Ever since he was young, Bonz has spent many happy years roaming the countryside with Tina

Bonz came to us from The Dogs Trust when he was two years old. He’d already been returned twice as he had ‘behavioural problems’. We persuaded the dog psychologist that he would be fine with us, and after a few kennel visits, he was allowed to come home. We were his third rescue home, and he was our third rescue dog.

A very insecure Goldie at first, he cowered at traffic, didn’t trust people and stressed over so many things. But he quickly became the wonderful dog and companion he is today. He would come with me to look after horses and rabbits or walk miles up Welsh mountains and the Kentish downs.

He still looks amazing and has certainly enjoyed life

He learnt to swim after throwing himself in a deep stream where he managed to hook his paw over a branch on the far side of the bank. He was hanging on for dear life and no calling would make him come back, so we waded across and reassured him all was well. He could then swim anywhere!

Plaything fetch and carrying things in his mouth were among his favourite pastimes. The locals would all recognise the Goldie that walked along the lane with a pink Frisbee in his mouth. He would retrieve but wasn’t so keen on ‘drop’!

We may never know his story in those early puppy years, but now in his twilight, he still looks amazing and has certainly enjoyed life. He’s just struggling with his arthritis and the usual old age slowing him down. He has his daily painkillers to help him through, and still enjoys a small throw of his favourite ball and a gentle stroll. Of course, like most Goldies, Bonz enjoys his food and lots of treats. When the time comes, it’ll be hard, but we’ll always do what is right for our dear Bonz.

Mark’s dog Dobby has many quirky habits that bring his family endless joy

Dobby is a Whippet and Italian greyhound cross who always makes us laugh. He enjoys stealing people’s socks, running very fast around Chesterracecourse and pinching our toast, but what he loves most is climbing intothe basket of warm washing after it has been tumble dried.

He enjoys stealing people’s socks

He has made a real difference to our family life during the pandemic. My daughter has always wanted a dog and he has provided her so much comfort over the last six months, helping her to get out and exercise and stay positive. He can be a little over enthusiastic at times, but that’s just part of his charm.

Jacky lives on her own, but thanks to her dog Izzy, she knows she’ll always have a reason to smile every day.

Izzy is my whole world. I’m 64 and live alone with multiple health issues, so Izzy gives me a reason to get out of bed in the morning. She always puts a smile on my face and is adored by everyone who meets her. She's the most affectionate dog I've ever met, showering everyone with kisses and cuddles.

She always puts a smile on my face

Izzy is just amazing and has an enthusiasm for everything in life – especially playing with other dogs!

Sarah never thought she’d be lucky enough to have a dog like Storm in her life

I’ve always been a huge fan of dogs, but working as a Paramedic means I’m out of the house for long shifts both day and night, so I don’t have the time to look after one. At the start of this year, I began to really struggle, and living alone led me to feel isolated. I was lacking motivation to leave the house, eating rubbish and stressing more than usual.

In February, my mum’s dog passed away unexpectedly. Instead of getting a new dog for herself, she offered to co-parent a pup with me, so I could finally get the four-legged companion I’d wanted for so long. Together, we take care of Storm. She looks after him when I’m at work, and I get to spend time with him when I’m home.

Storm has turned my life around

Storm has turned my life around. I’m happier and out walking every day, losing weight and back to feeling motivated and energised. He’s amazing company both in and out of the house and he brings so much joy to everyone we meet. His floppy ears and cheeky head tilt are enough to melt your heart.

With Storm in my life, I’m so excited to see what adventures the future holds for both of us.

Bella is a huge support for Sarah, whether she’s helping her care for her mum or getting her through the loss of her other dog, Oscar

Bella joined our family in October 2017. It took her nearly a year to fully settle, but she quickly became best friends with our other two dogs, Paddy and Oscar.

She’s very loving and has been my rock through some hard times. I care for my mum, who lives with dementia, and Bella is very patient and loving with her. She’s also very gentle with young children and loves to greet them and get some fuss. She even loves making friends with cats.

She’s been my rock through some hard times

Bella seems to sense when I am feeling low, because she stays close and almost cuddles me! We lost Oscar last year to osteosarcoma and she was very loving during that time. She often went to the tree that Oscar used to like sitting under. I would be lost without her and Paddy.

Jaxson has helped Rebecca and her family transform their lifestyle and find an appreciation for the great outdoors

We got Jaxson in October last year and he has completely changed our lives. We were not very active and had an unhealthy lifestyle, but since Jaxson has been in our lives we have two daily walks and really enjoy our time out in the fresh air.

He has completely changed our lives

He is a Cocker Spaniel and is full of energy and is very cheeky but also so loving. I have always been a cat person and never knew I could love a dog as much as I do ours. He brings us all so much joy and laughter.