From Battersea rescue to Isle of Wight hero: Meet the puppy bringing comfort to ambulance staff
Jaffa the miniature poodle cross overcame a life-threatening illness from his time on the streets, before being adopted by volunteers and helping front line staff
A miniature Poodle cross, once a stray puppy with a life-threatening condition, has landed himself a vital support role within the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service Care Dog Team.
Jaffa is now providing emotional support to staff dealing with major trauma.
He arrived at Battersea as a stray at only 12 weeks old, and was soon diagnosed with a liver shunt, which needed major surgery.
Thanks to the care from Battersea and foster carers, Jaffa successfully recovered and later found his forever home with Lyn and Andy, volunteers at the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service Care Dog Team.
Seeing potential in Jaffa's nature, Lyn and Andy trained him to join their team of care dogs, where Jaffa now brings comfort and calm to frontline staff under pressure.
Jaffa’s owner, Lyn, said: “Jaffa’s confident and affectionate nature made him a natural fit for the role, and after completing his training, he now joins our other Battersea rescue dog, Tilly, and a roster of other dogs, on regular shifts, offering much‑needed emotional support to frontline workers.”
Victoria White, Director of Ambulance Service at Isle of Wight NHS Trust, also praised Jaffa's contribution: “Jaffa is a wonderful example of how compassion and partnership can make a real difference to the wellbeing of our staff.
Our crews and call handlers work under intense pressure, and the calm, comfort, and connection our care dogs provide is invaluable. We are incredibly proud to have Jaffa as part of our team.”
Ali Taylor, Jaffa’s foster carer and Head of Animal Behaviour at Battersea, expressed pride in his journey, saying: “Jaffa was a tiny puppy needing intensive veterinary care when he arrived at Battersea, but he never stopped showing us his affectionate, joyful nature.
To see him now supporting NHS Ambulance Service staff, bringing comfort to people when they need it most, makes me so proud. He’s a wonderful example of what rescue dogs can achieve when given a second chance.”