Menora Gardens says thanks to their furry companion

Volunteers in aged care come in all shapes, sizes and even breeds, and Bolton Clarke Menora Gardens is saying thank you this National Volunteers Week to their most cherished volunteer, Juno.

The poodle cross has been visiting the home with owner Norm since 2018 and after all these years, knows exactly how to find the residents with treats for her.

“There is a resident in particular that Juno knows when we get closer to their room that she is about to get a treat,” Norm said.

“She will spend time with the resident next door before quickly heading to the door waiting to be let in.

“We visit the home every Thursday, so the residents have gotten to know Juno really well over time.”

Norm and wife Wendy have recently moved into the co-located retirement village, so it’s an easy stroll over to the home.

“We started coming to the home because my cousin was the manager here and now that we live right next door, the visits fit into the calendar nicely.

“I’ve done dog training in the past so Juno is very well behaved and it’s just nice to see the residents’ faces light up when we walk in.

“It’s all about giving back and the fact that we can go in and make someone’s week is really special!”

This week (18-24 May) is National Volunteers Week and to honour the pair’s contribution to the home, the Menora Gardens team organised something special.

“We were invited up earlier this week for a ceremony and were presented our own certificates of thanks!”