IN RESPONSE to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to support people in their own homes, Denbighshire Community Support Services set up a volunteering service to help take the pressure off traditional services.

The “Edge of Care” team help people all across the county.

Jackie is an Edge Of Care volunteer, and has a special friend who accompanies her on her home visits - her dog named Maisie.

Maisie is the youngest volunteer on the team, and is almost three years old (in human years).

She is less than two feet high, but is a great stress reliever and help to the citizens she visits weekly.

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The Australian Labradoodle is extremely well-behaved, and loves nothing more than receiving treats and being fussed.

While on home visits, Jackie has a cup of tea with the citizen and chats about their day and any needs they may have, while Maisie gladfully receives some well-deserved treats.

Jackie said: “We rescued her and to be honest she has rescued me too. I’ve had her for nearly two years now.

“Maisie never misses her visits, and we even visited a citizen on Christmas Day, so they could spend time with her.

“She’s a really calm dog and that’s why she is great when she comes along with me.”

Maisie has quickly become best friends with the members of the service and the citizens she supports.

A Prestatyn citizen who has regular visits from both Jackie and Maisie said: “I am very glad for her coming, I feel like we have both saved each other in a way.

“Maisie has helped me with confidence, and I go out of the house more now.

“Maisie has turned my life around. I was missing that dog connection, as I’ve always had a dog. I felt very alone, and I’d give Jackie and her little dog a 10/10.

“I am always glad to see Maisie, and I feel like she has taken a lot of the pain away.

“I have a photo of Maisie and I together, and everyone remarks on it when they see it. So as long as you’re a dog lover, anyone would love Maisie’s company.”

Jackie, Maisie and this citizen are planning ahead to the summer, and are looking at going on some walks together once the weather picks up.