A MALVERN widow has spoken about the importance of older people having a four-legged friend as a companion and her delight at finding a property in the town which allowed pets.
Wendy Bennett, 79, who wanted to raise awareness as part of National Pet Month, lost her husband Geoff in 2015 when he was 91.
She lived in Kennilworth at the time but wanted to be nearer her daughter in Malvern.
Her main concern was that she may have to move without Leo, her German Spitz who was seven at the time.
But Audley Villages’ Ellerslie accommodation had spaces available which allowed residents to keep pets.
Since then she has not looked back.
She said: “Malvern is such a lovely area – everyone is so friendly and where we live is within walking distance of the town centre where we have a bank, post office and everything you could ever need.
“Also where we live, there is a huge common and we are right opposite the hill so Leo is in doggy heaven.
“I walk him three times-a-day for an hour each – we go out to get the paper in the morning, then once mid-morning and again later in the day.
“We both love it here.”
Wendy said the accommodation itself was also perfect.
“It is a flat so it is manageable and he makes for a good guard dog – barking if anyone comes into the hallway.
“My neighbours all used to be dog owners as well so they look after him if I have to go away for a few days.
“And it is so nice to have someone to come back to.
“I think having a dog is so important for older people and it is great that they can do here.
“I used to be involved in amateur dramatics and get bored if I have nothing to do – he helps fill the day and the walks keep us both fit.”
