When Penny the dog’s owner passed away in August this year things were looking glum for the friendly Spaniel.
But little did the Golden Cocker know that residents of the Carnoustie care home where she had been staying would decide to keep her on as a four-legged resident.
Now the care home pet has been repaying the favour to the kind Brookfield residents, delivering Christmas gifts this week.
Home manager Sarah-Jane Patterson said: “Penny spreads cheer among all of us, and we’re particularly excited about her first Christmas with us.
“She really is a joy to have around. The response from visitors and the community has been superb.
“One taxi driver even donated his fares to her cause, that’s how much she is loved.”
Sarah-Jane said Penny has her own care plan. The dog’s food, exercise needs and veterinary visits are logged in the care home system, which staff can access from hand-held portable devices.
“We treat her like any of our other residents and make sure her needs are taken care of,” she said.
The Golden Cocker Spaniel was left an orphan in August when her owner, who kept Penny at the home, passed away.
When no family members came forward to take care of her, staff at the home decided to put the dog’s future out to a staff and resident vote.
They decided unanimously to adopt the big-hearted Spaniel.
Sarah-Jane said: “Penny is not just a pal to residents, she’s the talk of Carnoustie. “Regular visitors to the home seek her out and take her for a walk in the grounds for a treat.”
Nancy Wilson, 89, a resident at Balhousie Brookfield and originally from Carnoustie, said: “Penny just makes the home a happier place. Everyone loves her, including the postie
“And she’s so friendly, she just goes to everyone.”
The home and the local community have been taking contributions to help with her upkeep, including a £200 crowdfunding drive to pay for vet visits.
But Sarah Jane said there was one thing Penny still desperately needed – a haircut.
“She could really do with a visit to the groomer, so if Santa is listening, maybe he can make Penny’s Christmas wish come true,” the manager added.
