Local care home second chef cooks up new skills in canine first aid

Second Chef at Barchester’s Hampton Grove Care Home in Peterborough, has proven that care at the home extends well beyond the kitchen. As a dedicated member of the care home’s team for 14 years, Cassie recently went above and beyond her culinary duties to earn a certificate in Canine First Aid.

The inspiration behind this new qualification is Cassie’s beloved 3-year-old Labrador, Louie. Born with hip dysplasia in both back legs, Louie has been a regular at Well Dog Hydrotherapy, in Peterborough since he was a puppy. It was through this long-standing relationship that the hydrotherapy team, led by Stacey, offered Cassie the chance to train alongside them.

Cassie said "Stacey and her team are amazing, always giving help and advice," "When she offered me the opportunity to do the Canine First Aid course with her team, I jumped at it. I wanted to better my knowledge so I know exactly what to do in an emergency for Louie." 

At Hampton Grove, Cassie is known for her 14 years of service and her active presence in the local community. While she usually spends her time preparing nutritious meals for residents, her new skills highlight the diverse passions and spirit that define the staff at Hampton Grove Care Home. 

Stefan Lupu, General Manager at Hampton Grove said "We are super proud of Cassie on her achievement and passion in learning, not only in the kitchen but to support the welfare of her dog Louie, we often have dogs visiting in the home and knowing that we have a staff member that we can reach out to should an emergency arise”.

Stacey Parish who is the founder of Well Dog Hydrotherapy shared “Cassie is a valued client who is dedicated to the care of her dog Louie. Cassie was one of the first clients we asked to get involved with the first aid and CPR training which she achieved”