Introducing Emily and Cooper!
At Dogs for Health, we love celebrating the incredible work of our volunteers and their therapy dogs. This week, we’re catching up with Emily to learn more about her journey as a volunteer and the heartwarming impact she and her lively dachshund, Cooper, are making.
Getting Started with Dogs for Health
Q: How long have you been a volunteer with Dogs for Health?
Emily: I’ve been a volunteer for six months now, and it’s been such a rewarding experience. Time has flown by, and I’ve loved every moment of it.
Q: Why did you decide to volunteer with Dogs for Health?
Emily: I work in the SEN (Special Educational Needs) department of a school, so I’ve seen firsthand how much therapy dogs can make a difference in people’s lives. When I went to pick up Cooper as a puppy, I saw him interact with a child with autism, and it was such a special moment. That was when I knew I wanted to do more with him—something meaningful. Volunteering with Dogs for Health felt like the perfect way to channel that.
Meet Cooper: The Therapy Dachshund
Q: Do you have a dog of your own?
Emily: Yes, I have Cooper! He’s a little dachshund with a big personality. He’s lively and playful but also loves his cuddles. He’s so affectionate and friendly—it’s amazing to see how much joy he brings to the people we visit. He’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Q: What’s your favourite breed of dog and why?
Emily: It has to be dachshunds! They’re adorable with their little legs and big personalities. They’re cheeky, funny, and full of character. Plus, they’re such great companions, always ready for an adventure or a snuggle.
The Volunteering Experience
Q: How would you describe your volunteering experience in three words?
Emily: Rewarding, uplifting, and special. Each visit is unique, but those three words really sum up how volunteering feels to me.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment from your time volunteering?
Emily: There’s one resident we visit who was really nervous about being around Cooper at first. They wouldn’t even reach out to pet him. But slowly, visit by visit, they started to warm up to him. Now, they love having him right by their side. Watching that transformation has been incredible—it’s those little breakthroughs that mean so much.
Q: What’s your favourite aspect of being a Dogs for Health volunteer?
Emily: It’s definitely seeing the difference Cooper makes in people’s lives. Meeting new people and watching Cooper interact with them just fills me with pride. He brings so much happiness to every visit, and seeing that is incredibly rewarding.
Advice and Inspiration
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering?
Emily: Go for it! You won’t regret it. It’s such a fulfilling experience for both you and your dog. Every visit feels like you’re making a real difference, no matter how small it might seem.
Q: If you could give a therapy dog one superpower, what would it be?
Emily: Mind reading! It would be amazing if therapy dogs could sense exactly when someone needs a little extra love or support. Although, to be honest, they’re already pretty good at doing that naturally!
What Keeps Emily Motivated
Q: What inspires you to keep volunteering?
Emily: I’ve lived in Frome most of my life, and I’ve seen how challenging life can be for some people. Seeing how much support and kindness can help makes me want to do my bit. It’s about giving back to the community that I’ve been a part of for so long.
Q: What’s your wish for Dogs for Health?
Emily: I’d love to see more people step up and volunteer. Even a short visit can make a huge difference for someone who’s struggling. There’s so much need out there, and I truly believe more therapy dogs and volunteers could help meet it.
Life Outside of Volunteering
Q: What do you do outside of volunteering?
Emily: I work at a local school in the SEN department, which keeps me busy, but I love it. Outside of work, I enjoy walking with Cooper, spending time outdoors, and relaxing on the sofa with a good book. Those quiet moments with Cooper curled up beside me are some of my favourites.
Thank You, Emily and Cooper!
Emily and Cooper are a shining example of the powerful impact therapy dogs and their owners can make. Their warmth, dedication, and kindness inspire us every day, and we’re so grateful to have them as part of the Dogs for Health team.
Do you feel inspired to join us? Learn more about how you can become a volunteer or support our work here.