Meet Harry the whippet who is on a mission to bring smiles and health benefits to dementia patients at the James Paget University Hospital.

Eastern Daily Press: Harry with his owner Sally Darley and two dementia befrienders Picture: JPUHHarry with his owner Sally Darley and two dementia befrienders Picture: JPUH (Image: Archant)

Harry is the latest member of the Gorleston hospital's dementia team.

He is a Pets as Therapy dog owned by Sally Darley from Lowestoft.

Pets as Therapy is a national charity providing therapeutic visits to hospitals, hospices, residential and nursing homes.

Research has suggested pets offer health benefits such as lowering blood pressure and heart rates, reducing the stress, and boosting confidence.

His owner said 'I realised Harry's potential as a PAT dog when I used to regularly take him to visit my friend's father when he was unwell.

'He's very placid and calm with vulnerable people, which makes him a perfect dementia friendly dog. It's fantastic to see their faces light up when they see and pet him.'