PETS AS THERAPY are pleased to announce the appointment of their new Chief Executive - Maureen Hennis.

Maureen has been involved with the Charity since its inception in 1983, and for several years has been the Director.

Maureen’s background is in the world of dogs. Until 2004 she was the Chairman of Darlington Championship Dog Show Society, having been on that committee since 1969. A founder member and past secretary of the North Eastern Afghan Hound Society, she has, in the past, judged and exhibited Afghan Hounds as well as Toy Poodles and Yorkshire Terriers, as well as owning several cats.

In 1993 she organised the national petition to amend the Dangerous Dogs Act, which was presented to the Home Office, and in the year 2000, PRO Dogs awarded her the ‘Special Millennium Award’ for contribution to Pets As Therapy and the world of dogs in general.
The work of Pets As Therapy and their wonderful PAT dogs and PAT cats is extremely significant today with over 100,000 patients benefitting every single week in hospitals, hospices, day care centres, special needs schools, etc.

Of her new appointment Maureen said: “Being dedicated and totally committed to Pets As Therapy, I hope to be able to develop the charity further, bringing new initiatives and advancements which will benefit both our volunteers and those who receive animal assisted therapy in hospitals, homes and schools. We hope to be able to extend the reach of our service and take the Charity forward to new heights”.