A dog, who lives at Bay Court Nursing Home in Budleigh Salterton has been voted the home's 'Employee of the Month.'

Barney is a thirteen-week-old puppy who has now taken up residence at Bay Court Nursing Home during the working day. He is the adored puppy belonging to Vicky, who is the non-clinical, registered manager. He has been coming to Bay Court with her since he was eight weeks old, with a view to training as a ‘ pet therapy dog’ for our home.

On winning the award, Barney told the Journal: "Woof, woof, I'm very proud to have won the award, I will now be celebrating, so tomorrow I may be feeling a little 'ruff.'

Since July 2023 when Dominque Lloyd took over ownership of Bay Court, she has been looking for ways to continue to improve residents sense of wellbeing. She said: "Allowing animals easy access is a definite benefit. Having Barney here daily, has been a turning point for many of our residents, that miss their pets from home. Staff and residents say that he really has made Bay Court feel like home.

"One of our regular activities is to make organic, tasty dog biscuits for all our visitors dogs to ensure they return with wagging tails. Dominique is a ‘breath of fresh air’ with a determination to ensure the lives of the residents here are for filled and happy."