RECENTLY qualified vet, Juliette Preston, who works at St Boniface Vets, came to the September meeting of Crediton and Area Branch of Devon Senior Voice to give a talk about the positive health benefits of keeping pets.

Not only can owning a dog or cat lower one’s blood pressure and cholesterol, but it is well-documented that one’s mood can be raised just by the presence of them in the home.

Dogs, also, need regular daily exercise which contributes to keeping their owners fit. Apparently, even keeping chickens and guinea pigs is good for one’s health and well-being.

Following the talk, members of the audience shared some amusing stories about their pets, then Chair, Carole Towler, thanked Juliette warmly and noted that she was available for talks in the future on various other animal-related topics.

This was followed by refreshments and a report on the Dementia Awareness Day at the Boniface Centre, held the previous week.

All agreed it had been another very successful and well-attended event. Ron Cuthbertson was thanked for his contribution to organising it and Pat Buck and Barbara Todd for their hard work serving the refreshments.

The next meeting will be held tomorrow, Wednesday, October 12 from 2pm to 4pm, when Bernard Little will be talking about the Devon Grandparent Support Group.

All are welcome at the meeting which will take place in the Meadow Suite, Lords Meadow Leisure Centre, Crediton. Telephone 01363 775502 for further details.