Our charity, Canine Concern, was established in 1988 by Eve Waring, who had seen how important dog visits were to the elderly and lonely.

In the years that have followed, Canine Concern has continued to provide care dog visits to those who may benefit the most from our service, such as care homes, hospitals, work places and schools.

The medical profession endorses our findings that allowing animals, especially dogs, into hospitals brings comfort to long-stay patients and those vulnerable to loneliness and depression.

As a charity, we rely on a team of trusted volunteers, who take part in our visits with their dogs, as well as support and donations from members of the public and corporations, so that we can continue our work for many years to come.

We are ambitious for the future, hoping that our service will reach many who will benefit from it, however our ambition is to not over expand as we believe in being a happy, supportive group where every member is special and important.

We encourage members from all walks of life to join our team, and whatever your individual needs may be, you will be supported by our charity, which is like a strong, caring family. Having members who can bring their own experiences with them will only enhance the service we provide and make our care dog visits more empathetic.

Our joining fees for our volunteers are purposefully kept low, in order that anyone on any income can join us. We always welcome donations and legacies, but do not actively push this as we feel our work should come first.

There are many people in hospitals, residential homes or living alone who are no longer in a position to care for pets and miss their companionship greatly. So if you have an hour to spare each week or fortnight and would like to share the joy your dog gives you with others who are less fortunate, please join us at Canine Concern.