A DUDLEY woman is giving back to her loyal Labrador who has helped her live with cerebral palsy.

Demi Shakespeare, from Dudley, has been assisted for the past 13 years by her trusty pooch Bumble, who has been on hand to help Demi with tasks such as opening doors and retrieving items.

Bumble's unwavering help has meant that Demi has been able to train as a mental health recovery worker and run her own private practice working as a counsellor.

Now Bumble is getting older after many years of service, Demi is supporting her by booking her into a canine clinic where she receives hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.

The treatment at Moreton Morrell College in Warwickshire takes pressure off Bumble's knees and joints and sees her use a state-of-the-art underwater treadmill.

Demi said: “Bumble has been the most dedicated and loving dog, and she has helped me in so many ways.

“Before I had her, people would sometimes see me in a wheelchair and be reluctant to approach me, but Bumble is a great icebreaker and has allowed me to meet so many people.

“She’s also helped me with my confidence. I feel more secure when Bumble is with me.

“It’s very rewarding to be able to give something back to her after everything she’s done for me - she’s so well looked after and the treatments are really helping her with her mobility.”

Becky Sidwell, veterinary physiotherapist at Moreton Morrell College, said: “It’s a real pleasure to have Bumble in the college. She’s a gorgeous dog and has had a tremendously positive effect on Demi’s life.”

Emily Cooke, also a veterinary physiotherapist at the college, added: “It’s great to have dogs like Bumble in the college on a regular basis. By bringing Bumble to Moreton Morrell College, not only is Demi helping Bumble, she’s also helping to nurture the next generation of veterinary physiotherapists.”

“We look forward to welcoming Bumble to the college and helping her to enjoy her golden years!”

After more than ten years’ loyal service, Bumble has retired from her job as a full-time assistance dog and Demi has a new addition – two-year old Kizzy.

Demi said: “Kizzy is such a playful and energetic dog. She reminds me a lot of Bumble when she was the same age.

“Luckily, Bumble and Kizzy get on really well. Kizzy always comes with us when we visit Moreton Morrell College and it’s great to know that if she needs some physio, Becky and Emily can treat her as well.”