Veteran and pet therapy dog duo recognised as Soldiering on Award finalists

We are delighted to announce that Barry Coarse and Bella, his pet therapy dog, were recognised as finalists of the Soldiering On Award’s ‘Animal Partnership Category’.

Interacting with animals and the human-animal bond is well documented and has many psychological, physiological and social benefits. It often comes as a surprise that something as seemingly simple as fussing over a pet can help a veteran with PTSD. Yet the difference animals can make is staggering. It can help them feel more relaxed, positive and calm. The emotional connection with an animal can bring incredible comfort, even in the toughest of times.

Recognising the importance of this, Barry Coarse and his pet therapy dog, a Bichon Frise named Bella, regularly visited veterans at Tyrwhitt House prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic. With Bella described as having a ‘natural instinct’ for recognising when someone needs support, the positive impact the pair have had on veterans struggling with their mental health has been profound

Barry Coarse, said: “We are honoured and so proud to have been nominated for this amazing award. Recognition for the work we do has been overwhelming. “We feel privileged to have met so many incredible finalists and gain an insight into the incredible work they do within the Military community. “Being a veteran has to be the best club in the world, and we’re so lucky to be able to make a difference within it.”

Update: 

The following year (2021), in recognition of their efforts, Barry and Bella were announced as winners in the Animal Partnership Category. We are incredibly grateful to the pair, who continue to support us to this day.  

More information about the Soldiering On Awards can be found here.