It’s me, Rolo – King Cavalier of Clinic and Home, and Therapy Dog in Training

Woof and tail-wags, dear friends.

It’s me, Rolo. Sir Rolo Raphael, if you’re one for titles, though, between us, I quite like plain old Rolo. I’m told I’m a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which sounds terribly grand, doesn’t it? But all it really means is that I keep my royal bottom warm between two realms — home and the clinic…. My kingdom stretches from the sofa throne to the treatment room, though my pet, Ingrid, still thinks it’s her domain. (Bless. Let her have that illusion, will you?) I mostly let her rule, but I keep a close eye to make sure none of her treatments gets too ruff.

My pet says I’m in training with Jo to become a therapy dog. That means I get to be around lots of lovely humans, quietly being my gentle self while they relax. Apparently, science has proven that having a dog like me around can lower stress, steady heartbeats, and lift moods. I can’t say I’ve run the numbers myself, but I’m fairly certain that a single cuddle from me adds at least five happy years to any human’s life. Longevity seems to be the big word around here lately, so I’m doing my bit.

I’m five months old now – I know, tiny gasp, followed by “awwww,” please, loud enough for my fluffy ears to catch it. Attention is my favourite thing, right up there with biscuits. If I become the best therapy dog I can be, that means even more cuddles… and biscuits. My pet has her biscuits with tea, while I get water. Boring, but she says it’s good for me, and I hear her reminding most people to drink more water too, so I suppose I’m just leading by example. But if you really want an extra special cuddle from me, bring cheese biscuits. Always cheese.

Some people tell me I make the whole place softer just by being there. That makes my little chest puff out, though I try not to let it show too much. If ever you’d rather I didn’t potter about spreading affection (hard to imagine, but I’ll try not to take it paw‑sonally), just whisper to Aunty Lisa (that’s my pets trusted EA) and she’ll tell me not to come bounding in. I’ll understand completely. Not everyone wants a waggly tail in their day. I’ll simply trot off somewhere quiet, practise looking regal, and wait for my next cuddle call.

For now, much love and a promise to keep being the best little therapy‑in‑training Cavalier I can be.

Gentle woofs and warmth,

Rolo x

Chief Snuggle Officer and Biscuit Quality Inspector