Throughout every step of Lauren’s journey, Alfie has been a loyal and protective companion. He’ll never stop looking after her!

I bought Milo as a puppy just after I was diagnosed with cancer (aged 20). He was old enough to come home with us just two days after I had major surgery.

He was a lovely pup, very caring and always eager to stay near me. When he was nine months old, I had another, even bigger operation, which affected my arm and face – and Milo was a dream. He was so gentle and careful not to touch the affected areas, and he always lay next to me to keep me company while I was recovering.

He was so gentle

Similarly, when I had six weeks of radiotherapy treatment, he provided me with so much love and continuous support. He’s almost six now and I’ve just reached five years of being cancer free!

I love how he still twirls in circles when he wants a treat and gets so excited when visitors come over. He still likes to sleep across my lap, even now I’m recovered – he’s like my own little therapy dog.

James wasn’t always certain about getting a dog, but as soon as he met Hope, he fell in love

I think it's important to start by saying I wasn't convinced about getting a dog. I had never had one before and was concerned about the commitment. I knew that if we had one, it would be our responsibility to meet all their needs and give them an amazing life, and that isn’t always easy. My wife, however, was sold on the idea, so I went along!

As it turns out, she was completely right – getting a dog was 100% the right decision for us. We found gorgeous Hope, a Border Collie working dog who hadn't quite made the grade on the farm. It didn’t take her long to become part of the family. The moment she saw all her new toys and comfy bed, she was instantly settled.

She tries to herd us around the house

I think she still has some of her old farm habits, because sometimes she tries to herd us around the house. If me and my wife are in separate rooms, she’ll flit between us until we’re all in the same place. She just wants our little family to be cuddled up together, which is why you'll normally find her sitting in-between me and my wife on the sofa.

She always greets me at the door when I finish work, even in the early hours. Hope has completed our family and I wouldn't change anything in the world about her.

Despite everything life’s thrown at him, Louise’s dog Geezer always finds a way to stay optimistic

Geezer came into our lives last September. We found him at our local RSPCA centre and instantly fell in love with his infectious zest for life. He may only have three legs, but this doesn’t stop him from doing all the things he enjoys, usually at full speed!

His infectious zest for life

Our dog has taught us no matter how tough life can be, there is always a brighter day coming. He may stumble sometimes but he always gets backup, with a smile on his face and a wagging tail.

Superhero Saber helps owner John keep going when times get tough

My dog Saber has been the mainstay of my life in total. I am 66 years old and lost my partner of 30 years to Cancer. I was depressed and went inside myself with grief. Then I got the opportunity to get a dog, Saber. He is a cross German Shepherd/Siberian Husky.

Life during lockdown would have been impossible without his companionship

He has brought me out of myself ever since I brought him home. He inspires me to get up and out in the morning, he has taught me how to live in the moment and gave me the inspiration to exercise and get out each day instead of feeling sorry for myself and my situation. Life during lockdown would have been impossible without his companionship.

Alfie may be small, but he has a big personality and always puts a smile on people’s face!

Alfie is a Shih Tzu. Before I got him, he was abused as a puppy and was sadly left with spinal damage. This means he struggles to walk any distance and suffers from a limp – but it just makes me love him all the more.

Alfie loves life, cats and meeting new people, especially children. He travels around in his pram like a prince in his golden carriage!

He’s like a prince in his golden carriage!

I’m disabled myself and in pain most days, but he gives me a reason to get up and get out no matter how I’m feeling. I love the way he puts a smile on people’s faces when they see him. Alfie is so cute that everyone always notices my brave little star. He’s proved that you don’t have to be Marilyn Monroe to stop traffic!

Josie will always be grateful to Dash for helping to bring purpose to her days

I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression since my teenage years, and over lockdown, I was in a really bad place. My fiancé and I had talked about getting a dog since we met, and after buying our first home last year, we decided that the time was finally right – enter Dash.

He is such a blessing. I’ve never known a dog as affectionate as he is! He’s obsessed with giving us cuddles and kisses, and always seems to know when I’m struggling. He gives my days a structure and fills them with light.

He gives my days a structure and fills them with light

I get up in the morning because I know I have to feed him, and I look forward to playing with him on our daily walks, which bring me such joy. Getting out of the house and exercising in the fresh air is good for both of us. I was crippled by my anxiety before and wouldn’t even leave the house, but Dash has given me a purpose and now I look forward to exploring new places together.

Dash absolutely loves playing, especially fetch with his favourite ball, or a game of tug. He’s never happier than when the three of us are out in the garden together, and I love seeing his tail wag as he bunny hops through the grass.