Simba sensed when people were feeling low and the companion assistance dog wanted to brighten their lives.

For 10-years Simba, with owner Norm Atkinson in tow, was a regular sight around Nowra.

Sadly Simba had a form of lymphoma cancer and Norm had to let him go.

Norm said Simba was a local identity.

“He would just calm people down,” Norm said.

“Simba would drag me to people when he thought they are not doing well. He could feel and sense when people were low - Simba was a special dog.”

Simba had suffered abuse before Norm adopted him and the two had a special bond.

“Simba was a companion assistance dog for me,” Norm said.

Norm suffers from anxiety issues and Simba was there to support him.

“Simba was a relief for my anxiety with his unconditional love and by being my friend,” Norm said.

“He seemed to know when I was not doing well and he would come to me and make sure I was alright.

“Simba was also a companion assistance dog for a lot a people in town. He walked around the town for 10-years and he was allowed in some shops.

“People did not mind him coming into their shops because he had such a good manner.”

Simba often spent time with people when Norm was doing his shopping and was also a regular at the Aboriginal Medical Service.

Norm added the Berry Veterinarians and the local animal welfare league association all supported him during his heartbreaking journey.

He said many people were coming up to him and asking him where Simba is?

“I then have to let them what had happened which is a bit hard,” he said.

He said if anybody was struggling with a mental health issue they should get a dog.

‘It (having a dog) is good for you but I will be waiting a while until I get another one,” he said.

Norm stressed people must be prepared to take on the responsibility that comes with owning a dog.