A precious pup has been spreading joy in hospitals across the North East after completing her training.

Ruby, an adorable Cockerpoo, has passed her training as a therapy dog after brightening the day of patients at Tees, Esk, and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust's hospitals.

The charming canine has now visited sites in Stockton, Middlesbrough and Darlington promoting happiness and paw-sitivity among staff and patients.

After recently completing her Pets as Therapy (PAT) course, she made her first trip to the Lustrum Vale in Stockton where she delighted patients.

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Since then, she has also visited West Park Hospital in Darlington and Roseberry Park Hospital in Middlesbrough.

Kelly Conway, Ruby's owner who works in the voluntary service team at TEWV, said: “She just seemed to know who needed a hug or a stroke, which made me quite emotional”

“Therapy pets bring such happiness to the people in our care. It was brilliant to see patients making a fuss over Ruby – she loved it, and so did they. It put a smile on all of our faces.”

“We do have a few registered volunteers, but we are always looking for more. I always knew I wanted Ruby to work as a therapy dog, as she has such a lovely nature.

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“She’s still only a puppy really at 14 months, but she’s not a bouncy dog. She’s very chilled, relaxed and laid back – just the temperament needed if you are visiting a busy ward.

“I might have waited a little longer before putting her through the assessment, but I got a call from Lustrum Vale asking if we had any therapy dogs – which made me take that final step.”

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Kelly, a voluntary service coordinator with TEWV, was hopeful Ruby could be trained as a therapy pet when she first got the pup at 12-weeks-old.

Meanwhile, after her successful visits, Kelly and Ruby are now receiving lots of invitations for similar trips.

As a Poodle mix, Ruby fortunately should be able to cuddle up with people who are even allergic to dogs.

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Meanwhile, Dr Hannah Crawford, director of therapies, today welcomed Ruby to TEWV and thanked the owners of all therapy pets who visit the Trust year-round for their support.

She said:“As an animal lover and a dog owner myself, I can really understand how pets bring a smile to people and make our days that little bit more special."

“Therapy pets really do spread happiness when they visit our wards. I’d like to say a special thank you to the owners who volunteer to do this – we really do appreciate your support.”