Phantom is a retired racing greyhound, who first showed his therapeutic chops at the Greyhound Rescue Centre in Liss with his calming influence on other greyhounds. After four years as a family pet, he found a second career, volunteering as a PAT “Read to” dog in the Solaris Nurture Unit at Bohunt School in Liphook.

Phantom the greyound wearing a multicoloured vest, blue coat, at Petersfield Heath
Phantom is bundled up warmly in three layers on a chilly January morning by the Petersfield Heath.

Kate Fairweather meets Phantom and his owner, Erika Harris, for a Sunday morning coffee by the lake, at Petersfield Heath’s cafe, the Plump Duck.

A post-coffee walk with Erika Harris and Phantom.

Phantom’s steady temperament had made him a hit at Bohunt School, where he is a regular fixture, bringing cheer to the school community every Monday morning.

Phantom the greyhound in his volunteering uniform - a yellow vest - he lies on a yellow beanbag on the classroom floor.
Phantom at work, in his jaunty yellow vest, being read to by one of his student clients.

Find out how to volunteer as a Pets as Therapy dog in our interview with Patricia Bland, published last year and at the Pets as Therapy’s website.

Do you work your dog or dogs?

If you would consider talking to Kate about your dog’s working life, she’d love to hear from you! Just email team@shineradio.uk or leave Kate a message on 01730 555500.