On Thursday October 2, I experienced not only the very sad loss of my beloved dog Tom, but the extraordinary compassion and understanding of wonderful folk at Estcourt Veterinary Surgery.

My rescue greyhound Tom had suffered having his ears cut to remove his racing tattoos before he and I found each other. That was 12 years ago.

He was a two-year-old black and white greyhound and of the many greyhounds and lurchers I have rescued over a 25-year period, Tom was the most affectionate, loyal dog anyone would be proud to have in their lives, and indeed I was. His passing has left a huge void in my life. His past experiences had resulted in him being difficult to handle if he felt threatened. He was 38kg, so no lightweight. Vet visits have always been challenging, some vets refusing to even see him. That changed when we came to Devizes.

The vets, nurses and lovely Karin on reception at Estcourt Vets have always made us feel very welcome, not just when I visited with Tom but with my other dogs too.

They knew of Tom’s issues and always handled him with kindness and understanding, everything was done to make his visits as stress- free as possible, which meant so much to me; they would be faced with an angry frightened dog but it never fazed them.

On his last few visits he was dealt with in the back of my van, which kept him calm and relaxed. James, one of the vets, had been treating Tom for the past year or so and was so understanding and helpful. I really am grateful, James.

When events on October 2 meant it was time to say farewell to my loyal friend, what was to follow was a show of human compassion and care above and beyond.

Emma the vet and Cara, a nurse, attended to Tom with kindness and care, making absolutely sure that he was handled gently and with dignity. He slipped away quietly listening to my voice in my van where he was happy.

I miss Tom dreadfully. He was a huge character who it isn’t easy to learn to live without, but I am comforted knowing that he was surrounded by love and caring at the end, all made possible by Emma, Cara and Karin. Thank you all so much.

Kala Ainsley, Hillier Road, Devizes.