A rescue puppy who needed major surgery after being found as a stray at just 12 weeks old is now giving something back – providing comfort and affection to Isle of Wight Ambulance Service staff working under immense pressure.
Miniature Poodle cross, Jaffa, had a difficult start to life, arriving at Battersea as a young stray with a serious health condition which would require intensive veterinary treatment.
Staff quickly realised something was not right with the poorly pup, and he was diagnosed with a liver shunt, following a series of medical tests.
The potentially life-threatening condition causes blood to bypass the liver, preventing it from properly filtering toxins and absorbing vital nutrients.
Within weeks of arriving at Battersea, Jaffa underwent a major operation before beginning his recovery with foster carer Ali Taylor, who provided round-the-clock attention while he recuperated.
Although the youngster recovered from surgery, his ongoing medical needs meant finding the right forever home was particularly important.
That home eventually came with Lyn and Andy, who both volunteer with the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service Care Dog Team.
The pair were prepared to give Jaffa the specialist care he needed – but also spotted something in his confident and affectionate personality that could allow him to help others.
After completing his training and assessment, Jaffa has now become a fully-fledged member of the Care Dog Team, supporting ambulance crews and call handlers dealing with major trauma.
He works alongside his owners and other care dogs, including fellow Battersea rescue Tilly, providing frontline staff with affection, comfort and a moment of calm during demanding shifts.
Jaffa’s owner, Lyn, has said:
“Jaffa’s confident and affectionate nature made him a natural fit for the role, and after completing his training, he now joins our other Battersea rescue dog, Tilly, and a roster of other dogs, on regular shifts, offering much-needed emotional support to frontline workers.”
Victoria White, Director of Ambulance Service at Isle of Wight NHS Trust, has said:
“Jaffa is a wonderful example of how compassion and partnership can make a real difference to the wellbeing of our staff.
“Our crews and call handlers work under intense pressure, and the calm, comfort, and connection our care dogs provide is invaluable. We are incredibly proud to have Jaffa as part of our team.”
For those who cared for Jaffa when his own future was uncertain, seeing him now helping people through difficult moments has proved particularly poignant.
Ali Taylor, Jaffa’s foster carer and Head of Animal Behaviour at Battersea, has said:
“Jaffa was a tiny puppy needing intensive veterinary care when he arrived at Battersea, but he never stopped showing us his affectionate, joyful nature.
“To see him now supporting NHS Ambulance Service staff, bringing comfort to people when they need it most, makes me so proud. He’s a wonderful example of what rescue dogs can achieve when given a second chance.”
