A West Highland terrier has been dubbed a 'canine carer' after giving a lonely and housebound Ewell pensioner a new lease of life.

Westie-loving Joan Davis, 80, asked home care provider Home Instead to find her a carer for help and company – and was delighted to be matched with Stan Moss and his bouncy terrier Digger, from Epsom.

Mrs Davis had approached the care providers as she had become nervous of leaving her home after suffering a fall. She was doing little during the day and felt isolated.

Ever since Digger, who has been risk-assessed for the job, started visiting twice weekly Mrs Davis’ confidence improved and she now goes out shopping and visits the park, even when alone.

Care manager at Home Instead, Simon Burrowes said: “When I visited Joan to make sure she was happy with the quality of service, I received much more feedback on Digger than Stan, but was pleased to hear that both are doing really well. I realised what a difference we had made to this lady’s life.”

“She said that she would love a dog of her own but her dog had passed away some time ago and she felt that at her age it would not be fair to get another one.

“Joan fondly told me of the time she spends with her friend’s dog when she visits and it was obvious that this time meant a great deal to her. When I saw Digger – and Stan of course – I knew I’d found the perfect match.”