I SHOULD have been out walking Bruno my dog today but sadly because of declining health he had to be put to sleep, leaving an empty hole in my day.

Having him for the few years I did was one of the best decisions I have ever made. He was my first dog and a fantastic bond formed between us, one that I never realised could exist between a person and a dog.

He was not just a pet but a member of our family and treated as such and we were rewarded by his companionship and love.

I can’t at the moment think of getting another dog as he is irreplaceable but he was a shining example of the benefits one can get from having a rescue dog. My sincere thanks go to the Margaret Green Foundation at Church Knowle for their help and support when needed and no doubt I will be making another visit in the future.

TERRY JERRARD, Slades Farm Road, Bournemouth