Flozzie, Teddie & Me

Teddie, Flozzie, and Me: An Unforgettable Volunteering Tale

Hi everyone! Kerry here, and I wanted to share a really special experience that's been warming my heart lately. Back in October, I decided to take a leap and apply to volunteer. If you haven't heard of them, they're an absolutely wonderful charity dedicated to helping elderly people keep their beloved pets at home.

The Cinnamon Trust was founded in 1985 by Mrs. Averil Jarvis, who was herself a dog owner and was worried about what would happen to her beloved dog when she passed away. She realised that many elderly people face the same dilemma, and so she set up the charity to provide a safety net. Volunteers like me step in to help with dog walking and other pet care needs when owners are unable to.

Fast forward to March, and I received a heartwarming call – I had been matched with a lovely lady who, due to an illness (one of those invisible ones that make daily life a challenge), needed a helping hand with her two young, energetic French Bulldogs. Meet Teddie, the 5-year-old protector, and Flozzie, his 6-year-old companion! These two Frenchies are quite the pair, with Teddie always looking out for his older sister.

French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they're affectionately known, are known for their charming personalities and distinctive looks. They're typically playful, alert, and affectionate dogs, often forming strong bonds with their families. With their big bat-like ears, expressive faces, and compact, muscular build, they have a unique appeal. While they can be a bit stubborn at times, their loving nature and desire to please usually win out, making them wonderful companions.

My Weekly Dog-Walking Adventure

My role is to take Teddie and Flozzie out for their walks once a week, a schedule that works perfectly with their owner's needs. These walks are usually an hour or more, and let me tell you, the moment I arrive, their excitement is palpable! They greet me at the door with such enthusiasm, practically vibrating with anticipation for their adventure. This regular support means so much to their owner, who, despite her illness, clearly adores her dogs. Seeing her relief and knowing that her beloved Frenchies are getting their much-needed exercise and stimulation brings a deep sense of satisfaction

The Trust carefully matches volunteers with owners based on location, the needs of the pet, and the availability of the volunteer. This ensures a reliable and consistent service for both the pets and their owners.

They're generally very good on the lead, eager to explore the world. Sometimes, though, on the way back, they decide they've had enough and plant themselves firmly, refusing to budge! It's a funny little battle of wills, but a well-timed treat and a gentle reminder of who's in charge usually gets them moving again. It’s all part of the fun!

A Canal Walk and a Photoshoot!

Last week was particularly special. We embarked on a longer adventure, exploring the scenic canal path where the water shimmered under the morning sun, and venturing into the nearby woods, where the air was filled with the scent of damp earth and pine needles. The dogs absolutely adored every minute of it! Teddie was in his element, investigating every rustle in the undergrowth, while Flozzie was a blur of happy energy, her ears flapping as she trotted along. It was a good three miles in total, and seeing their happy faces and wagging tails, their tongues lolling out in pure contentment, makes every moment incredibly rewarding.

They also offer support for fostering pets if an owner needs to go into respite care, and even helps with rehoming if the worst happens. It's a comprehensive service aimed at keeping pets and their owners together for as long as possible.

Volunteering with them has been such a fulfilling experience, so far. It's amazing how a simple dog walk can make such a profound difference in someone's life and bring so much joy to both the pets and the volunteer. If you're looking for a way to give back, I highly recommend looking into opportunities with this incredible charity!