Dogs are man’s best friend, and residents at RMBI Care Co. Home Cadogan Court, in Exeter, know this by experience. Once a week, they are delighted to meet Kobi, a 3.5 year-old Labrador who has been coming into the Home since he was just a puppy.

“Kobi’s got a lovely temperament and always brings a smile to our faces! Especially when he shows us his soft toys,” says resident Ken. According to the staff, the affectionate dog always evokes memories for those residents who have had animals. This brings about plenty of stories about their own pets and mischiefs they may have gotten up to.

Home Manager Clare Walker, who happens to be Kobi’s owner, says: “It is always lovely to see the residents’ faces light up when Kobi comes around. He brings joy and calmness to our residents, which is wonderful for their mental health and wellbeing. Also, they are able to get very close and feel his breath and fur, and that is a particularly joyful experience for residents with visual problems.”

Kobi can sometimes be found sitting in the Home Manager’s office. With a constant wag of his tail, he usually waits for petting or proudly shows whatever new toy he has in his mouth. “As my office is near the dining room, he has a stream of visitors at meal times. However, he can also be found running around, exploring the Home’s gardens,” she says with a smile.

RMBI Home Cadogan Court, in Exeter, is run by RMBI Care Co., part of the Masonic Charitable Foundation. For more information, please visit: http://www.rmbi.org.uk/