Lives Transformed By Swimming With Newfoundand Dogs

(The Week UK - September 7, 2023)

"Paramedic Pete Lewin is transforming the lives of firefighters, police officers and soldiers suffering from PTSD by taking them swimming with his Newfoundland dogs. Those taking part in the therapy put on a dry suit and a lifejacket, and wade into the middle of a lake in Leicestershire, where they float on their backs in silence. When their time is up, they are 'rescued' by a Newfoundland: the dog swims out to them, before gently towing them back to shore. 'The dogs don’t judge you,' said Kevin Robinson, who did four tours in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. 'All they want to do is look after you. It keeps me happy for two to three days.'”