Billy the Staffordshire bull terrier represents Pets As Therapy at Crufts

Billy, who was abandoned as a stray three years ago, is helping to promote the work of Pets As Therapy (PAT), which provides therapeutic visits to hospitals, hospices, care homes and schools.

His owner, Angela Wheldon, who lives in Yedingham, said Billy had been extremely badly treated when he was left at the East Riding Council dog compound before he was taken in by Ryedale Dog Rescue.

“Billy was emaciated and near death’s door,” she said. “He is a grand dog and loves the work he does with people of all ages.”

Angela said Billy was chosen by her 14-year-old adopted daughter Britany and has helped the teenager overcome problems she has faced.

“We are aware how animals help with a lot of anxiety and self-esteem issues because they aren’t judgmental,” she said. “Brit fell in love with him and she wanted to take him to dog training and she thought PAT was a nice idea after I suggested it because he could help other children the way he helped her.”

After training and an assessment, Billy started working with PAT and now visits Ashfield residential home, in Malton, on a weekly basis.

Britany Wheldon and her mother, Angela, with their dog, Billy who has been chosen to promote Pets as Therapy, at Crufts dog show

“It is amazing the response we get from many of the elderly people, particularly those with dementia who love having Billy there,” Angela said. “Billy really helps cheer everyone up.”

Angela said Billy was selected from animals across the country involved in PAT to promote the work of the charity at Crufts, the world’s largest dog show, at the NEC Birmingham on Friday. She said: “Staffordshire bull terriers often get bad press ,but Billy has shown what a good family pet he can be and also what a fantastic ambassador for PAT.”

For more information about Ryedale Dog Rescue visit ryedaledogrescue.com or phone 07581 324153. To find out more about Pets As Therapy, visit petsastherapy.org