Clement, an eight-year-old mixed-breed dog, has found a new role in life after surviving a harrowing ordeal in Romania. Now working as a therapy dog at Ashfields care home in Norwich, he provides comfort to elderly residents who often share stories of their own former pets.
From Trauma to Therapy
Clement’s journey began in December 2024, when his current owner, grieving the sudden death of her Kerry Blue Terrier named Magnus, began searching for a rescue dog online. She encountered Clement’s story on Facebook. He was being cared for by a shelter in Romania after spending most of his life with a woman suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
One day, the woman accidentally let Clement out. He was struck by a car, attacked by two large dogs, and left in a ditch for three days in the snow. He was eventually rescued by chance. The owner knew immediately she had to take him in.
On June 11, 2025, exactly six months after Magnus died, Clement arrived in the UK on what his owner called the “happy bus.” He was small, with long black fur, a greying beard, and pointy ears that stood at attention. Despite his past, he had a gentle and calm demeanor. He settled into his new family, which already included three other dogs, right away.
Enriching Lives at Ashfields
Clement’s gentle nature suggested he would make an excellent therapy dog, particularly for elderly people. After six months of preparation, he passed his therapy dog assessments and began working with Ashfields care home. The facility had been looking for a therapy dog for years.
Walking through the communal spaces, Clement’s presence brings comfort to residents. He often gets them talking about their own former pets, creating a sense of connection and nostalgia. His owner notes that he has enriched the lives of those within the home just as he has enriched her own.
Clement’s time in Romania left him with limited mobility. While he can still get around, his owner brings a stool to help him climb up and sit beside people. He typically sits for a minute or two before moving on. However, on one recent visit, he sat with a woman who had been upset all day for five minutes without moving. It was as though he knew she needed him.
Clement’s story is a testament to the resilience of animals and the power of compassion. He may not win dog shows, but his purpose is to give affection and companionship to people who need it most. He does it beautifully, teaching his owner that no matter your circumstances, you can still have something to give to the world.
Source: The Guardian
