Jenny Reddecliff of Niton with Holly, her Pets As Therapy dog. Picture by Peter Boam.
ALL CREATURESPETS As Therapy (PAT) dogs and cats bring comfort and companionship to people in hospitals, hospices, nursing home, day centres, special-needs schools and many other establishments.
Maureen Hennis, chief executive of the national charity, explained: "People suffering from depression very often become lonely and withdrawn. Sometimes they stop talking to other people altogether.
"It has been found that PAT dogs can often break through their isolation, when human contact has failed. This is the first step to recovery."
There are more than 4,500 PAT dogs and 108 PAT cats throughout the UK, helping more than 130,000 patients every week.
On the IW there are 15 volunteers with registered PAT dogs. Audrey Powell, the IW co-ordinator, is on 01983 296273.
One local volunteer is Jenny Reddecliff, whose five-year old golden retriever, Holly, is a PAT dog.
Jenny said: "I visit The Gouldings, Freshwater, a respite care facility, and schools on the Island.
"I have been doing this work for four years and it is very rewarding. I occasionally give talks about my work for which there is no charge, but donations are always welcome."
Pets As Therapy has assessors who check the temperament of potential PAT dogs. Local co-ordinators hold details of establishments keen to have visits.
• For more information, ring 01844 345445 or visit www.petsastherapy.org, where you can also see a video of the work of PAT animals.