SEPTEMBER 2026
Who can resist those puppy-dog eyes? Certainly not Victor!
Our lovable Diego has a special talent for winning hearts, and Victor is just the latest to fall head over heels for our four-legged bundle of joy. Whether he’s visiting residents, greeting families or checking in on the staff, Diego takes his role as our resident happiness expert very seriously!
And as this gorgeous moment shows, the love goes both ways! With Diego soaking up all the cuddles and Victor enjoying some quality time with his furry friend, it’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best pick-me-up comes with four paws and a wagging tail.
Keep spreading that love, Diego – you certainly have a way of making everyone’s day a little brighter!
SEPTEMBER 2026
There’s something truly special about spending quality time with the people we love, and Teresa enjoyed just that during a lovely outing with her son.
Teresa’s family are regular visitors to our home, and on this occasion, her son made the most of their time together by taking her out for a walk in the sunshine. It was a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, share a special moment, and make more lovely memories together. With Teresa’s sun-smart hat on, they were all set for a sunny adventure!
And they weren’t alone for long! Diego thought a walk in the sunshine sounded like a brilliant idea and happily joined in the fun, making the outing even more memorable.
It’s these thoughtful moments – a son and his Mum enjoying a walk together (and a four-legged friend tagging along)- that remind us how meaningful family connections are. Sometimes, it’s the simplest moments spent together that mean the most.
AUGUST 2026
There’s something truly special about the bond between a person and a beloved four-legged friend. Gloria knows this feeling well, having once shared her life with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel just like our very own Diego.
Naturally, she loves spending time with Diego whenever she gets the chance, enjoying those precious moments of companionship and affection. And Diego is more than happy to make himself comfortable on a chair, making it easier for Gloria to lean down and give him a gentle pat.
AUGUST 2026
What a special day it was as we celebrated Diego’s third trip around the sun! Looking rather dapper and full of birthday charm, Diego certainly had an extra spring in his step as he made his way around our home.
With plenty of happy tail wags, precious moments and his irresistible charm, Diego visited our lovely residents, giving everyone the chance to wish him a very happy birthday and, of course, sneak in a few extra cuddles!
It was heartwarming to see so many smiles as our residents shared in Diego’s special day. There’s something truly magical about the joy and comfort our four-legged friend brings to our home, brightening our days and filling our hearts with unconditional love.
Happy 3rd Birthday, dear Diego! May your year ahead be filled with endless belly rubs, delicious treats, exciting adventures and all the love and cuddles you could ever wish for.
We’re so lucky to have you as part of our family!
JULY 2026
There are some visitors Diego never likes to miss – and our postie is definitely one of them!
Whenever it’s time for the daily mail delivery, Diego is always excited to be there to offer a warm welcome. With his wagging tail and friendly personality, he’s become a familiar face, greeting the postie as they deliver letters, parcels and special mail for our residents.
These little moments of connection brighten everyone’s day. Residents enjoy watching Diego’s enthusiasm, our postie is always greeted with a smile, and the simple routine of mail delivery becomes something a little more special.
It’s another reminder that joy is often found in the everyday moments, and Diego has a wonderful way of helping create them.
JULY 2026
Sometimes it’s the smallest companions who make the biggest difference.
Recently, Gabriella’s family had arranged for her to have a haircut, but she was feeling a little unsure about going. Knowing the special bond she shares with Diego, our team had an idea. We told Gabriella that Diego needed a haircut too and asked if she’d like to keep him company. She thought the idea was hilarious and happily agreed.
Diego sat patiently on Gabriella’s lap as they made their way to the salon, where Kris, our wonderful hairdresser, welcomed them. Throughout the appointment, Diego stayed by Gabriella’s side, providing comfort and reassurance. When it was time for the finishing touches, he sat quietly on the bench in front of her, giving Gabriella a gentle focal point that helped her keep still while Kris completed her styling.
It was heartwarming to watch Gabriella visibly relax and settle into the experience. Moments like these remind us that meaningful connections come in many forms. Diego’s gentle presence brought comfort, confidence and plenty of smiles, turning an everyday haircut into something truly special.
JULY 2026
As the colder weather settles in, we’ve been placing extra focus on keeping our residents, families and team safe and well throughout winter.
One simple but important reminder has been the correct use of face masks to help reduce the spread of seasonal illnesses. To keep the message memorable, we’ve been sharing a light-hearted reminder with our team:
“Please wear your mask fitted to cover your nose and mouth – not like Diego!”
A little humour can go a long way in reinforcing good habits. By continuing to follow simple infection prevention measures, we’re helping to create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone in our community this winter.
JUNE 2026
At our home, Diego is always ready to lend a helping paw whenever one of our residents needs a little extra support.
This week, Tereza had an appointment to have some blood tests taken, and Diego happily accompanied her for moral support. Dressed warmly in his adorable ducky pyjamas to brave the chilly weather, Diego sat patiently by Tereza’s side.
As the blood tests were being taken, Diego provided plenty of cuddles and a welcome distraction from the needle prick. Tereza remained calm and relaxed, gently stroking his ears and chatting softly to him throughout the appointment.
Afterwards, Tereza shared that she hardly felt the needle at all (with thanks to the wonderful nurse!) and said it was incredibly reassuring to have such a loyal little friend there beside her.
Moments like these highlight the special role Diego plays in our home. Whether he is offering comfort, companionship, encouragement, or simply making people smile, Diego has a remarkable way of helping residents feel at ease when they need it most.
We are very lucky to have this four-legged team member looking after us all – especially on cold winter days when a cuddle from Diego is exactly what’s needed.
MAY 2026
Moving into a residential aged care home can feel like a big change, and for our lovely new resident Margaret, joining activities for the first time felt a little daunting.
While she was eager to meet people and become involved in life at the home, it was natural to feel nervous about walking into a room full of unfamiliar faces.
Thankfully, Diego was right by her side.
Margaret recently attended her very first High Tea through our Every Day Living Services, and Diego made sure she didn’t feel alone. Sitting faithfully beside her throughout the afternoon, Diego provided comfort, companionship, and the confidence Margaret needed to take that first step socially.
Not only did Diego help Margaret feel safe and settled, he also became the perfect conversation starter, helping her connect with fellow residents and begin making new friendships over tea, sweet treats, and warm conversation.
It was wonderful to see Margaret smiling, chatting, and enjoying herself throughout the afternoon – and even better to hear she is already looking forward to coming back again.
Sometimes it’s the smallest companions who make the biggest difference.
APRIL 2026
Watching the fish glide through the water in our fishtank is a peaceful way to start the morning – for residents, visitors, and the team alike.
Our beautiful tank is home to a wonderful variety of fish, and keen eyes might even spot some tiny new additions from time to time!
Every morning, Brendan tends to the fish as part of the daily routine. And Diego is right there to supervise.
Whether he’s drawn in by curiosity, the interesting smell of fish food, or simply a desire to help, Diego takes his quality-control role very seriously.
We think the fish food smells questionable. Diego, however, strongly disagrees.
APRIL 2026
Diego has become a much-loved part of welcoming people into our home.
Whether he is greeting family members arriving for a visit, saying hello to residents returning from community outings or appointments, or meeting someone new for the very first time, Diego always brings a sense of warmth and happiness with him.
With his gentle nature, wagging tail and love for being around people, Diego has a lovely way of helping everyone feel relaxed the moment they arrive.
Many visitors are greeted not only by our caring team, but also by Diego eagerly waiting nearby for a pat or cuddle.
It is these little moments – a warm hello, a friendly smile and a happy dog waiting at reception – that help make CraigCare Pascoe Vale feel like home.
APRIL 2026
Mary has always had a deep love of animals, and losing her own dog Missy left a real hole in her daily life.
That connection – the comfort, the companionship, the uncomplicated joy of having an animal around – doesn’t simply go away.
Enter Diego.
When Mary spots him making his way toward her bedroom, she is out of her chair before he’s even reached her.
The cuddles begin immediately and last for as long as both are happy to stay – which, it turns out, is usually quite a long time.
Diego is more than happy to oblige.
These moments with Mary are a beautiful reminder of the bond between people and animals, and how that bond can continue to bring genuine happiness, wherever life takes us.
APRIL 2026
Tereza’s Border Collie Bella holds a very special place in her heart.
She talks about her often – sharing stories, describing their routines together, recalling the little things that made Bella so memorable.
Those happy memories are clearly a real source of warmth.
Diego has a wonderful way of drawing those stories out.
When he settles in beside Tereza, the conversation flows naturally – tales of Bella, fond reminiscing, the kind of gentle sharing that simply feels good.
Diego is, as Tereza would likely confirm, an excellent listener.
He is patient, present, and perfectly content to be petted and loved for as long as she needs.
That’s more than enough.
APRIL 2026
When Margaret wasn’t feeling her best and had taken to bed for some rest, what she missed most was the simple comfort of company. Unable to join in the lifestyle activities and spend time socialising with her friends as she usually would, the day felt a little quieter than normal. But Diego seemed to sense exactly what Margaret needed.
Before long, he made his way into her room and gently settled himself beside her on the bed, happy just to be there with her. He didn’t ask for anything in return – simply offering his calm company, warmth and quiet companionship.
The moment Margaret saw him, her face lit up.
Sometimes, it’s the smallest gestures that bring the greatest comfort. A familiar face, a gentle presence and the feeling that someone is there beside you can make all the difference. Moments like these are a beautiful reminder of the special connection Diego shares with so many of our residents and the warmth he brings to our home each day.
APRIL 2026
With so many friendly faces to visit, cuddles to share, walks to enjoy and quiet moments spent beside residents, Diego’s days are certainly full.
But even Diego knows the importance of taking a little time to rest.
When lunchtime arrives, Diego can often be found curled up on a comfy chair enjoying a well-earned little nap before the afternoon fun begins again.
After a busy morning of spreading smiles and companionship throughout the home, his quiet recharge time is very important.
Just like our caring team who support our residents each day, Diego knows that being at his best for others means taking a moment to rest and recharge too.
Before long, he wakes from his lunchtime snooze refreshed, content and ready to continue his rounds once again – bringing his warm company, wagging tail and gentle nature to everyone he meets.
For many residents, seeing Diego wandering through the home truly brings a lovely sense of comfort, familiarity and happiness to the day.
MARCH 2026
Lynsey and Diego are firm friends – and that much is clear from the moment you see them together.
Their friendship has grown into something genuinely special.
Diego joins Lynsey for regular strolls around the home and sometimes settles in beside him in his room while Lynsey watches videos of the Edinburgh Tattoo or travel documentaries.
The gentle act of patting Diego is soothing in a way that’s hard to put into words – but the results speak for themselves. Familiarity. Comfort. Two friends, exactly where they need to be.
MARCH 2026
In our memory support area of our home, Diego has a way of changing the energy in a room simply by walking through the door. Isabelle is a perfect example.
When Diego arrives, Isabelle becomes more animated than usual, lively, full of conversation in a way that delights everyone around her.
On this occasion, Diego settled in beside her during a game of Bingo as her very own cheerleader.
Whether he was helping her focus or simply enjoying the company, the effect was clear.
And judging by the look on both their faces, Diego was just as happy to be there as Isabelle was to have him.
MARCH 2026
James often speaks to us about his brother and the many treasured memories they shared together.
Keeping those memories alive means a great deal to him, and sometimes all he really needs is someone who will sit beside him, listen patiently and never rush the conversation.
As James fondly reminisces, Diego can sometimes be found quietly settled nearby, listening gently as though he understands every word through the warmth in James’ voice and the love behind his stories.
There is no hurry, no interruption – just quiet companionship and the comfort of being heard.
Moments like these remind us that connection does not always come through words alone.
Sometimes, simply having someone beside you is enough.
And as always, Diego listened to every story carefully… and kept every one of them to himself.
MARCH 2026
When the weather is kind, there’s nothing quite like sitting in the garden – and Rosa enjoys exactly that.
Diego, ever the opportunist when it comes to a good sunbaking session, is more than happy to join her.
The two of them settle in together, watching the birds move through the garden, listening to the sounds around them, soaking up a little warmth.
It’s a simple pleasure, but a meaningful one.
Moments like this – unhurried, peaceful, and shared – are some of the simple daily acts of joy Rosa loves.
MARCH 2026
Yvonne has always had a deep connection to animals, having worked with them throughout her career.
That love doesn’t require words to express itself – and with Diego, it never has to.
As soon as Diego enters the room, something shifts in Yvonne.
Her hands reach for him instinctively, wrapping around him to hold him close.
Diego settles himself on her lap without fuss, perfectly content to sit with her as they watch television together while she gently strokes his ears.
The connection between them is quiet, but unmistakable.
In its own way, it is a full conversation.
MARCH 2026
Every good friendship involves a little thought about what works best for the other person – and Diego has clearly given this some thought when it comes to David.
David’s movement has limitations, but Diego seems to have found the perfect solution – sit on the table. From that height, David can reach him comfortably – no bending, no strain – and the two of them can simply spend time together. Diego remains calm in the face of David’s infectious laughter, never startled, always present.
And when David’s hand finds Diego’s ears and the patting begins, you can watch the change happen in real time. His mood lifts. His face lights up. It is one of those small, extraordinary moments that make a day.
MARCH 2026
There’s really no other way to describe it. John and Diego met, and that was that – instant, mutual, and completely obvious to anyone watching.
Diego has a particular talent for encouraging John to go on regular walks around the home.
John tucks Diego into his walker, and the two of them set off on slow, happy walks – John stopping to chat with other residents and the team, Diego drawing smiles and curious glances from everyone they pass.
It gets John moving, gets him connecting, and gives him a reason to find his way to reception almost every single day.
