How Mark Crewe and His Border Terrier Are Spreading Smiles with Pets As Therapy

From Ministry of Defence Dog Handler to Therapy Dog Volunteer: How Mark Crewe and His Border Terrier Are Spreading Smiles with Pets As Therapy

For Mark Crewe, a busdriver at Stagecoach’s Andover depot, bringing joy to others isn’t just a motto; it’s a mission. Through his volunteer work with the UK charity Pets As Therapy, Mark and his 3-year-old Border Terrier, Rag, are doing just that—bringing comfort and smiles to people in need.

A Personal Connection to a Worthy Cause

This year, the team at the Andover depot rallied behind Pets As Therapy, raising over £152 through a Halloween-themed bus and a cake sale. Mark’s personal connection to the charity inspired the depot’s efforts, and the cause is close to his heart for a reason.

Before becoming a bus driver, Mark spent 14 years in the Army and then joined the Ministry of Defence for 22 years, of which, he spent 11 years as a Dog Handler. But it was during the Covid-19 lockdowns that he and his wife decided to get a dog of their own. Enter Rag—a friendly, social Border Terrier who quickly became a cherished member of the family. “I want to bring him up the best I can,” Mark said. “And interact him with life.”

The Start of a New Journey
Mark’s journey with Pets As Therapy began during a difficult time. His sister was diagnosed with cancer, and as often as possible, he and Rag visited her. Despite her illness, Rag’s presence always lifted her spirits, reinforcing for Mark the unique power of a pet’s companionship. After she passed away, Mark felt compelled to share that same sense of comfort with others. He discovered Pets As Therapy, a charity that connects people with therapy animals, and decided to get Rag certified as a therapy dog.

Bringing Smiles to Care Homes and Beyond
Mark and Rag began visiting Barchester Rothsay Grange Care Home, where they were welcomed warmly by staff and residents alike. “The carers told me about a patient they’d never seen smile—until she met Rag,” Mark recalls. For many residents, who don’t have family nearby, Rag’s visits are a highlight, providing comfort and joy.
Seeing the positive impact at the care home, Mark expanded his volunteer efforts to the local mental health organisation Mind in Andover, where Rag participates in group art sessions. These visits offer a calming presence to participants, helping them build confidence and ease.

Bringing Joy to Andover Depot Drivers
Inspired by Rag’s ability to lift spirits, Mark decided to introduce Pets As Therapy sessions at his own workplace, the Andover depot. Now, regular sessions at the depot allow drivers to enjoy Rag’s calming presence, helping to improve their health and wellbeing. The Andover depot, have always been enthusiastic and supportive which Mark is truly grateful for. 

Welcoming New Volunteers to Pets As Therapy
For Mark, volunteering with Pets As Therapy is a way to give back and share Rag’s unique gift for bringing happiness. He encourages others to get involved, noting that anyone with a well-behaved dog or cat over the age of one can apply. “You don’t need to have experience as a handler to volunteer,” he says. “Just a willingness to bring joy to others.”

In his role as a bus driver, Mark has come to appreciate the diversity among his colleagues, many of whom have fascinating backgrounds of their own. For Mark, his journey from the Ministry of Defence to a bus driver, and now to a therapy dog volunteer, has been a surprising but deeply rewarding one. Through his efforts, Mark and Rag are demonstrating the power of connection and compassion, one visit at a time.