This World Mental Health Day (10 October 2025), we celebrate the incredible power of the human–animal bond through the story of PAT Volunteer Jenny and her eight-year-old Cairnoodle, Ruby.

Ruby became a registered PAT Dog in 2018 and has since been bringing joy to care home residents, schoolchildren and patients in a psychiatric hospital. The little dog has also had a life-changing impact on her owner.

Jenny from Buckinghamshire reveals she has struggled with hidden mental health challenges for much of her life, and says Ruby quite literally saved her.

“After a lifetime of hidden mental health issues and my recovery journey over the last 10 years, Ruby and I are huge advocates for openness around autism and mental health," Jenny smiles. "I hid my difficulties from the world for 50 years, and now Ruby and I want to challenge the negativity surrounding mental health. Pets As Therapy has had such a positive impact on my life.”

Spreading joy

Ruby’s visits often create moments of magic. In a local school, through our Read2Dogs scheme, she encouraged a young boy who was very reluctant to read aloud with his class to take a look at Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

In a care home, Ruby and Jenny formed a deep bond with a resident who rarely left his room, bringing him companionship and conversation for over two years.

Making a difference

Jenny’s husband and sister believe Ruby has been central to Jenny's recovery and wellbeing. “Ruby has given me purpose, focus and something meaningful to do," Jenny adds.

"In my former careers as a police officer and teacher, I felt I was making a difference. Volunteering with Ruby now gives me that same sense of purpose.

“Ruby has an incredible ability to bring comfort to others, and our visits do me good too. If you’re wondering if you and your dog could be a PAT Team, I’d say give it a try – it could change lives.”