You may have heard of therapy dogs, cats and even horses and alpacas whose calm and soothing natures make them ideal caring animals for people. But how about therapy sheep? Izzy and Ida are a pair of Valais Blacknose who were a vital support to their 25-year-old owner as she battled cancer.
Hannah Russell was diagnosed with stage three sarcoma in 2019 and skin cancer a year later. She underwent six operations and radiotherapy over a two-year spell, which took a huge toll on both her physical and mental health. Hannah, an author, already owned many animals including a miniature Shetland called Alf, but had always wanted her own sheep.
After researching therapy animals online, she realised they could lift her spirits and help her cope with her gruelling treatment. Izzy and Ida joined her on the family’s smallholding in the Yorkshire Dales last year.
Hannah, whose cancer went into remission in June, described the pair - whose small black faces and soft white fleece have seen them described as the cutest sheep in the world - as being like "big dog".
"It’s been a tough few years for me, but Izzy and Ida have provided endless therapy and enjoyment especially on the hard days. They both have big characters, and love to play and are so much fun because they are so bouncy.
"I’ve always loved animals and all things outdoors, and being surrounded by them all has really helped me."
Ever since Izzy and Ida came to live with Hannah last year she has shared their exploits online, with her videos reaching 72 million views globally on her blog Hannah, Little Alf and Friends.
"I post daily videos of them online and that they have gone viral is just crazy. They really gave me a new focus when I needed one the most, and I can't imagine having coped with my illness without them."
WAGONY AUNT
Dogs Trust expert Dr Rachel Casey answers your canine conundrums
My dog always barks at other dogs on walks. What can I do to stop her?
There are broadly two reasons why dogs bark at other dogs. They could be excited and want to go and say ‘hello’ or play. But it could be because they are worried by other dogs, and they have learnt that barking keeps them away.
In the first instance, make an appointment with your vet so they can check there are no medical issues affecting her behaviour. You vet can refer you to a behaviourist who can help identify the reasons for barking and provide a tailored treatment programme.
In the meantime, think about where and when you walk her. Try to avoid other dogs as much as possible to prevent the behaviour worsening before you start treatment.
Can you walk earlier or later, or find somewhere where you can avoid other dogs?
You need to keep far enough away from other dogs that she doesn’t bark or pull towards them.
Take her favourite treats and use these to reward her for keeping calm with her attention on you.
This will help her learn that other dogs are nothing to be concerned about and looking at you instead is the best thing she can do.
If you see other dogs approaching, take a wide berth, and take action, such as crossing the road before she starts to react. Look out for the warning signs that she is starting to become worried.
Calmly and quietly lead away from the other dog, and once she has settled down you can start getting her attention on you again and reward her for being calm and walking on a loose lead.
If a dog approaches unexpectedly, don’t panic and guide her away as quickly as you can.
As soon as she is calm and attention back on you again, you can reward again.
For more information and expert advice, visit dogstrust.org.uk. Do you have a question for Rachel? Email petclub@mirror.co.uk
CATS CORNER
Lost pedigree cat Bella and her newborn kittens had a lucky escape after being found in an electrical substation in Southampton, sheltering amid leaves, cobwebs and rubbish.
Bella, a three-year-old grey-blue British Shorthair had tucked her four babies safely away from the elements under the protective cover of a cabinet housing electrical equipment.
They were taken immediately to a local Cats Protection branch, where staff scanned Bella’s microchip and reunited her with her owners.
PET PIC
TV gardener Monty Don has been posting pictures on social media of his adorable new puppy Ned. Monty, 67, brought the golden retriever home in Hereford earlier this month, to join Nellie, who is also a golden retriever, and Patti, a Yorkshire terrier.
The dogs will be familiar to Monty’s viewers on Gardener’s World, along with his beloved retriever Nigel, who passed away in 2020.
Monty chose the new puppy on September 9, the day after the Queen died. He said: "On a day when we are sharing a deep sense of sadness and loss, I went to choose the new bright, innocent and irresistibly charming member of our family, replacing Nigel."
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