscing about her own dogs over the years as he sits on ‘Nana’s’ lap.  Monday’s visit is a welcome distraction and comforting presence with laughter at his cheeky, playful side – both are amazing connections in only a short time, and I look forward to watching them grow as time goes on.

Wag volunteering has been such a rewarding experience, even more so than I thought. It’s lovely to see the difference our visits can make, and it costs me nothing more than a few hours a week of my time.

The bond between people and animals is powerful, and Wag demonstrates that, every time you walk through the door, something ordinary turns into something memorable.

Being able to share your dog with someone else feels special – I’m so proud of my boy and the team we’ve become.