RESIDENTS of Victoria Court in Abergavenny relished the chance to get up close and personal with poodle, Rudy recently as part of a seasonal visit from charity, Pets as Therapy.

Resident, Ann Phillips said, ‘I used to have pets; dogs, cats, chickens, even a pig once, so it has been lovely to have the dog visit. I miss the companionship of a dog. You can talk and they don’t answer back.’

Melin homes chief executive, Paula Kennedy said, ‘The festive season can be a stressful time for some so this is a lovely addition to our scheme social events.’