A new partnership is bringing comfort to veterans and animals alike.
The Scottish SPCA and Erskine Veterans Charity have teamed up to support veterans through animal companionship.
Since July, Erskine care home residents have been making weekly visits to the Scottish SPCA’s Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre.
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These visits provide veterans with opportunities to spend time with cats and dogs, helping the animals to develop trust and socialise while offering the veterans routine and a sense of companionship.
For those unable to travel, the Erskine Veterans Village has welcomed the Scottish SPCA to bring dogs onsite for visits.
The initiative has been well received by participants, who have described it as both “calming and joyful”.
Bill Turner, a veteran who served in Cold War intelligence in Berlin, said: “Being with the animals is great for us.
“It is also great to help the animals in the centre and see them coming round to us as they build their confidence.
“Going to the centre is great as it is very calming for me, and it is great to hear the stories from the staff about the animals.”
Jimmy Bowes, an RAF veteran, and his wife Mary have also taken part.
Discussing the initiative, the couple said: “The partnership has been great and we absolutely love our time with the animals.
“We have had animals all our life, from dogs to cats and small animals.
“So this was a wonderful thing for us – to be able to spend time with the animals.”
Both charities hope to expand the project in 2026 so more veterans can take part.
Plans are also underway to create an allotment area at the Glasgow centre, with planters built by the veterans’ village.
This will allow veterans to get involved in more activities, and grow herbs and vegetables to feed small animals in care.
The Scottish SPCA’s links to the Armed Forces date back more than a century.
During World War I, 21 staff members enlisted, and the Society contributed a horse ambulance to the army, which was used more than 60 times.
In World War II, half the inspectorate served, and nine temporary inspectors over military age were appointed to cover their absence.
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In a special ceremony at Erskine Veterans Village Remembrance Garden, representatives from both charities laid a commemorative wreath honouring both military personnel and the animals who served alongside them.
The event also honoured the growing partnership between the two organisations.
Anyone concerned about an animal’s welfare is encouraged to call the charity’s confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
To report any act of cruelty, visit the Scottish SPCA website.
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