MORE 130,000 people have signed a petition calling for an elderly man to be allowed to keep his pet dog in his care home.
The campaign was launched after it emerged that 87-year-old Robert Harvey, known as Bob, has been told his pet Schnauzer Darkie must leave the home because of new health and safety rules.
Mr Harvey moved to Burnfoot Hall care home, in Ecclefechan, Dumfriesshire, four years ago with his late wife and their pet. Initially they were told they could keep the dog by their side, but now bosses say he must leave.
The change.org petition was launched by family friend Tracey Streit, who said: “This is a very sad story about a lovely man called Bob.
“He is our family friend who moved into Burnfoot Hall Care Home, Ecclefechan, with his wife and their close companion Darkie the Schnauzer, nearly four years ago, with the agreement that the dog stayed as part of their family.
“Bob’s wife was terminally ill and sadly died two years ago. Bob is 87 and has dialysis three times a week.
“Darkie was the only thing left he had to keep him going. He cares for the dog himself and Darkie is very popular with the residents as well as being very loyal to Bob.
“He is now faced with the worst news ever, his best friend has to leave the home because new management say he is causing trouble and they are introducing a no pets policy.
“This news has left him heartbroken, unable to eat or sleep. Bob will be forced to find a new home if he cannot keep his companion with him. We are now raising money so they can spend the rest of their time together “
Bosses at the home say the dog has been “subject of concern for some time” and has “become out of control and is placing other people particularly those with limited mobility at increased risk”.
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