Meet our PAT Ambassadors

Learn more about our PAT Ambassadors and their involvement with our charity, and why they are keen to support Pets As Therapy.

James Middleton

I’m James Middleton, dog lover and mental health awareness advocate.

With a pack of six dogs by my side, you might have seen my training tips videos, or read some blogs on how I manage and maintain the health and wellbeing of my dogs.

What's your involvement with Pets As Therapy? 

During a lengthy battle with clinical depression, I experienced firsthand the positive impact that dogs can have on your mental health. It was after coming out the other side of this dark period of my life, that I found myself wanting to give back to my dogs, but also to enrich the lives of others. I had two of my dogs registered as PAT Dogs, and I’m also a keen ambassador for the incredible work that Pets As Therapy do.

Why are you proud to be a PAT Ambassador?

I'm incredibly proud to be involved with Pets As Therapy because I've seen firsthand the incredible impact that animals can have on people's lives. The charity does amazing work, bringing the joy and comfort of animals to those in need, whether it's in hospitals, nursing homes, schools or other environments. I’m so grateful to be a part of such a meaningful organisation.

How do you hope to help Pets As Therapy? 

I have always been eager to raise awareness about Pets As Therapy in any way I can, and to encourage others to get involved, too. Whether that’s through fundraising, volunteering or simply by spreading the word, I know that the more people who know of the incredible work done by PAT, the more the charity can continue helping those in need. I also hope to use my platform to lead to more support and resources for Pets As Therapy.

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Josette Simon, OBE

My name is Josette Simon and I am an actor. 

People may know me from TV programmes such as Broadchurch, Spooks, The Split, Poirot, Death in Paradise, Small Axe and Anatomy of a Scandal. I've also had leading roles with The Royal Shakespeare Company and The Royal National Theatre and on film. I am fortunate enough to have won several Best Actress acting awards. And I was awarded the OBE for Services to Drama.  

What's your involvement with Pets As Therapy? 

My dog Milo and I have been involved with Pets As Therapy for nearly five years. Over this time, we have been to several diverse establishments, including hospital stroke units, dementia care, mental health facilities, an inpatients eating disorder unit, universities and adult and children's hospices. 

Why are you proud to be a PAT Ambassador?

It's a charity that enhances people's lives - on a remarkable level. The direct relationship between the PAT Dogs and the recipients, it goes straight to the centre of that person's sense of wellbeing and comfort. It is wonderful to behold. A visit from a PAT Dog brings benefits which cannot be replicated in any other way. 

How do you hope to help Pets As Therapy? 

I hope to spread the word and to bring as much awareness as I can to Pets As Therapy. It thoroughly deserves to be known about in every corner of the country. Not only so that everyone is aware of the unique and extraordinary work it does, but also to encourage others to volunteer, so that many more people can benefit from the special and enriching visit from a PAT Dog.

Volunteering for PAT is a two-way exchange. It is uplifting for both recipient and volunteer. So it's a win-win! A truly wonderful thing to do.

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We’re here to help

Whether you are a potential volunteer, a corporate sponsor or you’d like to take part in an event and raise money for Pets As Therapy, get in touch.

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