ALMOST a year on from waving goodbye to beloved pioneer reading dog, Toby, an Isle of Wight woman has welcomed another bearded collie into her home.
Trisha Owen’s 18-year-old bearded collie, Toby, died back in 2021.
Once a show dog, Toby found new life in retirement through the Read2Dog scheme, helping children at Ryde Academy develop their confidence and ability with a book in hand.
In the wake of his death, Trisha couldn’t imagine she would ever have another dog, but time heals all wounds.
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“Toby had such a presence, I couldn’t bring another boy into my house,” said Trisha.
“Through charity Beardies in Need I was messaged a picture and asked if I was interested, so off I went to Cleobury Mortimer, and back I came with Indi.
“She was a hit at Island Vets, and met Sue Hemmings at Pets at Rest, who also approved.
“Two weeks after I got her, she had her tenth birthday, which is good for me as I have just had my 80th.
“With my past cancer, her age is just right.
“Last month we travelled to the mainland and met with an assessor from Therapy Dogs Nationwide.
“She didn’t put a paw wrong and sailed through the assessment, ticked all the boxes, and got a glowing report.”
Indi – or rather Lindy Lou, as Trisha has renamed her – is already doing meet and greets.
“When we went to the vets last week, she went round introducing herself,” said Trisha.
“She is an absolute sweetheart, and the most obedient dog I have ever had.”
Trisha is keen to hear from anyone who has any ideas on where to take Lindy Lou.
“You have to ease them in slowly, doing care homes,” said Trisha.
“We could give a talk at a school, to go over what having a Paws and Read dog entails, and after about three month she could slowly be introduced to classes.”
If you know a place that would like a visit, email [email protected] or call 07522 444 592.
