The wellbeing benefits of living with a dog are well-documented, from their stress reducing effects to their positive effect on our immune system. But sometimes it takes an incredible case study to remind us of just how life-changing and rewarding caring for a dog can be.

Patrick Stewart has done just that by sharing his story of fostering a two-year-old Pit Bull named Ginger.

The actor took on Ginger through US charity Wags and Walks and he spoke to People about how, after just a week of caring for her, she’s changed his life for the better.

“She has shifted my sense of where our world is going”: Patrick Stewart on the power of rescue dogs