Rescue Dog Clement Finds New Purpose as Therapy Dog
A rescued mixed-breed dog overcomes a traumatic past to become a therapy dog for elderly residents. Separately, a veterinary nutritionist explains the pros and cons of wet and dry dog food.
Two distinct stories highlight the profound impact of dogs in our lives. The first follows a rescued dog's journey from a ditch in Romania to a therapy role in a UK care home. The second provides a clear-eyed comparison between wet and dry commercial dog foods.
Clement's Second Chance
Clement, an eight-year-old mixed-breed dog, was adopted in June 2025, six months after his new owner's Kerry Blue Terrier died. He had been rescued from a ditch in Romania where he spent three days in the snow after being hit by a car and attacked by other dogs. His gentle nature led his owner to register him as a therapy dog after six months in his new home.
He passed his assessments and began working at Ashfields care home in Norwich. The home had sought a therapy dog for years. Clement now visits the communal spaces, providing comfort and sparking conversations among elderly residents about their own past pets. His owner notes that despite limited mobility from his past injuries, which requires a stool to help him climb up to people, Clement intuitively connects with those in need.
On a recent visit, he sat motionless for five minutes with a woman who had been upset all day. His owner believes Clement has found a beautiful purpose in giving affection and companionship. The experience has been major, teaching that every being has something to give regardless of their past circumstances.
Choosing Dog Food: Wet vs. Dry
According to companion animal nutritionist Dr. Mary Cope, PhD, there is no automatic winner between wet and dry dog food. Both formats can provide complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages. The choice depends on a dog's specific health needs, owner lifestyle, and budget considerations.
Dr. Cope outlines distinct advantages for each type. Dry food, including kibble and air-dried options, is known for convenience, cost-effectiveness, and long shelf life. It is easy to store and portion. However, it is low in moisture and may be less appealing to picky eaters. Wet food, primarily canned, offers high moisture content which aids hydration for dogs that drink little or have kidney concerns. Its soft texture also suits dogs with dental issues, and its strong aroma often entices finicky appetites. The downsides include higher cost, heavier packaging, and a short shelf life once opened.
Dr. Cope suggests wet food for dogs needing extra hydration or with poor appetites, and dry food for budget and convenience. For a picky eater on a budget, she recommends a middle ground: dry food topped with a dollop of wet food and water to create a gravy. She emphasizes checking the label for a statement of nutritional adequacy, as some products are only intended as toppers. The ultimate test is whether the individual dog thrives on the selected diet.
