You can see full details of the Companion pet and buy it here.

I am always a little sceptical ‘toys’ for people living with dementia. To me it feels like we are being treated as a child again. I want to put that out there from the beginning.

The Companion Pets can be different breeds of dogs or cats. So, whether you are a dog or cat person, you are covered. The feel is like a cuddly teddy. Its likeness is pretty accurate to the breed. 

At the bottom of, in my case, the dog, you will find where the batteries go. The Companion Pets take either 4 x ‘C’ type or ‘LR14’ batteries, accessible by a screwdriver. And the red on / mute/ off switch. This means you can have the dog or cat on with movements but with no noise. This is good for those sensitive hearing moments.

The Companion Pets are sensitive to sound, so as you speak or make a noise such as a whistle the Pet will turn and face you with a bark or pant. The noise the Pets make is not loud or piecing as a real dog maybe. It is actually soothing and funny. Yes, I said that. I did make me smile and laugh. Bring my stress levels down over time.

You can stroke its head, back, or belly and it will purr or pant as a real dog or cat would. It is light enough to carry or have on your lap to engage with or relax and stroke whilst you watch tv. Despite my scepticism, if you are a pet person then this is for you. Like I say, it reduced my stress levels when anxious, giving my hands something to do that was relaxing.

I took it to a care home near me to see how older people would enjoy it. The laughter and attention it got was great to see. Everyone was interacting with the dog. As the spoke the dog would turn and bark to acknowledge their voice, they really enjoyed that. Bringing some out of their shell. Those with communication symptoms engaged in their own way as well.

A brilliant de-stressor for those agitated or anxious moments. Every care home lounge should have one. The Companion Pets certainly have made me rethink my sceptic thoughts and feelings, not all dementia ‘toys’ are childish. Some, like the Companion Pets, are useful.

Product rating (out of 5 stars)

5 out of 5! 

Simply a brilliant de-stressor ‘toy’. Lots of laughs and engaging moments. Not too noisy, but rather soothing in sound and feel.

About the author

Michael Booth
Michael is a former carer for his mom who lived with young onset Alzheimer’s disease for nine years and now himself lives with young onset Alzheimer’s disease. This gives him a view from both sides, a unique position. Michael is a Research Network volunteer and a member of the Innovations Board for the Alzheimer’s Society. Michael is also a member of the Geller Commission Advisory Board for people living with dementia; Experts by Experience Group for dementia; Brains for Dementia Advisory Board for Alzheimer’s Research UK; Young Dementia Network steering group member; Member of the NHS patient and Carer group (Dementia Advisor). Michael is a former Project and Technical Manager for a global electrical and electronic cable designer and manufacturer.

Michael tests a range of products sold on Alzheimer's Society's shop, as well as new products we are considering, providing a hands-on, honest assessment from someone living with dementia. We also share this feedback with the product suppliers and manufacturers to suggest improvements.

Author of the book: Dementia, you are not alone!