Daisy came into my life when she was 14 months old. My partner and I bought her from a family that hadn't treated her well. She was extremely nervous, but with a lot of love and patience, she blossomed into a confident, friendly, beautiful Jack Russell.
\nEight months later, I went into A&E. It turned out that I had sepsis and was put into an induced coma. I was in intensive care for two months. Then, three months later, I came home.
\nDaisy and I needed to bond again but I was still very ill, so she couldn't sit on my knee or come too close to me anymore.
\nDaisy was so patient throughout it all. No one needed to tell her to what to do, she simply kept her space until I called her. When the nurses came over, she’d quietly sit in the other room – bless her!
\n\n\n\n\nHer lovely ways kept me alive
\n
My partner became my carer, as well as Daisy's only walker. During this time, I was depressed and house bound, but she slept with me when I was poorly and gave me gentle kisses to cheer me up. Her lovely ways kept me alive when I wanted to end it all.
\nI now live on my own and she’s still a beautiful, loving, caring girl. I'm just starting to walk her again (with the help of my walker) and she’s learned how to walk beside me without ever running away.
\nDaisy loves it when I sing her a lullaby and she always looks so content when I tell her how pretty she is. She watches birds with amazement and her tail looks like a helicopter when she wants a treat. She loves walking with her doggy friends, and loves her own company, too.
\nMy dear Daisy is a wonderful soul. She has all of my heart, and I thank my lucky stars that she’s in my world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dora","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dora","dom":false,"doy":false,"location":"North East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/970f028ff102345b27b082139d036e21/f9913/dora-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/970f028ff102345b27b082139d036e21/f836f/dora-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/970f028ff102345b27b082139d036e21/2244e/dora-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/970f028ff102345b27b082139d036e21/f9913/dora-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Dora was rescued by the RSPCA in September 2022, and came into our lives when we adopted her in May 2023. She had survived starvation and neglect at the hands of her trainer, who was sentenced to 32 weeks in prison and given a lifetime ban from owning animals.
\nDora is a sweet, bright and affectionate baby. She’s quite the comedian and wakes us up every morning by howling in our faces. She loves to 'curtsy' to greet people when they come into the house. She lightens up our work calls by laying on her back behind us and pulling goofy faces.
\n\n\n\n\nI want to give her as many experiences as I can to make up for her life before
\n
Her favourite trick at the moment is to jump as high as she can when we leave the house on our walks. She also likes to outrun her best friend, Jadzia the German Shepherd, and play chase with her.
\nTo me, Dora is an inspiration. She’s a reminder than no matter what you go through in life, you can't stop and wallow in misery. She’s a brave girl who genuinely loves humans and craves attention and affection. She makes my life better and I love thinking about the happy days I will give her.
\nShe inspires me to look after myself, so that I can look after her. I’ve been to places I never would have gone, just because I want to give her as many experiences as I can to make up for her life before. She’s the best decision I've ever made.
\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luther","tags":["Small","Rescue Dogs","Funny"],"slug":"meet-luther","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/784811d0067b3feeef966f8ea0227501/f9913/luther-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/784811d0067b3feeef966f8ea0227501/f836f/luther-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/784811d0067b3feeef966f8ea0227501/2244e/luther-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/784811d0067b3feeef966f8ea0227501/f9913/luther-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Luther is a rescue Miniature Poodle.
\nWhen I lost my last dog, I found myself in a really dark place. Then, Luther came along and brightened up my life again! We’re a match made in heaven, and he makes me laugh every day.
\n\n\n\n\nWe’re soulmates – I can’t imagine life without him
\n
We live in a small village and when we’re out and about, everyone stops to talk to Luther. If he wants to visit the neighbours, he goes and knocks on the door until they answer it.
\nOne of his favourite things is to steal the mail out of the letter box and hide it. He’s laid back, funny, friendly (he loves everybody and everything) and he’s very cheeky, too.
\nI love him to the moon and back. We’re soulmates – I can’t imagine life without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kin","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-kin","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4dad0745b2f26200d319bfd10ac99820/f9913/kin-header-2024-doty.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4dad0745b2f26200d319bfd10ac99820/f836f/kin-header-2024-doty.jpg 200w,\n/static/4dad0745b2f26200d319bfd10ac99820/2244e/kin-header-2024-doty.jpg 400w,\n/static/4dad0745b2f26200d319bfd10ac99820/f9913/kin-header-2024-doty.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This amazing, cheeky girl has brought so much joy to my life.
\nKin is unique because she’s the very first and only Japanese Akita Inu in the UK to be actively working as a seizure alert dog.
\nWhere there had been danger and darkness in my life due to epileptic seizures, Kin has brought safety and light. Warning me of an impending seizure, this beautiful girl has revolutionised my life – allowing me time to put myself in a place of safety and looking after me while I’m unconscious.
\n\n\nIt’s difficult to put into words what Kin means to me
\n
Just this week, I was having an unpleasant and painful medical procedure in hospital, and Kin was by my side throughout. She could detect that the pain was inducing a seizure, and she gave her warning signals, which I alerted the medical staff to. They heeded my instructions and Kin’s warnings, and they halted the procedure, which brought me back from the brink of having a seizure.
\nIt’s difficult to put into words what Kin means to me, other than she is my absolute world! I love her so much.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Abbie","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-abbie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3e0afc92c58b0e1c90b9d01197c626da/f9913/abbie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3e0afc92c58b0e1c90b9d01197c626da/f836f/abbie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3e0afc92c58b0e1c90b9d01197c626da/2244e/abbie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3e0afc92c58b0e1c90b9d01197c626da/f9913/abbie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Abbie is a beautiful dog with such a lovely temperament. She is the reason I exercise every day. With her by my side, I can walk for miles. My husband was chief walker until I started exercising for weight loss. Abbie keeps me focussed on my goal.
\n\n\nWith her by my side, I can walk for miles
\n
She is constantly fascinated with the veg I started growing last year. She’salso very friendly and enjoys regular cuddles with all the delivery drivers.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ace","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ace","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/945087fda2fe0e7cf8b274ea3680fe31/f9913/ace-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/945087fda2fe0e7cf8b274ea3680fe31/f836f/ace-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/945087fda2fe0e7cf8b274ea3680fe31/2244e/ace-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/945087fda2fe0e7cf8b274ea3680fe31/f9913/ace-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Ace from a British-run dog home out in Cyprus. He was a street dog and had been found by a lovely Cypriot family, after being shot and left for dead by an unknown person. They took him to a vet who had to remove multiple pellets, and it was touch and go for a while. Luckily, he recovered well and they cared for him until he was fit and healthy. Then, they took him to the dog home so that he could find his forever family.
\nWhen Ace finally arrived in the UK, he was hungry, tired and scared after his long journey, but bribing him with some cooked chicken helped me to win him over! I brought him home and in the morning he met our two young children for the first time – and he was terrified. It took him a few days to venture out of his dog crate.
\n\n\nHe now adores the children and his new home
\n
After a month of being loved and treated like the prince that he is, Ace became braver and started going on walks with my wife and I when the kids were in bed. Almost two years on and he now adores the children and his new home with our family. We take him on lots of walks around the village, as well as further afield. He is a very loving and devoted dog, who likes nothing more than to snuggle on the sofa where he falls asleep instantly, snoring like a freight train!
\nHe was named Ace by our eldest, who’s a six-year-old superhero fan. Apparently, in the original comics, Batman had a rescue dog named Ace! A perfect name for our perfect dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Abby","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-abby","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b32f62c88b8c8c4945c5562fbfcf5efc/f9913/abby-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b32f62c88b8c8c4945c5562fbfcf5efc/f836f/abby-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/b32f62c88b8c8c4945c5562fbfcf5efc/2244e/abby-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/b32f62c88b8c8c4945c5562fbfcf5efc/f9913/abby-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Abby is a rescue dog from Spain who was very thin, had a digestive problem and didn’t know how to play with a ball. She was also terrified of most things, including umbrellas, lunchboxes and motorbikes.
\nA year on, we’ve not only got her health under control with a special diet, but she’s confident, happy and makes us laugh (when she’s not chewing my swimming costume).
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s a wonderful addition to our life
\n
Abby is very sociable and loves to play in the park, although she doesn’t always bring the ball back to us! The customers in our shop adore her, too, and she really cheered us up after the death of our previous dog. She has such a lovely nature and is a wonderful addition to our life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Albert","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-albert","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/89900a67b0086c552883ad15f9b9fc06/f9913/albert-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/89900a67b0086c552883ad15f9b9fc06/f836f/albert-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/89900a67b0086c552883ad15f9b9fc06/2244e/albert-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/89900a67b0086c552883ad15f9b9fc06/f9913/albert-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I lost my dog a few years ago and decided that I was going to wait until my circumstances had changed to get another. I then met my amazing partner and we decided to look for a puppy.
\nAfter a lot of discussion, we decided on a St Bernard. We found a wonderful lady in England who had just had a litter and we contacted her and that was it, Albert was booked. He brings us all more joy and happiness then we could imagine and we could not love him more.
\nAlbert makes us laugh every day and brings us together as a family. He will also walk down the aisle with me at our wedding next year. We just can’t wait!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Albert","tags":["Small","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-albert-nicole","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b5e50dc51a26f38ad0196d20f9dd88e2/f9913/albert-nicole-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b5e50dc51a26f38ad0196d20f9dd88e2/f836f/albert-nicole-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/b5e50dc51a26f38ad0196d20f9dd88e2/2244e/albert-nicole-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/b5e50dc51a26f38ad0196d20f9dd88e2/f9913/albert-nicole-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We could not love him more
\n
When my partner died in 2015, my friends clubbed together to save enough money to cover the adoption fees for Albert.
\nGaz and I had always dreamed of owning a black pug called Albert, so when he passed away, my friends knew that having a dog would be the only thing that could help me through. I saved him and he saved me.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s been by my side through the best and worst times of my life
\n
I love Albert endlessly. He is the most devoted, loyal dog in the world. He knows when I’m sad and he’s happy when I’m happy.
\nI don’t know what I would ever do without me. He’s nine years old now and has been by my side through the worst and best times of my life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Albie","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-albie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/685c7f6e59c08c9d6128024ee99c49c8/f9913/albie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/685c7f6e59c08c9d6128024ee99c49c8/f836f/albie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/685c7f6e59c08c9d6128024ee99c49c8/2244e/albie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/685c7f6e59c08c9d6128024ee99c49c8/f9913/albie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Albie, aka the naughtiest dog in the world, shares his infectious happinesswith everyone. He is an adventurer and a born explorer. As soon as his nose starts sniffing, you know you are in for a journey!
\n\n\nHe’s attended picnics, football matches and fitness classes
\n
His past exploits have included running into the local supermarket for breakfast, trying to swim to France and joining in with the local paddleboarder and swimmers. He’s attended picnics, football matches and fitness classes, and once even tried to jump into a stranger’s car! He’s also a bit of a treasure hunter and finds all sorts of things on his walks.
\nLife is never dull with Albie around, and if you’re feeling sad, he’ll lift your spirits back up. I may have given him a home, but he’s brought me a purpose and endless happiness.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Albus","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-albus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/37470c70a1f0ee3f6383bb6c10b9bf4a/f9913/albus-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/37470c70a1f0ee3f6383bb6c10b9bf4a/f836f/albus-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/37470c70a1f0ee3f6383bb6c10b9bf4a/2244e/albus-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/37470c70a1f0ee3f6383bb6c10b9bf4a/f9913/albus-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Five years ago, I brought my French Bulldog Albus home. I remember spending hours searching on the internet ‘how do I know if my Frenchie is happy?’, because he always looked so grumpy!
\n\n\nHe always looked so grumpy!
\n
I’ve come to the conclusion that he just has one of those faces. Over the years, he’s been by my side through some really tough times, and he’s definitely helped me to get through them all. He follows me around when I'm anxious, which reminds me to sit down and take a breather. Albus always gives the perfect cuddles and loves a smooch or two.
\nIt’s become pretty clear that Albus is happiest when I’m happy – or when we leave him home alone and he’s free to snooze on the sofa!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e9150073de72480746bfdabb7d05228f/f9913/alfienew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e9150073de72480746bfdabb7d05228f/f836f/alfienew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e9150073de72480746bfdabb7d05228f/2244e/alfienew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e9150073de72480746bfdabb7d05228f/f9913/alfienew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Alfie when he was just eight weeks old, just after I had retired. I have rheumatoid arthritis and need to keep myself mobile – and Alfie is just what I need, providing me with reason to get out and walk every day.
\n\n\nHe can be very naughty
\n
He is physically and mentally a force of nature, but he is such amazing company and we love him dearly. He can be very naughty – he knows what he shouldn’t do but likes to do it anyway! He always makes up for it though, by jumping up and giving us kisses.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-alice","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/baf6cea622537afa0c1dcf314bc1b30e/f9913/alfie-alice-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/baf6cea622537afa0c1dcf314bc1b30e/f836f/alfie-alice-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/baf6cea622537afa0c1dcf314bc1b30e/2244e/alfie-alice-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/baf6cea622537afa0c1dcf314bc1b30e/f9913/alfie-alice-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Alfie is a 13-year-old Jack Russell and Yorkshire Terrier cross. He’s a ball of energy and positivity despite facing some health challenges. After beating testicular cancer and managing a heart murmur with medication, he still loves to play with his toys and go for short walks.
\n\n\n\n\nHe never fails to bring a smile to my face
\n
He brings so much joy to my life and he’s a constant reminder of the power of perseverance and happiness, even in tough times. His playful and affectionate nature makes him a pleasure to be around, and he never fails to bring a smile to my face.
\nHe may not be able to run as fast as he used to, but that doesn't stop him from living life to the full every day. Whether snuggling up for a nap, playing with his toys, or just enjoying a quiet stroll, he’s always by my side, spreading love and joy wherever he goes.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-amy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4380b4eff28d0f70dafb67f13b9b1dbb/f9913/alfie-amy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4380b4eff28d0f70dafb67f13b9b1dbb/f836f/alfie-amy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4380b4eff28d0f70dafb67f13b9b1dbb/2244e/alfie-amy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4380b4eff28d0f70dafb67f13b9b1dbb/f9913/alfie-amy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog Alfie (aka Alfred, Alfie Moo, Moose or Moosey) is my best friend. I was approached by a rescue service who desperately needed an urgent foster for him. After a month, I knew we had the most amazing bond, so I adopted him.
\nAt the time I was getting my life back together after a tricky couple of years and Alfie became such a massive part of that journey. When the country went into lockdown and I was living away from my family, I was so glad to have him with me!
\n\n\n\n\nI feel so honoured that I can give him a loving home
\n
He's still a nervous dog, but he's so clever and I feel so honoured that I can give him a loving home. He never lets me lie in, and he insists on walkies first thing in the morning, even on a day off! That is unless it’s raining, when he quickly turns back round for home.
\nHe's grown to trust and love my parents and partner. He's also the biggest cheese fiend and can smell it from a mile away. While he doesn't like the car, he always enjoys our adventures out and about.
\nI'm proud I get to come home to Moose every day. I don't know what he went through before he came to me (and I don't want to know), but he's an inspiration!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-anna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECA//EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABuuNgrLKeGi2AP//EABoQAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhIDIjP/2gAIAQEAAQUCjgnLhROmXeCKdGjp6F8T/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAESD/2gAIAQMBAT8BI//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIRD/2gAIAQIBAT8BahB5/8QAHhAAAQMEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQACERASITEDInH/2gAIAQEABj8Cl5hXcbpFLZyF2dGIgLSJO15T/8QAGxAAAwADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIUFhMVH/2gAIAQEAAT8hthtEJDfQntj6W4rKLTkwIwdQJsoPbtQr+s//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEAfQA//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABERD/2gAIAQMBAT8QSQos/8QAFxEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARUf/aAAgBAgEBPxATDZxJQgv/xAAcEAACAwADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMUFRYZH/2gAIAQEAAT8QEw0hOjskw4UBkYWN9RIAkriERzAHAoNHy9jE2Ex9RjivAAZZuFy5BWDge/Yx1XxP/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/64df2bed22a5cae0e3ec78a65c59aceb/f9913/alfie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/64df2bed22a5cae0e3ec78a65c59aceb/f836f/alfie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/64df2bed22a5cae0e3ec78a65c59aceb/2244e/alfie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/64df2bed22a5cae0e3ec78a65c59aceb/f9913/alfie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"In 2019, we noticed Alfie was starting to slow down a lot, and he seemed to be getting old before his time. Sadly, it turned out he was gradually losing his sight, and he became very withdrawn.
\n\n\nAlfie has shown such resilience
\n
At the time, we were devastated, but Alfie has shown such resilience and found a way to overcome all his difficulties. He has so much strength and brings me endless happiness. He’s taught me to make the most of life andhe will forever be my best friend and inspiration!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie Bow","tags":["Funny","Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alife-bow","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1ba024e454cc659cceb2b88eb80ed852/d8815/alfie-bow-header.png","srcSet":"/static/1ba024e454cc659cceb2b88eb80ed852/69585/alfie-bow-header.png 200w,\n/static/1ba024e454cc659cceb2b88eb80ed852/497c6/alfie-bow-header.png 400w,\n/static/1ba024e454cc659cceb2b88eb80ed852/d8815/alfie-bow-header.png 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\nAlfie loves life, cats and meeting new people, especially children. He travels around in his pram like a prince in his golden carriage!
\n\n\nHe’s like a prince in his golden carriage!
\n
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!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-debra","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2c5bab74b894b3cb967a7b7a91da1851/f9913/alfie-debra-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2c5bab74b894b3cb967a7b7a91da1851/f836f/alfie-debra-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2c5bab74b894b3cb967a7b7a91da1851/2244e/alfie-debra-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2c5bab74b894b3cb967a7b7a91da1851/f9913/alfie-debra-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Alfie the Springer Spaniel is my best friend. He loves nothing more than spending time outdoors and so we spend hours exploring forests and nature trails together. He also enjoys snuggling and snoozing, and most evenings you can find him curled up on my daughter’s bed – she’s the family member that spoils him most!
\n\n\nAlfie always knows how to brighten my day
\n
He is such a well-behaved dog. Recently, I was diagnosed with a visual impairment and started to struggle both physically and mentally. Luckily for me, Alfie always knows exactly how to brighten my day – it’s almost as if he can sense that I’m having problems with my sight. He sticks closely by my side no matter where I go and always likes to make sure I’m not left alone to struggle. He is my very own adorable hero.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Funny","Brave & loyal","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-jemima","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7f7f531bdda33ccf9a19adb84eb13e28/9a128/alfie-jemima-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7f7f531bdda33ccf9a19adb84eb13e28/f836f/alfie-jemima-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7f7f531bdda33ccf9a19adb84eb13e28/2244e/alfie-jemima-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7f7f531bdda33ccf9a19adb84eb13e28/9a128/alfie-jemima-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Alfie is a cheeky chappy who is only 12 weeks old. He adds so much value to my life. I’m a nurse, and after a tough day of treating Covid patients, he never fails to greet me at the door with a tail wag.
\n\n\nHe adds so much value to my life
\n
On my days off, I take Alfie on outings. Our most recent one was to a pet shop, where he walked out with a toy in his mouth. Luckily, I quickly realised and paid for it!
\nHis love of water must be because he’s a cockapoo. He splashes his paws in his water bowl, digging to get to the bottom, and has recently taken his water obsession even further by climbing into the shower with me!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Senior","Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-emily","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8fb6abce3f3cbc449e535be5994baa63/f9913/alfie-emily-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8fb6abce3f3cbc449e535be5994baa63/f836f/alfie-emily-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8fb6abce3f3cbc449e535be5994baa63/2244e/alfie-emily-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8fb6abce3f3cbc449e535be5994baa63/f9913/alfie-emily-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Alfie as a rescue puppy when he was eight weeks old and I was nine years old. He has grown up with us through all the big life moments. He is such a caring and insightful little man who is always aware of how everyone is feeling. If someone is sad or unwell, he will sneak over with his waggy tail to be cuddled.
\n\n\nAlfie has had a massive impact on my grandad's quality of life
\n
Most importantly, Alfie has had a massive impact on my grandad's quality of life. Alfie stays with my grandparents for some of the week due to my mum's work schedule. My grandad, who is in his 90s, keeps active by taking Alfie for walks on the days that they’re together.
\nThey have such a lovely bond. My grandad even has a framed photograph of Alfie next to his bed, but none of the rest of the family! When they are together, Alfie follows him around everywhere until my grandad sits in his chair. Then Alfie will snuggle in between him and the arm of the chair and lay his paw on my grandad's knee while they both have a snooze.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Small","Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-karen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/44f0710eeb8772509f5fd934456e1c94/0faef/alfie-karen-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/44f0710eeb8772509f5fd934456e1c94/f836f/alfie-karen-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/44f0710eeb8772509f5fd934456e1c94/2244e/alfie-karen-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/44f0710eeb8772509f5fd934456e1c94/0faef/alfie-karen-header.jpg 654w","sizes":"(max-width: 654px) 100vw, 654px"}}}},"html":"Alfie is a very quirky boy! He prefers to do the opposite of all other dogs. He hides under the table the moment you get his harness out. He doesn't play fetch – he’ll run for the ball, but there’s no chance you’ll get it back until he's eaten it!
\n\n\n\n\nHe prefers to do the opposite of all other dogs
\n
He doesn't like meals. He will do NOTHING for a treat. He rips up all his beds, preferring a bean bag or the floor. He won't give his paw, sit, lie or recall. And he loved escaping until we built our own Fort Knox!
\nHe drinks from dirty puddles, water features, or anything other than his bowl – unless he's desperate. He's a typical terrier: full of character, spirited and an anarchist. But we love him dearly.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfie","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfie-jennifer","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7060d26b7aaf8ac9b454b77a936cce23/f9913/alfie-one-scot-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7060d26b7aaf8ac9b454b77a936cce23/f836f/alfie-one-scot-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7060d26b7aaf8ac9b454b77a936cce23/2244e/alfie-one-scot-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7060d26b7aaf8ac9b454b77a936cce23/f9913/alfie-one-scot-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got Alfie during the pandemic as I live alone and wanted some companionship. Because of all the lockdowns, I barely left the house and my mood was constantly low.
\nI had been saving for a dog for a while but with the prices jumping up I couldn't find any I could afford. I randomly found an advert for Alfie and managed to be the first person to get in contact – it was clearly meant to be. He has brought so much happiness into my life and is helping me to get out of the house and interacting with people again.
\n\n\nHe has brought me so much happiness
\n
Since getting Alfie, I have been focusing on his training, which has given me something to do while spending all this time at home. He has made such a massive difference to my mood and quality of life. I honestly don't know what I would do without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfred and Julia","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfred-julia","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f3773fd9d9628385279d4bf0f5602eaf/f9913/alfred-julia-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f3773fd9d9628385279d4bf0f5602eaf/f836f/alfred-julia-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f3773fd9d9628385279d4bf0f5602eaf/2244e/alfred-julia-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f3773fd9d9628385279d4bf0f5602eaf/f9913/alfred-julia-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Alfred is adored by our whole family, but he’s a real support dog to our eldest daughter Jessamy, who is a young adult with Autism. He seems to intuitively sense how she’s feeling, and always responds accordingly. He’s always so fun and loves to play with her – he even acts as her personal trainer, getting her to enjoy spending time outdoors.
\n\n\nHe seems to intuitively sense how she’s feeling
\n
He loves to sit on sofas and chairs and when we are at the table for a family meal, he thinks that he too should be given a seat, just so he can sit with us! We couldn’t ask for a more loyal and loving companion.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Amber","tags":["Support Dogs","Brave & loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-amber","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6a9f66633ea619d30d9085e727c46721/f9913/amber-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6a9f66633ea619d30d9085e727c46721/f836f/amber-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6a9f66633ea619d30d9085e727c46721/2244e/amber-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6a9f66633ea619d30d9085e727c46721/f9913/amber-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Cockapoo Amber has helped me to stay positive through the toughest times of my life. She came into our family when I was 16 and first started experiencing symptoms of my illness. She was only eight weeks old and quickly became my best friend, as I had to leave school and my life as I knew it began to fall apart.
\nIt was almost two years later I was diagnosed with a life-limiting illness that left me housebound, in constant pain and extremely weak. At my lowest, Amber was the only thing that kept me going and the only thing that would make me smile. Whenever I got upset she would lick my tears away and stay by my side and when I was really unwell, she would scratch and cry at my door or do whatever she could to be with me. She was a constant source of comfort and made me feel so safe and less lonely.
\n\n\nShe would lick away my tears
\n
When nurses would come to visit me at home, they would always comment that Amber was always so close to me but she also instinctively knew when she needed to give me and the nurses space (although she was never too far away). They would often tell me that they’d always say they we’re going to see ‘Ellie and Amber’ because she never left my side. I’d spend months in hospital, and she would come and visit me. Having a cuddle and seeing her happy face was a massive boost. My heart would feel lighter whenever she would visit.
\nWithout Amber I wouldn’t be here today. Last year I had surgery that thankfully gave me a second chance at life. I only got to that point because I wanted so desperately to take her for long walks or play with her in the garden again, she’s mad about tennis balls and loves to play fetch. The idea of giving her a happy life and repaying her for all the years of happiness she gave me when I needed it most kept me going. She still supports me when I have bad days but now I take advantage of every opportunity I can to be with her and do something fun.
\nI honestly don’t think words can really describe just how much I love her and what she means to me, but when I was a little girl I would dream about having a dog like her and I feel so lucky to have her in my life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Amber and Bella","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-amber-bella","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/438959a9341a9d6cd0f83fbd47ddd2ee/f9913/amber-bella-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/438959a9341a9d6cd0f83fbd47ddd2ee/f836f/amber-bella-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/438959a9341a9d6cd0f83fbd47ddd2ee/2244e/amber-bella-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/438959a9341a9d6cd0f83fbd47ddd2ee/f9913/amber-bella-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My two dogs, Amber and Bella, have brought so much happiness to our family. They act as therapy dogs for my little boy who has severe autism. He lives in a world of his own and very rarely lets people in. Our dogs havebrought him laughter, smiles, love and a bond that’s unbreakable. With them around, he’s always giggling and interacting with us. They’ve made our lives complete.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Alfred","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-alfred","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECBQME/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgAB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAH1Ux4npswjyqHJFf/EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAREDEhMg/9oACAEBAAEFAukDZFNyxpL8f//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEg/9oACAEDAQE/AWP/xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8BK//EABoQAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIDEyQZH/2gAIAQEABj8CxfTZTn//xAAbEAADAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARExQRCBkf/aAAgBAQABPyGuUdBDSeDS8GkVE6WRuGyn/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCL1/7/xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABAR/9oACAEDAQE/EAM2/wD/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgMf/aAAgBAgEBPxCB/8QAHRABAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIdExkVHB4f/aAAgBAQABPxAJ0j+5ydjBbtPiG5YNyixG7SCA4RAApC65ivL3P//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d9c3096111ce99b50dd8ed08e19ceb17/f9913/alfred-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d9c3096111ce99b50dd8ed08e19ceb17/f836f/alfred-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d9c3096111ce99b50dd8ed08e19ceb17/2244e/alfred-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d9c3096111ce99b50dd8ed08e19ceb17/f9913/alfred-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our dogs have brought him laughter
\n
Alfred is a Weimararner. He gets really anxious if he is left alone and is a very much-loved part of our family. We have a daughter with autism and Alf is her companion and helper, who always seems to sense and know when he needs to be with her and when she needs him. He is also my husband’s personal trainer, getting him outdoors and exercising.
\n\n\nAlf has some strange habits
\n
Alf has some strange habits – he likes to sleep across the arms of two sofas, or if he’s on the sofa then he sleeps with all four legs in the air! He loves the freedom to run around the Dorset meadows at the end of the lane that we live on and is a happy chap with our two cats and always greets them by licking them.
\nHe is such a handsome boy that people always comment on him when he is out and about. He is playful and has a box of toys, his favourite being Gilbert the sloth! He has a favourite kennel, which is in Turnpike in Motcombe Dorset and all the kennel workers love him! He like to ride in my car in the front seat, especially in the Summer with the top down and the wind blowing in his ears!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Amber","tags":["Class of 19/23","Family","Support Dogs","Adult"],"slug":"meet-amber-julie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b7e4055f9c9155ee7a23b9878054941e/f9913/amber-julie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b7e4055f9c9155ee7a23b9878054941e/f836f/amber-julie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b7e4055f9c9155ee7a23b9878054941e/2244e/amber-julie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b7e4055f9c9155ee7a23b9878054941e/f9913/amber-julie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Amber joined our family in May 2020, just after the first Covid-19 lockdown. She made our Sprocker very happy as we had lost her previous companion in February. She had been a farm dog with two previous owners and she had never had a collar or been walked on a lead, so she was a little barrel on legs!
\n\n\nShe has been a godsend to our family
\n
She soon adapted to our active lifestyle, enjoying Canicross, hiking, canoeing and camping. Although she is not a trained therapy dog, she has been a godsend to our family – always there for a cuddle, looking out for us and keeping us happy all the time.
\nHer favourite things are sleeping in the full washing basket and lying upside down for belly rubs. She also forms the Canicross dream team with my youngest son and they have a magical bond.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-amii-daisy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0977788029f80711df63af939f040785/f9913/daisy2-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0977788029f80711df63af939f040785/f836f/daisy2-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0977788029f80711df63af939f040785/2244e/daisy2-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0977788029f80711df63af939f040785/f9913/daisy2-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy came into my life when I was really struggling. I had lost my dad a few years prior and had only just started grieving properly. Daisy acted as a support dog for me every single day, especially on days where I was heavily contemplating no long being around.
\n\n\nI trust her judgement
\n
She gives me the motivation to get up in the mornings rather than just sleep through the day. Waking up to her, all excited to see me, reminds me that it isn’t all about me, as she needs me.
\nShe’s been a very positive influence when it comes to meeting new people as well, as I feel she has a really good sense of character, and so I trust her judgement. She has been my best friend in the whole world for three years now, and I couldn’t be more grateful to my little girl for showing me that there is more to life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Angus","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-angus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c129ecf372fa2f80cac1f95e1df1af44/f9913/angus-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c129ecf372fa2f80cac1f95e1df1af44/f836f/angus-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c129ecf372fa2f80cac1f95e1df1af44/2244e/angus-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c129ecf372fa2f80cac1f95e1df1af44/f9913/angus-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Angus is our partially deaf Border Collie. We collected him when he was just eight weeks old, and now we couldn’t imagine our lives without him.
\nHe does hear loud noises, which can sometimes startle him, and he responds to his name if you say it clearly enough. Mostly, he follows signs, even though we make a large amount of them up! It’s like we’ve developed our own language for him.
\n\n\nWithout her, my life would be very bleak
\n
Angus is a very clever dog, so he’ll always let us know when he wants something. I think we would all have struggled without him in the last year. He loves long walks in the countryside, which has been great for me. My dog is like my little shadow, and a treasured member of our family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Angus and Will","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-angus-will","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3a421be46e22acdc7691852b0c49b301/f9913/angus-will-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3a421be46e22acdc7691852b0c49b301/f836f/angus-will-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3a421be46e22acdc7691852b0c49b301/2244e/angus-will-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3a421be46e22acdc7691852b0c49b301/f9913/angus-will-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dogs, Angus and Will, are the reason I get up in the morning. They keep me going when things get difficult, make me smile, keep me sane and convince me life is worth living.
\nI am an elderly, arthritic, asthmatic widow without neighbours or family, not unlike many pensioners in this country. However, the difference is having Angus and Will in my life – they are my family.
\n\n\nI am honoured (Will) has transferred his love and loyalty to me
\n
Angus is a laid-back, rehomed springer with a joint problem who shadows me all day (and night). Even when I’m gardening, he has to lie down at my feet, covering up all the weeds. In the spring, his waving tail ‘picks’ daffodils to take into the house.
\nWill is a complex rescued sprollie who had a difficult start in life and desperately wants to be loved. His grin is priceless. He was my husband’s companion, happy to do a bit of gardening or DIY. He stayed with my husband before he died, keeping him company and keeping him warm. Now I am honoured that he has transferred his love and loyalty to me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Annie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-annie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c1b4297dd20e6042d99dcc7fdba63901/f9913/annie-header-one.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c1b4297dd20e6042d99dcc7fdba63901/f836f/annie-header-one.jpg 200w,\n/static/c1b4297dd20e6042d99dcc7fdba63901/2244e/annie-header-one.jpg 400w,\n/static/c1b4297dd20e6042d99dcc7fdba63901/f9913/annie-header-one.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Annie is my beautiful best buddy. She is loyal, cheeky and always right by my side. Annie spends her days with me and my horse, and we pass manyhappy hours exploring the beautiful Scottish countryside together. Of course, Annie loves to steal the horse’s carrots given half a chance!
\n\n\nWe pass many happy hours exploring the Scottish countryside
\n
At night, we retire to the sofa for snuggles, where we’ll usually end up watching her favourite film, the Lion King. I’m so grateful to have her as my best friend.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Anya","tags":["Family","Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-anya","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c8eeb13e0cc4b069278405a47c982ecf/f9913/anya-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c8eeb13e0cc4b069278405a47c982ecf/f836f/anya-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c8eeb13e0cc4b069278405a47c982ecf/2244e/anya-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c8eeb13e0cc4b069278405a47c982ecf/f9913/anya-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Anya is a sensitive, loving and intelligent Golden Cocker Spaniel who has been a part of our lives for five years now. She gives every family member their own special attention, but as my son’s hearing support dog, she’s also his best friend. Every morning she starts her day by jumping on his bed, trying to dig him out from under his duvet!
\nOffering more than just hearing support, Anya also provides him with unconditional love and friendship. She calls him down for dinner by entering his room, nudging him with her wet, black nose and then leading him downstairs. It’s very comforting to know that she’s always there to protect him, especially when he’s asleep at night. If the smoke alarm goes off, for example, she can wake him up and alert him to the danger.
\n\n\nShe’ll be there to protect him
\n
Anya loves her walks and, as a typical Spaniel, she loves to sniff out fox poo! Her favourite human foods are sausages and cheese – if you ever eat them in front of her, she always looks at you with the biggest brown eyes, trying to get you to share them. She also adores playing frisbee, always running after it and bringing it back for us to throw again.
\nShe’s our first dog, and every day we are thankful for the love and support she gives us. Suffering from hearing loss can sometimes mean that people shy away from you, but with Anya around people are actually drawn to us.
\nWhen I look at her asleep on the sofa, I understand why dogs like to sleep a lot – it’s because when they’re awake, they devote all of their energy to looking after their humans.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Archer","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-archer","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4ece81924938a67b2a2cba32872aa072/f9913/archer-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ece81924938a67b2a2cba32872aa072/f836f/archer-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4ece81924938a67b2a2cba32872aa072/2244e/archer-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4ece81924938a67b2a2cba32872aa072/f9913/archer-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We wanted a dog to share our adventures with and to explore new places. We had our heart set on a blue Great Dane, and when we met him as a puppy, we knew he was the one for us. With an arrowhead shaped white patch on his chest, we called him Archer and he’s been a fantastic addition to our furry family.
\n\n\nWe knew he was the one for us
\n
He shares his sofa with his feline brother and sister and shows his gentle side with them. He helped me through a mental breakdown and gave me something to focus on during my recovery. He really is a gentle giant, and always gets showered with attention wherever he goes, putting on the charm and snuffling out snuggles with everyone he meets.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Archie","tags":["Class of 19/23","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-archie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a7267db07d64aa723fc1a0f623b3c73a/f9913/archie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a7267db07d64aa723fc1a0f623b3c73a/f836f/archie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a7267db07d64aa723fc1a0f623b3c73a/2244e/archie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a7267db07d64aa723fc1a0f623b3c73a/f9913/archie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Archie went into the RSPCA at just three months old after his owner had abused and neglected him. He had broken his back leg, which was left to heal naturally, so he now has one leg slightly shorter than the rest, but he’s still a happy boy!
\n\n\nWhen we met him, we fell in love with him instantly
\n
When we met him, we fell in love with him instantly and couldn't wait to bring him home. He’s incredibly intelligent and will run for hours, so he’s a handful but a very fun one at that! We spend a lot of time hiding treats, playing puzzle games and finding new exciting walks for him to run and sniff to his heart’s desire! He’s such a loving dog considering his difficult start in life – he loves people and other dogs. His favourite things in life are his duck toy, his bone, laying out in the sun and exploring new places.
\nWe’re not sure if he’s ever been to the coast and I just know he would love it! Anything new is so exciting for him, so we’d love the opportunity to take him away for a mini break and experience beach walks. Holidays have changed for us and we’re excited to explore more of the UK with Archie in tow instead of travelling abroad.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Archie","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-archie-kathryn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b78a808c8a3d6762f6513dc18dda99e6/f9913/archie-kathryn-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b78a808c8a3d6762f6513dc18dda99e6/f836f/archie-kathryn-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b78a808c8a3d6762f6513dc18dda99e6/2244e/archie-kathryn-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b78a808c8a3d6762f6513dc18dda99e6/f9913/archie-kathryn-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Archie is a goofy, lovable and loyal chocolate Labrador, who loves people and food but hates the hoover and water.
\nIn the first six months, he was an absolute angel and no trouble at all. Then things changed and Archie became the craziest, most belligerent whirlwind ever! We got asked to leave training because his disruptive behaviour was disturbing others, and we even contacted a behaviourist for help.
\n\n\nHe has taught us so much and brings us so much joy
\n
We thought we’d made a dreadful mistake in getting him, but we eventually started to realise it wasn’t just Archie who needed training, we needed it too!
\nGradually with patience, encouragement, praise and love, we have all learnt together and, between us, we have (almost) got there.
\nArchie’s still got his crazy personality at times, but we have the most loving, loyal dog who has taught us so much and brings us so much joy. Lockdown was made easier thanks to him, and we got through it all as a team. He’s even got a new cocker spaniel sister, Bella, who he’s helping us with – but that’s another story!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Archie","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-archie-scott","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/23bc4e0f51e9f9050d7676c900448fdb/f9913/archie-scott-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/23bc4e0f51e9f9050d7676c900448fdb/f836f/archie-scott-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/23bc4e0f51e9f9050d7676c900448fdb/2244e/archie-scott-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/23bc4e0f51e9f9050d7676c900448fdb/f9913/archie-scott-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Last year I retired from my job for medical reasons and was feeling pretty down. Thankfully, Archie the four-year-old Labrador came to the rescue by becoming my companion dog.
\n\n\nArchie brightens up every day
\n
Since we’ve all been spending much more time at home recently, he’s been a godsend to me and brings a smile to my face every day. When I'm lying in bed he’ll come up and lay beside me, and if he can sense I’m feeling down he’ll give me lots of cuddles. He even throws in a few licks as well, just to show how much he loves me. He gets plenty of belly tickles and affection in return, of course!
\nArchie brightens up every day and has improved my quality of life, especially this past year when things have been so different.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Arla","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-arla","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/704ee50cd4964c4e007ae4e11240b7c9/f9913/arla-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/704ee50cd4964c4e007ae4e11240b7c9/f836f/arla-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/704ee50cd4964c4e007ae4e11240b7c9/2244e/arla-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/704ee50cd4964c4e007ae4e11240b7c9/f9913/arla-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Arla is my 11-month-old White Swiss Shepherd and she’s the best reason to get up in the morning. She loves meeting new people and will circle you until it makes you dizzy, just so she can get the good scratches from all sides!
\nAlways up for an adventure, she loves sniffing out new spots, especially if there are muddy puddles involved. Ever since she's joined our family, we've had more exposure to the Great British countryside than ever, in all weather conditions! It's hard to feel the cold when you have a big white fluffy coat like Arla.
\n\n\nShe’s the best reason to get up in the morning
\n
Now it's spring and the lambs are about, she’s made a habit of dragging us to the nearest sheep field on her walks so she can stare at them in awe with her tail wagging, true to her Shepherd ways. Every so often, a lamb will come up to the fence to have a closer look and it truly makes her day.
\nAlthough she has many quirks, her funniest habit is putting herself to bed as soon as you mention training in the house. Arla has a rule that the house is only for play, sleep and strictly no work. All you have to do is ask her to 'sit' or pick up a treat and she's straight in the crate – sometimes she shuts the door after herself too!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Arlo","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-arlo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/14c798f3cf9fdc2498ae6899b2c44c47/f9913/arlo-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/14c798f3cf9fdc2498ae6899b2c44c47/f836f/arlo-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/14c798f3cf9fdc2498ae6899b2c44c47/2244e/arlo-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/14c798f3cf9fdc2498ae6899b2c44c47/f9913/arlo-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Arlo came into my life in October 2019. He's the best little pooch. Before Arlo, I worked in a job that destroyed my mental health, and I had panic attacks most days. When I decided to quit to focus on myself, I thought ‘now would be a good time to get a furry friend'. It was the best decision!
\nArlo has changed my life. He's helped my anxiety levels massively and he gives me purpose. He’s my best friend, my companion, my family and I love him dearly. If I'm sad, he's there, and if I'm happy, he's there. He puts the biggest smile on my face and his tail never stops wagging. He's definitely my soul mate.
\n\n\nIf I'm sad, he's there, and If I'm happy, he's there
\n
I like to think I've helped him to overcome some worries as well. As a young pup he was attacked by another dog which left him very scared and nervous around both dogs and humans. It's been a long process, but he's made so much progress and I'm so proud of him. He's so kind, even after what happened. I sometimes believe that dogs (and animals in general) are too good for this world. But we have each other, and for that I will forever be grateful.
\nArlo’s favourite thing in this world is balls. He will do just about anything for a ball. He loves most toys, in fact. He's a very playful soul and often drops toys in your lap to let you know it's playtime. But nothing beats snuggle time. At any time of the day, Arlo is up for a good cuddle. He lights up the life of anyone who’s lucky enough to know him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Arlo","tags":["Puppy","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-arlo-claire","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6cff3d33a1d418f895e612fedfe9d586/f9913/arlo-claire-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6cff3d33a1d418f895e612fedfe9d586/f836f/arlo-claire-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/6cff3d33a1d418f895e612fedfe9d586/2244e/arlo-claire-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/6cff3d33a1d418f895e612fedfe9d586/f9913/arlo-claire-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Arlo is a beautiful four-month-old pup who was part of a litter of 10. They thought mummy dog had finished after nine, but out popped the runt, Arlo!
\n\n\n\n\nBut out popped the runt, Arlo!
\n
I’m currently training him to be an assistance dog with help and support from our local charity, Ability Dogs 4 Young People.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Arora","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-arora","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4933bb7276caf8221388b85305dc3414/f9913/arora-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4933bb7276caf8221388b85305dc3414/f836f/arora-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4933bb7276caf8221388b85305dc3414/2244e/arora-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4933bb7276caf8221388b85305dc3414/f9913/arora-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My female Greyhound, Arora, is my hero. We've had her for seven months now, and she's such a nervous dog. She’s getting there one step at a time, as my family and I are taking baby steps with her each day. She’s also been my rock. I have health issues, and very bad anxiety and depression too, so she's like my therapy dog. We both support and help each other day by day.
\nI got her from Birmingham RSPCA. As soon as I read her profile story and saw her face in the photos, I instantly cried and shouted out to both my parents: ‘That's my new dog!’. She's such a sweetheart – so loving and very adorable. She doesn't like dogs or cats, but she loves humans.
\n\n\n\n\nWe both support and help each other day by day
\n
I've taught her to pick her blankets up and move them from her bedroom to the living room. Her favourite toy is her teddy called Teddy. She dislikes balls, as she’s not a toy dog, and she's scared of flies for some reason. Sometimes Arora speaks – she can say ‘mom’ and her name! She loves having her photo taken and poses like a model. She hates spiders, and if she sees one, she stamps on it with her foot. She also won’t eat any dog food, so she only eats fresh fish and tinned fish.
\nGetting Arora was the best thing I ever did. She's my first ever dog and the best part of my life by far. She's also a huge part of my family. I haven't got any human children, but Arora is my baby and I love her to bits! She gets everything she wants, and she deserves it as a rescue dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Arthur","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-arthur","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c9c6e8a613f18ae870662003c3726756/f9913/arthur-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c9c6e8a613f18ae870662003c3726756/f836f/arthur-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c9c6e8a613f18ae870662003c3726756/2244e/arthur-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c9c6e8a613f18ae870662003c3726756/f9913/arthur-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Arthur is a very sweet but naughty pup. He came to help me get better following a liver and kidney transplant. He arrived at eight-weeks-old and he has taken over our lives. This huge, fluffy, goofball of a puppy came tumbling through the door and we have loved him since the minute he got here.
\nHe’s totally crackers most of the time as he runs around chasing his own feet and tail. He loves everyone he meets instantly, whether it’s people we meet on walks, neighbours, delivery people, or dogs of every size and breed. He’s always a hit at puppy club as he’s too naughty and chases everyone when he should be sitting or waiting.
\n\n\nHe’s totally crackers most of the time
\n
He doesn’t like to go in his crate to rest because he might miss something, so he sits in protest and refuses to move. This is hilarious as I watch my other half try to persuade, beg, treat and nudge him in there.
\nBest of all, he gets me out of the house every day and I walk him in the countryside, on the Sussex downs, by the local duck pond, and in the fields and farms around our home.
\nMy recovery has really rocketed since Arthur arrived and I can’t wait to show him more places and experiences as he gets older, and I get healthier. My doctors are delighted with my recovery, and we couldn’t be happier with Arthur.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Arthur","tags":["Adult","Family","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-arthur-gordon","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1ef34248e692261db9269bec4e91ee91/f9913/arthur-gordon-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1ef34248e692261db9269bec4e91ee91/f836f/arthur-gordon-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/1ef34248e692261db9269bec4e91ee91/2244e/arthur-gordon-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/1ef34248e692261db9269bec4e91ee91/f9913/arthur-gordon-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Although other people’s dogs didn’t bother me, I never planned to have my own. But my daughter wanted a dachshund, so I agreed to get one after a job change.
\nWhen my wife and daughter brought Arthur home as an eight-week-old pup, they immediately fell in love. With eyes to die for and a charming and bubbly personality, it took me just a few minutes to feel the exact same way about him.
\n\n\n\n\nWe can’t imagine ever being without him
\n
I was shocked at my sudden transformation. From sleeping inside my fleece to joining me on my motorcycle, Arthur came with me everywhere. He even started sleeping with us in bed! And the rest is history.
\nFive years on, Arthur still sleeps in my fleece and is as beautiful and stubborn as ever. We also have five dachshunds now, so he sparked a complete change in our lifestyle – and I love every second of it. We can’t imagine ever being without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Arlo and Pip","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-arlo-pip","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a32e2334d0e0735da21b4828b223e08c/f9913/arlo-pip-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a32e2334d0e0735da21b4828b223e08c/f836f/arlo-pip-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a32e2334d0e0735da21b4828b223e08c/2244e/arlo-pip-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a32e2334d0e0735da21b4828b223e08c/f9913/arlo-pip-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dogs are my world. They come with me everywhere and there is never a moment that we’re apart. We work on a vineyard in Essex – me looking after the vines and the dogs exploring all day. Without my dogs it would be an extremely lonely job. They are my company every day and they never fail to make me laugh.
\n\n\nWithout my dogs it would be an extremely lonely job
\n
Arlo (a Labrador) is six and I have had him since I was 16. He has been my best friend for years now and has been with me through everything, from living with my parents to buying my own home and getting engaged. One day, he’ll be the best man at our wedding. Pip (a working Cocker puppy) is our newest addition at three months old and he’s full of beans.
\nPip loves to run and jump at dandelions, play with insects, chase butterflies and dig holes. Arlo loves sleeping ALL DAY in the sun and chewing sticks when he does get up (sometimes). They are lucky boys and I like to think they are very happy too.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Artie","tags":["Funny","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-artie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8c348e51b1eb65d3ed86aca33ca79b52/f9913/artie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8c348e51b1eb65d3ed86aca33ca79b52/f836f/artie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8c348e51b1eb65d3ed86aca33ca79b52/2244e/artie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8c348e51b1eb65d3ed86aca33ca79b52/f9913/artie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Artie is a rescue Greyhound who is wonderful in every way. My partner and I are both key workers, and our sensitive Artie always offers us endless comfort and support at the end of a long shift.
\n\n\nArtie brings him so much joy
\n
He has also proved to be a very understanding dog and loves to cuddle with my grandad. Despite his young age, Artie always stands by his side, gently snuggling into him and lapping up the attention. My grandad has Alzheimer’s, but Artie brings him so much joy.
\nArtie is an entertaining dog and loves jumping on the spot and skidding onthe floor when he sees you. He is the perfect addition to our family, even though he tries to steal all of our takeaways by grabbing them off the kitchen table! He will always have a place in our hearts.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ashton","tags":["Puppy","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ashton","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6a84e2b4bdd77e1fa17cb66c91cf1ccd/f9913/ashton-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6a84e2b4bdd77e1fa17cb66c91cf1ccd/f836f/ashton-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6a84e2b4bdd77e1fa17cb66c91cf1ccd/2244e/ashton-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6a84e2b4bdd77e1fa17cb66c91cf1ccd/f9913/ashton-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"The day I’m writing this is Ashton’s first birthday. Over the last year, he’s brought pure joy into my life. He’s a playful, happy little dog, who simply won’t allow you to be sad around him.
\nHe likes to sit on top of the sofa cushions like a cat and will go anywhere that’s warm. He loves to be snuggled under blankets and will make his own ‘nest’ out of any soft material he can curl up in.
\nHe has a sister, and he always barks at her until she plays with him – but he isn’t too pleased when she barks back! He also gets major ‘FOMO’, so if there’s even a small chance of something exciting happening, he needs to be there – even if you’re just going to make a cup of tea.
\nMost importantly, he’s helped me stay positive when I’ve struggled to get up in the mornings. Knowing this bundle of joy relies on me and loves me unconditionally has helped me get up on many days when I didn’t even want to move. Ashton is my best friend.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Atlas","tags":["Adorable","Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-atlas","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABQnMzcyhZ9EdYy//EABgQAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECEQAD/9oACAEBAAEFAknJrOFRpyLdHrd6e8/OfSf/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAaEQACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgEQESEx/9oACAECAQE/AVjHTY1f/8QAHRAAAgEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABFxAhAhQTKRsf/aAAgBAQAGPwLiZpUG+x69G5tmzqg//8QAGxABAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARMSFBYVH/2gAIAQEAAT8hK2q/kVIlNs8hZuG3rwMD7s4+RQpsiu1mQ8PuwXoeJ//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQuwfD/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQESH/2gAIAQMBAT8QvYQj/8QAGREAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAECGx/9oACAECAQE/EEIJbO2//8QAHBABAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIUExUWGB/9oACAEBAAE/ECEOYBy6JYiRbGPRutw29PLX2HeIaJVujz2CnSUtsfrqZYQ1WSZuKUNHEJHS+oBa85VYcX7P/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7a4730c9cb9945e2f014b14b9b60401c/f9913/atlas-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7a4730c9cb9945e2f014b14b9b60401c/f836f/atlas-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7a4730c9cb9945e2f014b14b9b60401c/2244e/atlas-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7a4730c9cb9945e2f014b14b9b60401c/f9913/atlas-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe simply won’t allow you to be sad around him
\n
At the start of 2021 I was really anxious. I was working from a friend’s house and saw the advert for him. I called and he had already gone. He was advertised to a good home because Atlas is a deaf Dalmatian.
\nI had a call nearly a week later to say he was still available and to come and get him. I didn’t tell my now boyfriend and we drove for an hour to get him. I had moved back to my parents and didn’t tell them either.
\n\n\nWe couldn’t be without him now
\n
Since getting Atlas I’ve not been anxious. I’m so happy and feel so positive and I know he needs my love, time and patience. He’s very loving and clever and adores my nieces. My family love him and we couldn’t be without him now.
\nWe have nicknamed him The Pickle! I don’t even know where we got the name from. He is also a great companion to my dad, who just had a cateract operation and is undergoing cancer testing, and keeps him amused. He really is the dog we never thought we’d need.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Austin","tags":["Adult","Small","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-austin","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e5b1fd31a10bcc2b3504410d4ebea9f6/f9913/austin-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e5b1fd31a10bcc2b3504410d4ebea9f6/f836f/austin-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e5b1fd31a10bcc2b3504410d4ebea9f6/2244e/austin-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e5b1fd31a10bcc2b3504410d4ebea9f6/f9913/austin-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Austin came into our lives two years after I lost my heart dog, Freedom, to heart failure. I was apprehensive about getting another dog, but the house felt empty without one. So, we decided to change breed to a Lhasa Apso and found a wonderful breeder.
\nAustin was a lockdown puppy, so we struggled to socialise him. But we tried to get out to as many car boots as possible. As a result, he now knows what ‘car boot’ means and often sits behind the car on Saturday mornings barking to go out!
\n\n\nHe may be tiny, but he’s made a huge impression on us!
\n
He loves people. If someone is following us up the road on his walk, he has to stop and wait for them to say hi. His favourite people are children and elderly women – preferably on mobility scooters! The sound of the motor gets him really excited, and he likes to sit on their step.
\nHe is such a character and will definitely tell you when he’s not happy about something. But all he wants to do is play, cuddle and meet his adoring public. He also loves camping in our trailer tent, where he’ll sit outside for hours watching the world go by and trying to attract people over for fusses.
\nHis best friends in the whole world are our pair of guinea pigs, Mousse and Hamilton. He likes sharing their grass biscuits, getting in their cage and napping with them. He may be tiny, but Austin has made a huge impression on us!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bailey","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bailey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9a11112e2dab35d2a698d5446a5047a7/f9913/bailey-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a11112e2dab35d2a698d5446a5047a7/f836f/bailey-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9a11112e2dab35d2a698d5446a5047a7/2244e/bailey-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9a11112e2dab35d2a698d5446a5047a7/f9913/bailey-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bailey is the most amazing little best friend. He is a very cheeky chap and very quirky indeed. He has the craziest fun personality.
\n\n\nHe has defied the odds and been a little hero
\n
He has a heart murmur, has had 18 teeth pulled in one op and only last year decided to swallow a fisherman's hook, bait and line. But he has defied all odds and been the little hero throughout. He is also very talented and has a party piece of ringing the service bell for a treat. He makes us laugh, makes us smile but most of all he is full of endless love.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bailey","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bailey-amy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fa72f01e9cc275832a03b8a986a75df1/f9913/bailey-amy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fa72f01e9cc275832a03b8a986a75df1/f836f/bailey-amy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fa72f01e9cc275832a03b8a986a75df1/2244e/bailey-amy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fa72f01e9cc275832a03b8a986a75df1/f9913/bailey-amy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bailey is amazing. I have severe mental health issues and last year I underwent some treatment at a hospital. Although this meant Bailey and I had to spend a prolonged period of time apart, he came to visit me regularly. Whenever he came, he’d bounce around and brighten not only my day, but all of my fellow patients’ too.
\n\n\nHe came to visit me all the time
\n
When at home, Bailey and I walk for miles, which really helps improve my mental health. He always greets everyone we meet with a huge smile and a waggy tail, and they fall head over heels for him. If I’m going through a low episode, Bailey cuddles me close to let me know he’s there.
\nSince being out of hospital, my mobility has been limited but Bailey is still just as attentive. He’s so loving, and truly is the best friend anyone could wish for.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bailey","tags":["Puppy","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bailey-chloe","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/445d1d69e014106607c91fd91e72a438/9a128/bailey-chloe-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/445d1d69e014106607c91fd91e72a438/f836f/bailey-chloe-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/445d1d69e014106607c91fd91e72a438/2244e/bailey-chloe-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/445d1d69e014106607c91fd91e72a438/9a128/bailey-chloe-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"I met Bailey in the local pub when she was brought in by her previous owner. She was a five-month-old purebred Labrador, but she looked about 12 weeks old. She was skin and bone and she looked exhausted. I offered her some chips from my plate and a drink of my water, but her owner told me not to feed her. He said she’d had her weekly feed as she poops in the house otherwise.
\n\n\nShe has made me a dog person
\n
Bailey kept coming back to me while we were in the pub. I think she saw me as her safety net. The owner kept grabbing her by her scruff and dragging her back to him, but she kept wanting to cuddle up to me.
\nI offered to buy her from him as he had mentioned he works 12-hour days and leaves her all day. I bought her then and there, and she came home with me that evening. She’s been mine ever since and she’s made mine and my partner’s lives wonderful.
\nShe’s got such a wicked personality in comparison to the exhausted, malnourished puppy we met in the pub. She’s insanely clever and LOVES eating squares of cheese! She has made me a dog person and I would never be without her. I’m so thankful I went for a drink that night.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bailey","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bailey-nikki","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d98fc37999f5fa1f540faffd4403eb9f/f9913/bailey-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d98fc37999f5fa1f540faffd4403eb9f/f836f/bailey-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d98fc37999f5fa1f540faffd4403eb9f/2244e/bailey-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d98fc37999f5fa1f540faffd4403eb9f/f9913/bailey-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"As a puppy, Bailey taught himself how to open doors. Everywhere he went, be it the groomers, doggie day care or the vet, we had to remind them to lock the doors so he couldn’t escape. On one occasion, he had to go to the vets for an X-ray and, as they didn’t have a crate big enough for him, he was put in a consulting room to recover from the sedative. When he felt well enough to realise he had been left alone, he attempted to open the door and let himself out, but inadvertently caught the snib lock with this paw and locked himself in. The vet had to call the locksmith to come and release him!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ayda","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ayda","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/69ee6c0e0066fbbbe8d1cfdfc2497a50/f9913/ayda-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/69ee6c0e0066fbbbe8d1cfdfc2497a50/f836f/ayda-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/69ee6c0e0066fbbbe8d1cfdfc2497a50/2244e/ayda-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/69ee6c0e0066fbbbe8d1cfdfc2497a50/f9913/ayda-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Locked himself in
\n
Ayda is an ex-racing Greyhound. During the first COVID lockdown, when there was no Greyhound racing, her trainer put her up for adoption with a local rescue. From the minute I saw her, I knew she was coming home with us.
\n\n\n\n\nFrom the minute I saw her, I knew she was coming home with us
\n
She’s the most gentle dog. I take her to the care home where I work, and everyone loves her. I also volunteer for the small rescue who rehomed her. We stand outside supermarkets raising much-needed funds for them.
\nAyda loves people and she’ll draw you in with her eyes, then she’ll lean on you with all her weight. Recently I broke my ankle, and I don't know how I would have coped without her. During the day, she was my only company – and a good listener, too. She means the world to me. She's my best friend and a truly amazing dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bailey","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-bailey-paul","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d8dbec8731b7ff3e07c96607249a625b/f9913/bailey-paul-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d8dbec8731b7ff3e07c96607249a625b/f836f/bailey-paul-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/d8dbec8731b7ff3e07c96607249a625b/2244e/bailey-paul-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/d8dbec8731b7ff3e07c96607249a625b/f9913/bailey-paul-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Master Bailey is such a delightful part of our small family. He’s a Patterdale/Jack Russell mix, or Patterjack for short. He can be extremely lazy when he wants to be, and loves to play with his chews but will not have anything to do with a ball. He used to have a favourite soft toy that he took everywhere with him when he was younger. It was just a little too big for him, but he still loved it.
\nBailey loves his sleep – he would sleep for 14 hours a day if you didn't persuade him to get up. He loves to walk but rarely runs unless there's a chew thrown or another dog comes trotting by, especially if it’s a female. He's a bit of a ladies’ dog. He's also very observant and can be loud when he wants to be, particularly when it comes to strangers.
\n\n\n\n\nI love him with all my heart, and he knows it
\n
Bailey had a harsh upbringing. The people who owned him didn't respect him and confined him to a cat carrier, instead of a crate. He didn't have any room to turn around and they said he was uncontrollable, which is why they kept him in very crammed conditions.
\nHe was abused and taken up the yard and blasted with a water hose. Now, he hates violence and barks uncontrollably for it to stop, as he saw a lot of it before he came to us. But he's very loyal to me and his dad. I love him with all my heart, and he knows it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Barna","tags":["Support","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-barna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMCBAH/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADAQL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAYc9p5TvSU8+Bpoan//EABoQAAIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECABESIkP/2gAIAQEAAQUCdtNo0jgIb360sEA7n//EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIgIf/aAAgBAwEBPwEYn//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEf/aAAgBAgEBPwHSn//EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABECERIjGR/9oACAEBAAY/Ak0x7izZQqOR7H//xAAcEAEAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFhgcH/2gAIAQEAAT8hRIG81qYBVsNLOt3EqDBwQyzTqdBnyQFvIKeE/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCwMP3/xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABAR/9oACAEDAQE/EAGliF//xAAZEQABBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARITH/2gAIAQIBAT8QsSphv//EAB0QAQADAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQVFxweH/2gAIAQEAAT8QPeqG2M/YmkveLnph7bCR9YvcEpkNQhcjtlV5JjWLvI6tOXSMQwCeaijynsn/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a04a6f8264bf94a63ac209096a9133fe/f9913/barna-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a04a6f8264bf94a63ac209096a9133fe/f836f/barna-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a04a6f8264bf94a63ac209096a9133fe/2244e/barna-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a04a6f8264bf94a63ac209096a9133fe/f9913/barna-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Nearly three years ago, we brought Barna, a Hungarian Vizsla puppy, into our lives to be a loving pet and companion, yet he has proven to be so much more than that. I live with a serious and complex neurological condition that causes me to collapse regularly. I myself have no awareness of these onsets, and would often be injured or be admitted into hospital, but all that changed when Barna was six months old.
\n\n\nChanged my life for the better
\n
We discovered that Barna could detect the minute changes in the pheromones my body released in the lead-up to a collapse. He would ‘alert’ me via a series of behaviours, including intense staring, refusal to do as asked and a single bark. These are my five-minute warnings, which gives me a chance to make myself safe. Realising Barna’s potential to detect an oncoming episode, we contacted the charity Medical Detection Dogs.
\nNearly a year and a half later, we were given the amazing news that Barna is now a fully accredited Medical Alert Assistance dog. As a family, we can’t put into words how much both the charity and Barna have changed my life for the better. He is the first Hungarian Vizsla to be accredited as a medical alert assistance dog (as far as the charity is aware) in the UK, so he is flying the flag for all other breeds that may not be conventionally thought of as great assistance dogs.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bandit","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-bandit","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAv/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABqz7MvGrUCtiMHsJ//8QAGhAAAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxEhMv/aAAgBAQABBQIy3ZVY7I3ZaS0HA3pFUuyDf//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEg/9oACAEDAQE/AWP/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIP/aAAgBAgEBPwEj/8QAHBAAAQUAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECEBEhMUFh/9oACAEBAAY/AjHCWei8ZDSq7j//xAAbEAEAAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMXFBof/aAAgBAQABPyG45ehEVa6za75Gq3T2YK3FQyJbQE0K3BaNX+DB4T//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEBwvg//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABMRD/2gAIAQMBAT8QgTHM/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQITH/2gAIAQIBAT8Q2NWKP//EAB0QAQEAAQUBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExQWFxUcH/2gAIAQEAAT8QgHgNZjOJ/GP4MrWTQDZ9e8Tem4Fl146MQtNEHbjb3jCKHsdMmQFovMcQVbpOEB5cjgglz//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1c8a94754f1deb26d3bc3573b5f3b6a7/f9913/bandit-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1c8a94754f1deb26d3bc3573b5f3b6a7/f836f/bandit-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1c8a94754f1deb26d3bc3573b5f3b6a7/2244e/bandit-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1c8a94754f1deb26d3bc3573b5f3b6a7/f9913/bandit-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We'd been looking for a rescue dog for a while, but were having no luck. We eventually found Bandit through a site linked with dogs in Romania and Serbia.
\nBandit was due to come to us at the end of the month. We hadn’t told our children yet, so it would be a surprise for them – though our youngest son was still afraid of cats at this point, so we were a little apprehensive at how it would all work out!
\n\n\nBandit has really helped him to come out of his shell
\n
Fast forward to a few months later, and they are the best of friends. They spend lots of time together, snuggling and playing. Bandit has really helped my son to come out of his shell.
\nBandit is a great asset to our family in more ways than one and has definitely brought us closer together with all the walks we now take, though it would be nice if he stopped chewing threw his leads – I think we’re onto number 16 now!
\nHe loves everyone and everything and is so happy to play with the other dogs in the park. He even adores our cat, but the feeling isn't mutual!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Barney","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-barney","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5eb5ae0010393bb936d788c10f19c108/f9913/barney-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5eb5ae0010393bb936d788c10f19c108/f836f/barney-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5eb5ae0010393bb936d788c10f19c108/2244e/barney-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5eb5ae0010393bb936d788c10f19c108/f9913/barney-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Cavapoo Barney is such a huge part of my life. During all the lockdown periods, he has always been the one who cheers me up, makes me laugh and most importantly, doesn't judge me for my questionable fashion choices!
\nHe is a very sensitive dog and reacts to my moods, especially if I’m feeling down. When he can sense that I’m upset, he’ll comfort me by cuddling up for a snuggle.
\n\n\nHe can sense that I’m upset
\n
Barney is very cute, but he knows it, and so he’s always trying to wrangle an extra treat or two. This would be fine if it was just from me, but he has been known to creep up behind strangers in the park because he can smell treats in their pockets. We try to be strict with him, but we’re yet to succeed with that.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Barney Bear","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-barney-bear","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/eb302e23f044df4420fa771d2b5a904f/f9913/barney-bear-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/eb302e23f044df4420fa771d2b5a904f/f836f/barney-bear-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/eb302e23f044df4420fa771d2b5a904f/2244e/barney-bear-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/eb302e23f044df4420fa771d2b5a904f/f9913/barney-bear-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When my dad passed away in 2020, I thought I’d never smile again – he passed away from Covid and I couldn’t say goodbye to him.
\nShortly after, we decided to get a puppy. My dad was a shepherd, and his Border Collie was called Barney, so I decided to call him Barney to keep Dad’s memory alive. This name soon became ‘Barney Bear’.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s my best friend and I smile every time I see his cute face!
\n
Barney-Bear is a Shorkie, and to say he changed my life would be an understatement. He mended my broken heart and taught me how to smile again.
\nAfter being my dad’s full-time carer, I’ve found purpose in my life again. I’ve also taught Barney-Bear how to do lots of fun tricks. My personal favourite is his silent bark (he’ll bark silently on command if he gets a treat). He’s my best friend and I smile every time I see his cute face!
\nHe saved me from a very dark place, and I love him dearly for it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Barney","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23","Adult"],"slug":"meet-barney-demelza","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/707ac908a858c7671206af2d714928cc/9a128/barney-demelza-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/707ac908a858c7671206af2d714928cc/f836f/barney-demelza-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/707ac908a858c7671206af2d714928cc/2244e/barney-demelza-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/707ac908a858c7671206af2d714928cc/9a128/barney-demelza-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Barney is my best friend and brings me joy every single day. I love our daily walks, and since having children, they’ve become even more valuable. Not only does it get us all out enjoying the fresh air, but walking Barney helps me to escape from everything and simply be in the moment.
\nI always enjoy watching him when he goes swimming (he snorts like a pig while paddling), and when he’s hunting for sticks it’s as though he’s having the time of his life.
\n\n\nAs though he’s having the time of his life
\n
After each swim, I put Barney in the car, so he warms up, and I dry his ears. He goes into a happy trance, then it’s a treat and home. He’s such a loyal companion and always joins my son and I for nap time – they even sleep side by side!
\nBarney was my best dog at my wedding, and I take him everywhere he’s allowed, including shops and restaurants. I honestly can’t imagine life without Barney, he is always here for me, and his daily antics never fail to make me laugh.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Basil","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-basil","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2aacea0f39385818fb2f36aa79d39bc8/f9913/basil-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2aacea0f39385818fb2f36aa79d39bc8/f836f/basil-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2aacea0f39385818fb2f36aa79d39bc8/2244e/basil-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2aacea0f39385818fb2f36aa79d39bc8/f9913/basil-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I had been thinking about fostering a dog for some time and thought that a rescue was the way to go, as the rescue centres were absolutely full to the hilt with dogs in need of loving homes. At the time, l was suffering from depression and thought looking after a dog would be a motivation to get up in the mornings.
\nI saw on social media that there was a puppy in Bosnia that a rescue centre was looking to bring to the UK, and l made an application to foster him. I was successful and Basil came into my life on 24 March 2022, aged just eight months old.
\n\n\nI've never regretted adopting him, even if none of my slippers, socks and shoes are safe!
\n
At first, it was difficult – he was scared of every household appliance, he didn't want to be indoors (day or night), he would not sleep at all, and he didn't know how to play. However, after a couple of weeks, he settled down and his friendly, cheeky, mischievous and inquisitive side began to shine through.
\nAfter fostering Basil for a month, l decided to adopt him – how could I ever let this beautiful soul go? I've never regretted my decision, even if none of my slippers, socks and shoes are safe from him! He is addicted to tummy tickles and loves to boop me on the nose to tell me he loves me.
\nPoor Basil has just had a double operation, so he is slowly recovering and getting lots of rest, TLC and treats (it is costing me a fortune in chicken). We are planning lots of long walks and maybe a trip to the seaside when he is well enough to travel. There are so many adventures to look forward to, and we will no doubt enjoy them together.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bea","tags":["Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bea","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCBf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABkojtxu1zySUBsL//xAAbEAACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgARAxITMf/aAAgBAQABBQLqaD2BQGPXbEQi08uDwsVn/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASD/2gAIAQMBAT8BY//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQIBAT8BH//EAB0QAAIBBAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhARIjEhcaH/2gAIAQEABj8CxFRyerDjvI4k0ejXRZM//8QAHhABAAICAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWFxobH/2gAIAQEAAT8hCpsRCjbzZECUE2VZMwEjZ6mLCeYKk61AFmRV9jeh3n//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEIzIQf/EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBFB/9oACAEDAQE/EGWFT//EABcRAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8QAuzn/8QAHxABAQACAQQDAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBYZGxUYGh/9oACAEBAAE/EFaIULNd/eIQijhYwb33rs4BsqXKdhE3boPL+Y1QMWCAKC86HzhEFOh7fLkTgUIRpx7wwqbebplHkgnJPvP/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b1b798ad70ba0cb2967303094d6bf25e/f9913/bea-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b1b798ad70ba0cb2967303094d6bf25e/f836f/bea-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b1b798ad70ba0cb2967303094d6bf25e/2244e/bea-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b1b798ad70ba0cb2967303094d6bf25e/f9913/bea-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Me and my best friend Bea have supported, and in some ways saved, each other in the four years since we met at a local rehoming centre. Bea came to me after being picked up on a motorway, having been hit by a vehicle. After six months of rehabilitation, which saw her learn to use her leg again after losing around 4cm of bone, she was on the road to recovery.
\n\n\nBea gave me purpose to continue
\n
It was during this time that a life-changing event happened in my life – one that brought me great loss and grieving. If it wasn’t for the love of my girl Bea, I would have struggled to carry on, but to know that she was there and needed my help, gave me purpose to continue. I saved her, so in turn she saved me. I couldn’t ask for a more loyal and loving companion.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bea","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bea-mandy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a9ca5e14929786d2afb12ed9ec5a4579/f9913/bea-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a9ca5e14929786d2afb12ed9ec5a4579/f836f/bea-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a9ca5e14929786d2afb12ed9ec5a4579/2244e/bea-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a9ca5e14929786d2afb12ed9ec5a4579/f9913/bea-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bea is my best friend. We go practically everywhere together and are quite well known in my neighbourhood. Her favourite things are food, affection, her cuddly bumble bee toy and riding in the back of my vintage American ‘Woody’ truck.
\n\n\nShe’s a diva with the sweetest heart
\n
Bea also loves the camera and has appeared in a couple of UK TV commercials – she thrives on the attention! She’s a diva with the sweetestheart and we are truly inseparable.
\nHaving travelled extensively together, Bea is a total globetrotter, but we have now been happily settled in London for the past eight years. Here’s to many more years of love and fun with my best buddy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bear","tags":["Funny","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bear-katie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/45345fd7f888f411496b495415e476b7/9a128/bear-katie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/45345fd7f888f411496b495415e476b7/f836f/bear-katie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/45345fd7f888f411496b495415e476b7/2244e/bear-katie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/45345fd7f888f411496b495415e476b7/9a128/bear-katie-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"I'll start by saying I didn't really want a dog. My husband had wanted one for so long, however I felt that it was an extra responsibility and commitment that we didn't really need – but then I met Bear.
\n\n\nHe’s lifted me up when I’ve felt sad
\n
Bear is my best friend. He's lifted me up when I’ve felt sad, helped me cope with stress and brought even more joy to my life during the happiest times – like on holiday, where he adapted naturally to life as the resident camp pooch.
\nWe're incredibly close to the owners of his sister Dolly, and our two dogs share an incredible amount of traits. They're both inseparable, bonkers and completely ball mad!
\nOne of Bear’s funniest traits is the way he bounces for his breakfast. It's like he gets so excited to eat that he starts dancing – a breakfast boogie, so to speak. Bear really is the most wonderful dog and the best friend a girl could wish for!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bear","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bear","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e871e02cacc5ed9420108f24c22c1a36/f9913/bear-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e871e02cacc5ed9420108f24c22c1a36/f836f/bear-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e871e02cacc5ed9420108f24c22c1a36/2244e/bear-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e871e02cacc5ed9420108f24c22c1a36/f9913/bear-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bear is our chocolate Labrador, who is such a joy! He has been by my sidea lot this past year and lay quietly with me the whole time I was ill.
\nHe’s a very active dog and is always chasing a ball around. One of his favourite games is to go upstairs and drop his ball, then run back down to chase it. Bear has so many funny quirks, like the way he barks at any animal on the television.
\n\n\nIt’s a great adventure for him
\n
His favourite place is our local countryside park. It’s a great adventure for him as he loves to jump into the water. Bear can’t even go past a big puddle without splashing around in it. His latest hilarious habit is pawing at his water bowl until it spills, then lying on the wet floor!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Baxter","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-baxter","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAwX/xAAXAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgMB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGa64YnpsyhkkUDF//EABoQAAIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAAMSERD/2gAIAQEAAQUCJlY2xSt4/OLZmLcKgWOfP//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABARAf/aAAgBAwEBPwGQ0//EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAECH/2gAIAQIBAT8BCZf/xAAcEAACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIRITEQEmH/2gAIAQEABj8CKLhrwcUqwPGzrFWLPP8A/8QAGxAAAwACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIUExUWH/2gAIAQEAAT8h9TKspZY1k9OhhFFJ9kNs9CRscu7PLjkh/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDMyEP/xAAYEQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASEQEf/aAAgBAwEBPxB9qTDP/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQIf/aAAgBAgEBPxDa2f/EAB0QAQACAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQVGRcYH/2gAIAQEAAT8QtboH3HkwCioHKHE74ZVbG5YowCFctuf2DaQGGxHvqlhsmlwhW6rib2RJXdZL9lCL5IGp/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/db99ef311e40a99e43a5ec8adb2d9066/f9913/baxter-jenny-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/db99ef311e40a99e43a5ec8adb2d9066/f836f/baxter-jenny-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/db99ef311e40a99e43a5ec8adb2d9066/2244e/baxter-jenny-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/db99ef311e40a99e43a5ec8adb2d9066/f9913/baxter-jenny-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Baxter from a rescue around six or seven years ago when he was two years old. He was found abandoned! He is now about nine and he has helped me through bouts of depression which I get from time to time. He knows when I am struggling mentally and doesn't leave my side.
\n\n\nThe pure, unconditional love I feel from his cuddles is so healing
\n
The pure, unconditional love I feel from his cuddles is so healing. He is brilliant with the children, and we adore his huge tongue that constantly sticks out of his mouth like a piece of ham! Baxter snores like a tractor, but he still sleeps in our room like a king. He loves his walks and meeting new people – he’s so loving.
\nBaxter, along with my other dog Lola, have inspired me to bite the bullet and start my new dog walking business, which also benefits my mental health hugely. This has led me to researching dog behaviour, body language and lots more to give my dogs the best possible life, as a thank you for what they do for me every day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bear","tags":["Adult","Funny","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-bear-trupti","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/51b5094e613d6da5e845b5a63c26dd08/f9913/bear-trupti-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/51b5094e613d6da5e845b5a63c26dd08/f836f/bear-trupti-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/51b5094e613d6da5e845b5a63c26dd08/2244e/bear-trupti-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/51b5094e613d6da5e845b5a63c26dd08/f9913/bear-trupti-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bear was adopted in 2020 and became my ray of hope during the pandemic.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s my inspiration
\n
He’s my inspiration for finding joy in the little things in life, too. For example, he loves rolling in freshly cut grass, jumping in puddles, running into the waves, soaking up the sun, digging holes and burying his favourite toys before forgetting about them.
\nHe’s given me new meaning to the phrase ‘there’s nothing like the present’.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Beau","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-beau","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/022f732e57da18bffd6d1f001ac25503/f9913/beau-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/022f732e57da18bffd6d1f001ac25503/f836f/beau-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/022f732e57da18bffd6d1f001ac25503/2244e/beau-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/022f732e57da18bffd6d1f001ac25503/f9913/beau-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Beau is a wonderful family dog. He’s everybody’s friend, and I’m always getting requests from my neighbours to see if he wants to join them and their dogs for a walk.
\n\n\nBeau loves being at home
\n
He provides us with endless laughter, especially when he gets given a treat and starts jumping around like a little puppy. Every evening, after hislast walk, he likes to enjoy a tummy rub or two. Beau loves being at home and is very protective of our house, though he’s great at sharing the garden with the birds, squirrels and hedgehogs. Our dog is a treasured member of our family, and we wouldn’t be without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bella","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2a65d945ac5fac024097374a5a3bb4f0/f9913/bella-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2a65d945ac5fac024097374a5a3bb4f0/f836f/bella-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2a65d945ac5fac024097374a5a3bb4f0/2244e/bella-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2a65d945ac5fac024097374a5a3bb4f0/f9913/bella-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bella is an amazing girl. I waited almost three years for her from her breeder, and it was a bittersweet moment that the day we were to pick her up was the day our old horse died unexpectedly.
\n\n\nShe's a real family friend
\n
She gave us something to focus on. She's a real family friend and is gentle and adored by our grandchildren, who have one of her puppies, now 5. Bella has accompanied my husband to work in a psychiatric rehabilitation unit, and has proven that a non-judgemental smiling Goldie is the best medicine.
\nShe loves visitors, but she is a great watch dog, loving nothing better than to sit on the chair by the window and watch the world go by. Like a lot of Goldies, she mumbles and mutters, saving that method of communication for her human friends. She has been a fantastic foundation bitch for me, although now retired (she had two litters) her children and grandchildren share her amazing temperament.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bear","tags":["Adorable","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bear-lisa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d5e7d902b5835ea8de0f20bee7662434/f9913/bear-lisa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d5e7d902b5835ea8de0f20bee7662434/f836f/bear-lisa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d5e7d902b5835ea8de0f20bee7662434/2244e/bear-lisa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d5e7d902b5835ea8de0f20bee7662434/f9913/bear-lisa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When we got Bear, I was in a tough place. I was unemployed and coming out of a long period of depression, but he brought joy into my life. He gave me a reason to get up in the morning and structure to my day. His eagerness to learn and his excitement at doing new things is just brilliant.
\n\n\nIt was love at first sight
\n
When you see him in the morning or after coming home, he'll grab his favourite toy to show you and have a cuddle. The way he looks at me, it’s like he’s really trying to understand what I'm saying – it’s so adorable!
\nBear may be my pet, but really, he’s my buddy and best friend.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella Bear","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bella-bear","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5f2652bd3394ba45ce658277f5ce9af7/f9913/bella-bear-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5f2652bd3394ba45ce658277f5ce9af7/f836f/bella-bear-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5f2652bd3394ba45ce658277f5ce9af7/2244e/bella-bear-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5f2652bd3394ba45ce658277f5ce9af7/f9913/bella-bear-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescue female Miniature Schnauzer dogs from puppy farms. Over the past 20 years, we’ve rescued 16 – each with their own set of fears, neuroses, strange habits and physical problems after years in the most dreadful environments.
\nTwo years ago, we suddenly lost a very young rescue who had a heart murmur. I looked online and saw that there was a nine-month-old Miniature Schnauzer in a rescue in Wales. On the hottest day of the year, we travelled 300 miles to get her and 300 miles to bring her home. Since that day she has delighted us with her youth, her love for everyone and her exuberance for life.
\n\n\nShe is a true joy
\n
She is always happy. She insists on cuddling and playing with the four much older dogs we have and they seem to forget their traumas and woes when they’re around her. She patrols the garden endlessly to ensure no pigeon, jackdaw, or rook lands. But she’ll give robins and blackbirds safe access. She insists on taking out a soft toy every time she goes into the garden. But she always leaves them there. She greets us with squeals of delight even if we’ve only been gone for five minutes. She sleeps between us on her own pillow, never moving, but pressing against my back as though to say ‘I’ve got you’. Everyone loves Bella Bear. Although we don’t seek a reward for rescuing these dogs, I believe she is our reward for looking after all our ‘damaged’ girls over the years. She is a true joy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella","tags":["Support Dogs","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bella-debbie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEDBAL/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAblpyZ32IPUCg//EABoQAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAhIQITH/2gAIAQEAAQUCJTriXK7YhCP/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAYEAACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAhUf/aAAgBAQAGPwI13H//xAAaEAEAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEQIUFR/9oACAEBAAE/IagUCsFtXku8IQg5AW6w/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDrzwD/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/EB//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/EB//xAAdEAEAAwACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRYYGh/9oACAEBAAE/EEd38YxZFpL2oD4D1ESw2qJLbV7yxQA/YUILY3IU9SlvM//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/24d10b71bbf2050f63b9a1a4d584df95/f9913/bella-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/24d10b71bbf2050f63b9a1a4d584df95/f836f/bella-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/24d10b71bbf2050f63b9a1a4d584df95/2244e/bella-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/24d10b71bbf2050f63b9a1a4d584df95/f9913/bella-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bella is a seven-year-old Corgi crossed with a Sheltie. I have Borderline Personality Disorder, which means my moods can change at any given time. Bella senses when I am very low and will jump up and put her paw on my arm to comfort me.
\n\n\nPut her paw on my arm to comfort me
\n
As my Emotional Support Dog, Bella goes everywhere with me and even helps me in the shops. She’s really smart – she always knows when it is time for breakfast, and will come out of the bedroom and head to her foodmat in preparation.
\nShe loves going out in the car and also enjoys her walks, especially in the long grass. Bella is very good with wild animals and won't ever chase\nthem. Her favourite place is the beach, as she likes to feel the sand between her paws. I have so much love for her, and I know she loves me too. I simply can't imagine life without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella","tags":["Senior","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-bella-diane","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBAgMF/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGia7yctzcmeINYn//EABoQAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAwAREyH/2gAIAQEAAQUCKDSZiVqOH5gvpQRXlDwzUCm//8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAR/9oACAEDAQE/ASP/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAbEAABBQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIRITEQYf/aAAgBAQAGPwKYwVzsQvm2WkjfRfE5/8QAGxABAAIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFRQYH/2gAIAQEAAT8hJRpvMyBLur+TluRq15BCuVTVL6x63iohBnBEt2z/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAELwfvP/EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEEFx/9oACAEDAQE/EGYKj//EABoRAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBFBUWH/2gAIAQIBAT8QXS3szH//xAAdEAEAAgIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRYYHw/9oACAEBAAE/EK6LNTikf3kKZBDEg0cpXVMtilPTiUkq+juM4AXJrNuIAHctGH1ciXgxqVBPgW1LBoXdM//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6cb934865ab28c25f58c58b1a94f4543/f9913/bella-diane-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6cb934865ab28c25f58c58b1a94f4543/f836f/bella-diane-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6cb934865ab28c25f58c58b1a94f4543/2244e/bella-diane-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6cb934865ab28c25f58c58b1a94f4543/f9913/bella-diane-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bella the beagle is a happy soul,\neating and sleeping is her main goal.
\nFrom first thing in the morning to last thing at night,\nher beautiful nature is a wonderful sight.
\n\n\n\n\nOur love knows no end
\n
If you’re down or sad she’ll be right there,\nshowing you that she’s full of care.
\nDon’t be fooled by the innocent face,\nshe can scoff chicken meat at a rapid pace.
\nA perfect pet, our wonderful friend,\nOur love for Bella knows no end.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Senior","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bella-grace","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/732261a9598ded50855127ee47344974/f9913/bella-grace-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/732261a9598ded50855127ee47344974/f836f/bella-grace-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/732261a9598ded50855127ee47344974/2244e/bella-grace-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/732261a9598ded50855127ee47344974/f9913/bella-grace-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Bella in January 2020, and she has been the best companion. She’s a rescue dog from Battersea so has come with a few challenges – luckily, she will do anything for a treat! Since we adopted Bella, she’s had a couple of health scares, including a bout of chest cancer and her cruciate went too. We aren’t sure how she managed to hurt her cruciate, considering she spends a lot of her time under a mountain of blankets on the sofa...
\n\n\nShe’s added so much to our adventures
\n
Luckily, she has bounced back from all of this to join us in our campervan for a tour of Europe. We’ve been away since April touring the continent, from Amsterdam to Bulgaria. Bella has mastered lots of modes of transport too. She’s been in cable cars, a blow-up kayak and a doggie rucksack when we’re on our bikes. She even joined us at the top of Jungfraujoch, which is the highest train station in Europe.
\nBella has been such an angel the entire time and has added so much to our adventures. We even have personalised bandanas for each country so that we can keep track of where she has been! We couldn’t imagine a better dog to have in the van.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella","tags":["Senior","Small","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bella-kelly","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBBQL/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADAgH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAZNu064btLyX0ClASP/EABwQAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhEDBBIhIv/aAAgBAQABBQLFrpxlqpHAi+vVUKTZdDZ//8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQAQ/9oACAEDAQE/ASN//8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABARQf/aAAgBAgEBPwGlNX//xAAcEAABBAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAhMQISIjL/2gAIAQEABj8C7taIyksj0JWzK/8A/8QAHBAAAwACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERMUEhUXHx/9oACAEBAAE/IUumm4aKlHFiG/wSvjpcFordViEX3wSI9CdeO4OuT//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQL9i//8QAFxEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEBFBUf/aAAgBAwEBPxDECj//xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEUFR/9oACAECAQE/ENyLH//EABwQAQEAAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERADEhQWFxUf/aAAgBAQABPxBKCAq4frxkCfkQvl+zKun3FdGFe9mvDE0v7bRs47cblEqy4Soihgar2L1geK1n/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0ac9cb5123437963e34809e21157c489/f9913/bella-kelly-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0ac9cb5123437963e34809e21157c489/f836f/bella-kelly-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0ac9cb5123437963e34809e21157c489/2244e/bella-kelly-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0ac9cb5123437963e34809e21157c489/f9913/bella-kelly-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bella, my dachshund, has brought immeasurable joy and positivity to my life through her quirky behaviours, love and companionship. She has a few endearing quirks, such as barking for food and nudging her bowl for water, which add structure to my day and strengthen our bond. Bella also enjoys sitting at the window and watching the world go by, which is calming and relaxing for both of us.
\nDespite Bella's positive impact on my life, we received the devastating news on Boxing Day that she had heart failure. It was heart-breaking to hear, especially after she had already undergone spinal surgery to treat intervertebral disc disease. However, we are doing everything possible to ensure Bella is comfortable and receiving the best care possible. Though it is a challenging time for our family, Bella's resilience and determination continue to inspire us.
\n\n\n\n\nBella's positive impact on my life is immeasurable
\n
Bella's spinal surgery and recovery was a long process that required patience and care, but the experience brought us closer together. Her resilience in the face of adversity was nothing short of remarkable, and her recovery has been a testament to the enduring bond between pets and their owners. Today, Bella is back to her playful and energetic self, and we are grateful for the veterinary care and support that helped her heal.
\nBella's constant companionship, love and affection have provided me with a sense of purpose and responsibility. Her presence has also increased my physical activity and appreciation for nature. She inspires me to spend more time outside and to appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
\nDespite the challenges we face with Bella's heart failure, we are cherishing the time we have left with her. She continues to provide us with love and companionship, and we are thankful for every moment we have together. Bella's positive impact on my life is immeasurable, and I feel incredibly lucky to have her as a companion and pet.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bella-sarah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e51e83fcddf22925f6e0ac1bc81e3762/f9913/bella-sarah-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e51e83fcddf22925f6e0ac1bc81e3762/f836f/bella-sarah-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e51e83fcddf22925f6e0ac1bc81e3762/2244e/bella-sarah-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e51e83fcddf22925f6e0ac1bc81e3762/f9913/bella-sarah-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\nShe’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.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s been my rock through some hard times
\n
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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bella","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bella-theresa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/24f71b6f1ed0d67900d641624dcb4e9a/f9913/bella-theresa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/24f71b6f1ed0d67900d641624dcb4e9a/f836f/bella-theresa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/24f71b6f1ed0d67900d641624dcb4e9a/2244e/bella-theresa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/24f71b6f1ed0d67900d641624dcb4e9a/f9913/bella-theresa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bella came to us at a very stressful and distressing time. At the end of October 2022, my late mum had a stroke, which sped up her dementia. A couple of weeks later, our dear dog of eight years lay down one night and left us. Whilst reeling from all this, mum and I were determined to share our home with another rescue dog.
\n\n\n\n\nAs my mum's health deteriorated, Bella never left her side
\n
This was when sweet, gentle Bella came into our lives. She’s a Greyhound cross and the most caring dog. As my mum's health deteriorated, Bella never left her side until she went to bed at night. After that, she would come to me.
\nEven when mum became totally bed-bound, Bella would sit next to her, close enough for mum to stroke her. Since mum passed, she still enjoys lying in her bedroom and spending the evenings with me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Belle","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-belle","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/584c733f6c67f0aed46338a21482d66e/f9913/belle-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/584c733f6c67f0aed46338a21482d66e/f836f/belle-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/584c733f6c67f0aed46338a21482d66e/2244e/belle-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/584c733f6c67f0aed46338a21482d66e/f9913/belle-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I rescued Belle two years ago after losing my previous dog Obi. I’d suffered terrible mental health and PTSD around the same time and would wake up in the night with terrible panic attacks, but Belle has filled a very big hole in my life with the love she shows.
\n\n\nShe really is a joy in my life and always keeps a smile on my face
\n
With her love, loyalty and companionship, I started to get on the road to recovery. I would attend regular therapy and, with the comfort of knowing Belle was waiting for me at home, I saw the next few years through. My confidence has grown, the attacks have stopped, and I am back in a full-time job.
\nShe makes me laugh so very much with her funny little noises and habits. She also loves to grunt like a pig when snuggled up and spins around and dances when it’s time for food. She really is a joy in my life and always keeps a smile on my face.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Belle","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-belle-amee","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cb920e77af6ae487246425fb40b05307/f9913/belle-amee-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cb920e77af6ae487246425fb40b05307/f836f/belle-amee-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/cb920e77af6ae487246425fb40b05307/2244e/belle-amee-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/cb920e77af6ae487246425fb40b05307/f9913/belle-amee-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Belle has been an absolute star over the last two years. She’s stayed with me when I’ve been extremely unwell in hospital and supported me through a rough pregnancy and birth. Plus, she was the first assistance dog to join the labour ward in my local hospital!
\n\n\n\n\nI couldn’t be prouder of her
\n
She is so special to me, and I wouldn’t be able to get through each day without her guidance.
\nBelle not only helps me, but she also volunteers on an intensive care and general ward at the hospital, as well as a primary school for therapy dog sessions. She loves absolutely everyone and everything, so there’s nothing that phases her. I couldn’t be prouder of her beautiful temperament and willingness to work.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Benji","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-benji","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/673c17cf5c1f2b72d46beec4eb6e43f5/f9913/benji-heather-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/673c17cf5c1f2b72d46beec4eb6e43f5/f836f/benji-heather-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/673c17cf5c1f2b72d46beec4eb6e43f5/2244e/benji-heather-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/673c17cf5c1f2b72d46beec4eb6e43f5/f9913/benji-heather-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Benji is a Fox Red Labrador, who arrived with us in lockdown 2020. He was only 10 months old, and he’d spent a lot of that time locked up in a puppy crate with owners who didn’t have a garden or any time for him. He was an impulse buy they regretted, and they didn’t know how to look after him.
\nAs a result, he chewed everything he could to relieve the boredom and anxiety. He suffered from gut problems and conjunctivitis, and he was generally an unhappy boy. After a bit of settling in and some training, he’s now nearly four years old and he’s a wonderful, happy, inquisitive, loving dog.
\nHe keeps me company when I’m working and lets me know when I’ve been sitting too long and it’s time for a walk. He's also trained me to fetch his ball when he chucks it from the top of the stairs so I can throw it back. Unfortunately, he thinks other items can also be chucked, such as the odd bone, which has a harder landing on the tiled floor!
\nHe adores swimming and has been known to become immovable and scream loudly in a tantrum when asked to leave a lovely beach. If you ask him what good boys do, he’ll immediately sit down on the floor, waiting for a tasty reward.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s a wonderful, happy, inquisitive, loving boy
\n
He gives me dog kisses (with no licking) to show he’s my buddy, and belly rubs are obligatory before breakfast. He’s got me walking, enjoying the outdoors, making new dog owner friends, and generally loving my life more because he’s in it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bernie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bernie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5a7586fe1a2954edebf93fa4ad250a0f/f9913/bernie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5a7586fe1a2954edebf93fa4ad250a0f/f836f/bernie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5a7586fe1a2954edebf93fa4ad250a0f/2244e/bernie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5a7586fe1a2954edebf93fa4ad250a0f/f9913/bernie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bernie is my fur baby bundle of joy. I lost my dog Lucky who I had for ten years very suddenly, and I swore never to get another dog as the pain losing them is horrendous. But after four months of coming home to an empty house, I decided to adopt.
\nThat’s when I got Bernie and I’m so glad I did. He makes me laugh and cry. We have cuddles and he sleeps by my side, he snores and belches very loudly after every meal or treat! He loves his tennis ball – I sometimes have to throw it in the house for him.
\n\n\nEvery dog deserves to be loved
\n
My friend calls him Lamb Chops because he looks like one! He jumps very high when he wants your attention or to go for walk. I just love him to bits as he's helped me through some really bad times. In summer or when weather’s fine, there’s a group of us with dogs and he loves playing with all his friends. It makes you smile knowing they are happy. Every dog deserves to be loved.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bess","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bess-mell","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAv/EABcBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAeMe2MKTQHahC0jSv//EABwQAAICAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECABIDESETIv/aAAgBAQABBQLL8pdWPnubs9Q8GFIp6BByf//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEgMf/aAAgBAgEBPwERP//EAB0QAAICAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERABIyAhAhMXH/2gAIAQEABj8Cc6InGsSlWEypjUTFw+Lf/8QAHBABAAIDAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBgbHR/9oACAEBAAE/IdB6uYBBxGdlEGrb5ipaMS0G/M+guaYBbHqQmClGJ//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQr8CB/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAx/9oACAEDAQE/EDIT/8QAGhEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQESFRof/aAAgBAgEBPxCiyLW+Dj//xAAeEAEAAgICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABESEAMUGBUWGhwf/aAAgBAQABPxATDLQp2YpEVJvcZH9ud3j7rBKIvbXqMqmx3srlwQ2vuz45FRyZsThLPHjAi4Dw7z//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/bf1e370d678774b9aec2b2c626ce3a60/f9913/bess-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bf1e370d678774b9aec2b2c626ce3a60/f836f/bess-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/bf1e370d678774b9aec2b2c626ce3a60/2244e/bess-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/bf1e370d678774b9aec2b2c626ce3a60/f9913/bess-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bess was a rescue from the Border Collie Trust. She is very quietand a little timid, but she’s still adored by everyone who meets her. When she first arrived, she was afraid of everything, and although she still doesn’t like fireworks or loud noises, she’s come out of her shell a lot. Now she even allows strangers to strokeher, which is a good thing because everyone who meets her can’t seem to stay away!
\n\n\nShe’s come out of her shell
\n
Her favorite pastime is playing with plastic flower pots and racing around the garden.She is such a great dog and has helped us all to get through lockdown with her gentlenessand patience.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bibi","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bibi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6a8e30c787482b890b3ee0e9cbc89974/f9913/bibi-lisa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6a8e30c787482b890b3ee0e9cbc89974/f836f/bibi-lisa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6a8e30c787482b890b3ee0e9cbc89974/2244e/bibi-lisa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6a8e30c787482b890b3ee0e9cbc89974/f9913/bibi-lisa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bibi is an absolute joy! She is a rescue pooch from Bulgaria, and we’ve had her for five years now. She was found on the streets with seven other pups. We saw her and wanted to give her the life she deserves.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s a beautiful angel that’s been sent from heaven
\n
She’s very shy but since we’ve had our new puppy Bonnie she’s really come out of her shell. When she first arrived, she’d never seen traffic, a TV or dog toys before – everything was new to her.
\nMy son was diagnosed with epilepsy five years ago and she always knew when he was going to have a seizure. While he was having one, she would lay by his bedroom door and bark and then lie on him. Honestly, she’s a beautiful angel that’s been sent from heaven. She’s gorgeous inside and out. We spoil her so much and she deserves it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Billy","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-billy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/81cc209af3a03c9ba41a4482028eaf49/f9913/billy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/81cc209af3a03c9ba41a4482028eaf49/f836f/billy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/81cc209af3a03c9ba41a4482028eaf49/2244e/billy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/81cc209af3a03c9ba41a4482028eaf49/f9913/billy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Billy is a rescue. He’s very special, as he rescued me, too. He was 14 months old when I got him, and he was three and a half kilos underweight, as he'd been kept in a cage with no exercise. He was a scared boy, but he soon came to trust me enough for me to train him.
\nHe’s a clever Border Collie and picked things up very quickly. My husband, Tony, has dementia. And when he was still living at home, he couldn’t be left alone. So, when the carer came for an hour or so to get Tony ready for the day, Billy and I would escape to Woodbury Common, our happy place, and walk away our cares!
\n\n\n\n\nI really don’t know how I would have coped without him
\n
Tony is now in a nursing home, and Billy and I visit him regularly. Billy has a routine – when he arrives, he goes to each resident in turn for them to give him a stroke, and he gives them his love in return. He’s always done this, right from day one. On the first day we visited, I let him off the lead and he went straight to the first wheelchair, sat beside it and lay his head very gently on the resident's lap.
\nI really don’t know how I would have coped with the stress of having a partner with dementia if I had not had my boy, Bill. Not only does he give me his unconditional love, but he also gives the same to Tony and his fellow residents, too. Billy is definitely my hero.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bess","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bess","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/567d182c143ab16d6843e6f2fcc173a4/f9913/bess-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/567d182c143ab16d6843e6f2fcc173a4/f836f/bess-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/567d182c143ab16d6843e6f2fcc173a4/2244e/bess-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/567d182c143ab16d6843e6f2fcc173a4/f9913/bess-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bess is a rescue Border Collie. We’ve had her for just over two years now. When we first brought her home it was quite difficult, because she wasn’t used to living in a house. She would just hide under the trees in the garden all the time – but now she has fully settled in.
\n\n\nParticularly dislikes the TV show, The Chase
\n
She’s a very gentle dog, and doesn’t bark when you come to the door – rather, she just sits in the hall and waits patiently. She is very afraid of noise and particularly dislikes the TV show, The Chase, and especially Bradley Walsh! I don’t know what it is about him, but every time it comes on she just sits there and shakes.
\nWe’ve bought Bess many toys over the years but she ignores them all, because her favourite thing to play with are flower pots. Bess may have been neglected in the first year of her life, but we make up for it by showering her with endless love and affection every day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Billy","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Small"],"slug":"meet-billy-rachel","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/afaa6ebf27aa67ca7edd7a2c1a0686cf/f9913/billy-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/afaa6ebf27aa67ca7edd7a2c1a0686cf/f836f/billy-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/afaa6ebf27aa67ca7edd7a2c1a0686cf/2244e/billy-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/afaa6ebf27aa67ca7edd7a2c1a0686cf/f9913/billy-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Billy when he was seven months old and were already his third owners.
\nDue to being kept in a cage, he smelled pretty bad when we first met him. But now, he’s gone from being frightened of everything (even the wind!) to being a lovely, funny and confident little boy who brings us great pleasure.
\n\n\n\n\nWho needs slippers?
\n
He’s such a clever little thing and he’s a delight to train. In fact, he can do lots of tricks! I love nothing more than settling down for the evening with him lying on my feet, because who needs slippers?
\nThis picture is one of my favourites. Here, he’s just had a good brushing and his ears are full of static!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bertie","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-bertie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/24173fa5a8745049eb85fea8e7e4506d/f9913/bertie-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/24173fa5a8745049eb85fea8e7e4506d/f836f/bertie-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/24173fa5a8745049eb85fea8e7e4506d/2244e/bertie-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/24173fa5a8745049eb85fea8e7e4506d/f9913/bertie-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bertie has been the gift of life for my wife and I after we lost our baby daughter at only two weeks old.
\n\n\n\n\nThank you, Bertie
\n
The dark days are brighter with Bertie, and he shows love like no other can. He makes my wife smile again, which I never thought possible after the dreadful time we went through.
\nThank you, Bertie. You're a furry angel in disguise.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Binah","tags":["Puppy","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-binah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/364b7a778f9883fb6d880d6c5a9e7717/f9913/binah-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/364b7a778f9883fb6d880d6c5a9e7717/f836f/binah-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/364b7a778f9883fb6d880d6c5a9e7717/2244e/binah-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/364b7a778f9883fb6d880d6c5a9e7717/f9913/binah-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Binah is a Cockapoo, a curly cuddle pup. She’s clever and quirky, and she loves meeting everyone and rambling everywhere. I have primary biliary cholangitis and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, so I ride a wheelchair and spend lots of time just resting. Binah always makes me smile.
\n\n\n\n\nWe adore her, and she adores us
\n
When we go out, she’s often the reason people want to speak with us. And when we’re at home, she brings her well-chewed toys to me to play fetch, catch and tug-of-war.
\nShe seldom barks, though she occasionally gives a little squeak or baby ghost howl. She has the most beautiful eyes and big golden curls like Shirley Temple. She’s all love. We adore her, and she adores us.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bix","tags":["Adorable","Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bix","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a2b50f2c6d8ffa400ee39e1eedc60b4b/f9913/bix-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a2b50f2c6d8ffa400ee39e1eedc60b4b/f836f/bix-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a2b50f2c6d8ffa400ee39e1eedc60b4b/2244e/bix-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a2b50f2c6d8ffa400ee39e1eedc60b4b/f9913/bix-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We met Bix in the summer of 2019. As we’d recently lost our beloved dog Hamish, we were too upset to consider adopting another. But, on a trip to the Dog’s Trust to donate some of our items, we saw Bix and fell in love straight away – it was meant to be, and 9 days later he became an official part of our family.
\nAt first he was very timid around us, but now his cheeky character has started to shine through and he is an absolute joy to be around. His funny antics make us laugh every day, and he really does have a beautiful personality.
\n\n\nHis cheeky character has started to shine
\n
He loves nothing more than being at home, and upon return to the house will immediately start rolling or running around out of sheer excitement. We tried to tell him he wasn’t allowed to sit on the furniture, but he didn’t listen, and always manages to relax on the sofa and watch TV with us in the evening. He even demands his own pillow to lie on!
\nRecently, we’ve been video calling my parents every day. Bix insists he makes an appearance on each time, so as soon as he hears their voices he’ll dash into the room and jump in front of the phone screen to say hello.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Blake","tags":["Adorable","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-blake","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/54987dd67adcb4c889e8cfe90faa4e27/f9913/blake-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/54987dd67adcb4c889e8cfe90faa4e27/f836f/blake-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/54987dd67adcb4c889e8cfe90faa4e27/2244e/blake-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/54987dd67adcb4c889e8cfe90faa4e27/f9913/blake-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Blake was rehomed in March, when he was just eight months old. He’s a Pointer Cross and is very energetic, loving and playful. He had been through a couple of foster families before he found us, but we are his forever home.
\nHe is a loving dog who enjoys cuddles, chest rubs and spending time with his humans. More than anything, he adores playing with a ball – though he doesn’t always like to give it back! Recently, he had his first taste of snow and just couldn’t get enough of it.
\n\n\nWe are his forever home
\n
Something else which he basks in is human affection – he’s featured in many a zoom call, always sneaking into the room when I have my back turned so that he can come and say hello. He’s even starred on a rugby pet calendar, for which he had to pose at Murrayfield stadium.
\nEarlier this year, my wife was made redundant and I had to undergo an unexpected operation. Blake has been a huge source of comfort to us both, and we simply couldn’t imagine our lives without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Blaze","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-blaze","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/36141ae9663bb923b503c22a391f716f/f9913/blaze-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/36141ae9663bb923b503c22a391f716f/f836f/blaze-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/36141ae9663bb923b503c22a391f716f/2244e/blaze-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/36141ae9663bb923b503c22a391f716f/f9913/blaze-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Blaze is a one-year-old Olde Tyme English bulldog. He’s such a funny character and brings joy to the entire family. When we first got him, he couldn't walk and had no use of his back legs so, once he had the all-clear from the vets that it wasn't neurological, we had to teach him to walk.
\nDespite still having weakness in his legs, Blaze bombs around the house, constantly getting into mischief. He loves to steal socks and shoes, or anything he's not meant to have and hide behind the couch with it. He’s also friendly with our elderly hamster.
\n\n\nHe bombs around the house, constantly getting into mischief
\n
Blaze comes everywhere with us, and we’ve recently come back from Crail, Scotland where he was a fan favourite. He comes swimming with us down the beach, and even has doggy swimming lessons.
\nAfter we lost our old dog, Bruno, at the age of 13, our lives felt empty without a dog and the house felt quiet. We were all mourning the loss of our best friend. Blaze has definitely filled a hole in our hearts – and our beds. He loves to have a good snooze!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Blossom","tags":["Family","Rescue Dog","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-blossom","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3ed162f69c537744fd380497ff7c8d84/f9913/blossom-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3ed162f69c537744fd380497ff7c8d84/f836f/blossom-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3ed162f69c537744fd380497ff7c8d84/2244e/blossom-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3ed162f69c537744fd380497ff7c8d84/f9913/blossom-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Blossom is originally from Ireland where she was used for breeding. It wasn’t long before they realised that she was passing on her overbite, reducing the value of her puppies. They no longer wanted her, so she went to Many Tears rescue centre in Wales.
\nFrom there she went to a foster home, before being adopted by a family. Sadly, this didn’t last long due to a marriage breakdown, so it was back to Many Tears, into another foster home, and then we met her and she came home with us. This was all before she was five years old.
\nWe’ve now had Blossom for three years and it’s like she’s always been here. It took her about a year before she would let us rub her belly, and she’s still not 100% sure about my husband. But she’s my shadow and will follow me wherever I go. It’s a bond I’ve never had with any other dog I’ve owned and it’s so special. She’s been my jogging buddy, my marathon-walking buddy, my isolation buddy, and everything in between.
\n\n\nWe absolutely adore every little hair on her
\n
To see her character come out over the years has been absolutely beautiful. Watching her enjoying walks, trips in the car, days out as a family, scratches and her spectacular zoomies around our garden truly warms my heart. She is fantastic with both my daughters, and she even loves the guinea pigs!
\nThere isn’t a bad bone in this dog’s body, which astounds me as she had such a rubbish start to her life. She is so patient and kind to our little puppy who joined the family in December, although she could do with being a bit firmer with him as he’s running rings around her!
\nHonestly, the love that our whole family has for this little ‘potato gremlin’ is immense. She’s our funky little monkey and we absolutely ADORE every little hair on her (though it would be nice if they stayed on her and didn’t stick to everything she touches!).
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Blade","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-blade","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1cc49fe479778f249fc2629f4c4df758/f9913/blade-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1cc49fe479778f249fc2629f4c4df758/f836f/blade-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1cc49fe479778f249fc2629f4c4df758/2244e/blade-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1cc49fe479778f249fc2629f4c4df758/f9913/blade-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Blade came into our lives when he was just 17 weeks old. We chose a Bullmastiff because we knew they had a strong character and good temperament, and Blade did not disappoint. He fit right into our little family, offering us endless laughs and slobbery kisses!
\n\n\nSnores like a tractor and eats like a horse
\n
Everyone that meets Blade falls head over heels for him. He has so many funny quirks, like sitting and staring at the security camera we have for our house. When he recognises someone on the screen, he gets so excited that he runs straight to the door so he can greet them with a little dance.
\nBlade snores like a tractor and eats like a horse, but I wouldn’t change him for the world. He’s so loving and loyal, and loves to shower us with his adorable affection. My husband-to-be suffers with a disorder called Cluster Headaches, which can be distressing for him. Blade is so intuitive, he knows when an attack is imminent and will put his head on my partner’s knee, sitting with him until he’s calmed down. Blade is our very own super hero.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bob","tags":["Brave & loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bob","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/43248cf0e61796352e79e4e960b1a674/f9913/bob-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/43248cf0e61796352e79e4e960b1a674/f836f/bob-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/43248cf0e61796352e79e4e960b1a674/2244e/bob-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/43248cf0e61796352e79e4e960b1a674/f9913/bob-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got Bob from Gumtree, because his old owner said he didn’t get along with her other dogs. At this point he was 18 months old and had never really been on a walk outside, he had always been pushed around in a dog pram because he just refused to walk!
\nThe special thing about Bob is he has three legs, as his front left leg never properly formed. The day he came to live with me I popped him down on the pavement and with no issue at all he started hopping along next to me! He now loves his long walks along the local canal with my grandad, my mum and her dogs, managing about eight miles which is pretty good for a three-legged Chihuahua!
\n\n\nHe now loves his long walks
\n
He hasn’t just brightened up my life but also all of my family members lives too. The first thing any of them say to me is always ‘How’s bob doing?’.
\nThis cheeky little monkey loves nothing more than playing fetch, eating lots of treats and receiving lots of belly rubs. His favourite place in the world is the beach, although he thinks he owns the place once he gets there!
\nHe is such an inspiration with how he gets on with his life and adapts to everything in his path no problem. More recently, throughout this pandemic he has been a true star. Things were so strange, but getting out every morning for a long walk with Bob really helped me through it all. I can’t say the same for the poor little guy though, he couldn’t wait for me to stop working from home so he could enjoy his naps uninterrupted!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bob","tags":["Senior","Funny","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bob-sally","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/72645995f1f26355a6906738c3096c93/f9913/bob-sally-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/72645995f1f26355a6906738c3096c93/f836f/bob-sally-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/72645995f1f26355a6906738c3096c93/2244e/bob-sally-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/72645995f1f26355a6906738c3096c93/f9913/bob-sally-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bob had to have one of his rear legs amputated at the age of three, following an osteosarcoma. He then underwent chemotherapy, and we were told that at best he would have 12-18 months. Bob didn’t hear that though. He is the most amazing dog with the most amazing zest for life.
\nHe makes us laugh with his antics every day. On his daily walks with his mum, granny, great-uncle and nephew, he gambols like a lamb and throws himself down on the ground, rolling just for the fun of it.
\nHe seems to know if we are down and will come and place his beautiful head on our laps, looking at us with his wonderful deep eyes. It’s as though he knows we helped him when he needed us and now, following my cancer diagnosis, he’s helping me, too.
\nHe adores everyone he meets, and they adore him, often not noticing he only has three legs. He has been an inspiration to owners of other dogs with the same condition, some of whom have made it like him and others who haven’t. Life with Bob is a better life.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bobby","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bobby","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/820664818cd4cfc42a02a3eb82f8cd02/f9913/boobby-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/820664818cd4cfc42a02a3eb82f8cd02/f836f/boobby-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/820664818cd4cfc42a02a3eb82f8cd02/2244e/boobby-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/820664818cd4cfc42a02a3eb82f8cd02/f9913/boobby-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nLife with Bob is a better life
\n
I have Rheumatoid Arthritis in most of my joints, so I struggle with mobility. My dog Bobby is a great companion for me, as I don’t get out very often. He’s so funny and full of life, he makes my days a lot more bearable.
\n\n\nHe can also be quite mischievous
\n
Bobby enjoys going out for walks with my wife, and he also attends doggieday carewhere he gets to play and socialise with other dogs. He’s very friendly and especially loves children, but he can also be quite mischievous. Bobby has been found guilty of digging holes in my garden, and sometimes when we have guests round, he’ll pinch the television remote so he can present it to them as a gift!
\nI’m so glad we have Bobby, because he brightens up our life a great deal.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bobby Dog","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bobby-dog","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4cec5c10866a95c7d62f63edd86980fa/d8815/bobbydog-header.png","srcSet":"/static/4cec5c10866a95c7d62f63edd86980fa/69585/bobbydog-header.png 200w,\n/static/4cec5c10866a95c7d62f63edd86980fa/497c6/bobbydog-header.png 400w,\n/static/4cec5c10866a95c7d62f63edd86980fa/d8815/bobbydog-header.png 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bobby Dog came to us from Romania back in 2016. He was nervous but trusting, and he soon settled into our mad house.
\n\n\nHe is very caring and loves us all!
\n
He is so loving and funny, and he’s brought a lot of laughter into our lives. He is very caring, and he loves us all, but he has a particularly special bond with his Man Cub, (my son) Harvey. The two of them are best buds!
\nBobby Dog always comes on adventures with us and enjoys life to the full.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bobby","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bobby-gordon","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b0a3190861737219cf9340e6ddf4fdf2/f9913/bobby-gordon-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b0a3190861737219cf9340e6ddf4fdf2/f836f/bobby-gordon-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b0a3190861737219cf9340e6ddf4fdf2/2244e/bobby-gordon-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b0a3190861737219cf9340e6ddf4fdf2/f9913/bobby-gordon-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I lost my daughter 11 years ago on 12 June 2009 and Bobby came into my life four years later. I already had a wonderful black and white Border Collie called Sky who sadly passed away due to sarcoma cancer. After losing my daughter, I felt I needed another companion to compliment the companionship of my Border Collie Sky.
\n\n\nHe has bought untold joy into my life
\n
Bobby is such a loving, intelligent character. He has bought untold joy into my life and helps me get through difficult periods such as the anniversary of my daughter’s passing and her birthday. I can always rely on Bobby's loving nature to help me through difficult times.
\nHe loves to lick everyone’s ears and is everyone's friend. He really enjoys our walks and retrieving the ball. Bobby is constantly by my side and brings so much joy into my life. I love him dearly. He's part of our family. Bobby really could do with some recognition because of what he has done for me. I'm extremely proud of him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mr Prince Bonangles","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mr-prince-bojangles","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/49a95ffe8bcdb29f62ddf2cd59e9bf46/f9913/bonangles-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/49a95ffe8bcdb29f62ddf2cd59e9bf46/f836f/bonangles-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/49a95ffe8bcdb29f62ddf2cd59e9bf46/2244e/bonangles-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/49a95ffe8bcdb29f62ddf2cd59e9bf46/f9913/bonangles-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Prince is my best friend and is just the greatest company. He was one of a litter of six, and we picked him because of his underbite, which we fell in love with!
\n\n\nHe’s my best friend
\n
Prince seems to instinctively know when you need a cuddle or cheering up, if you’d like a walk or just want to sit down. I got him after the death of my father six years ago, and he also was a huge comfort when my mother died this year.
\nPrince is a Pug who loves mountain walking and the beach. His personality is very human; he’s a mummy’s boy and loves a cuddle. He enjoys chasing birds and thinks he can catch them in the sky. He loves to eat (but luckily has never been into eating furniture or shoes!)
\nHis best friend is our family dog Theo, a Bernese Mountain Dog. He also has the trick of sneezing on you when he’s very excited!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bonnie","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bonnie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0b09b9e9e55fc4dff3440a9bc7b1a0b6/f9913/bonnie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b09b9e9e55fc4dff3440a9bc7b1a0b6/f836f/bonnie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0b09b9e9e55fc4dff3440a9bc7b1a0b6/2244e/bonnie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0b09b9e9e55fc4dff3440a9bc7b1a0b6/f9913/bonnie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My twin sister and I already had two dogs in our family when we recently decided to foster another. She’s called Bonnie and she’s just seven months old. We got her from a charity called Underdog, who rescued her from Romania.
\n\n\nLoves making new friends
\n
We don’t know her breed but whenever we go out people love to guess. Most seem to think she’s some sort of Husky, Lurcher and Terrier mix, but the jury’s still out on that one!
\nBonnie has something of a sheepdog mentality, and always tries to herd other dogs together. She’s so sociable and loves making new friends. During the day she’s crazy and energetic, but as soon as it gets dark, she loves nothing more than crashing out and curling up on our laps.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bonnie and Bella","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bonnie-bella","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2d1684982f2722c74f33885edf495e96/f9913/bonnie-bella-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2d1684982f2722c74f33885edf495e96/f836f/bonnie-bella-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2d1684982f2722c74f33885edf495e96/2244e/bonnie-bella-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2d1684982f2722c74f33885edf495e96/f9913/bonnie-bella-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bonnie is a gorgeous, fun-loving and affectionate Cocker Spaniel. She is always wagging her tail, which never fails to cheer me up. We go for walksat least twice a day and she loves nothing more than chasing after a ball. She also does agility training once a week, and that’s helped me to get fitter.
\n\n\nNever fails to cheer me up
\n
We take her on holiday with us, and this year we’re looking forward to going on a staycation where we can enjoy long and peaceful walks. We’ll also be joined by another little Cocker Spaniel called Bella. Bonnie has taken so well to the new pup, mothering her, and enjoying the odd game of tug of war with her new companion. She even washes Bella, and they always like to sleep curled up together. It’s so adorable!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bonz","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bonz","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6ef53ebb8024dc3fe321658d4198ba3f/f9913/bonz-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6ef53ebb8024dc3fe321658d4198ba3f/f836f/bonz-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6ef53ebb8024dc3fe321658d4198ba3f/2244e/bonz-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6ef53ebb8024dc3fe321658d4198ba3f/f9913/bonz-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\nA 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.
\n\n\n\n\nHe still looks amazing and has certainly enjoyed life
\n
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!
\nPlaything 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’!
\nWe 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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Boo","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-boo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/674002fbaf21d07dd12536ea43eebf81/f9913/boo-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/674002fbaf21d07dd12536ea43eebf81/f836f/boo-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/674002fbaf21d07dd12536ea43eebf81/2244e/boo-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/674002fbaf21d07dd12536ea43eebf81/f9913/boo-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We saw an advert for Boo online when she was just four months old, and went to have a look at her. We fell in love with her straight away and welcomed her into our home.
\nAt first she was really scared, and it was clear she had never been played with or cuddled. It wasn’t long before we taught her how good life can be and started to earn her trust. Now, she loves playing in the mud and chasing squirrels.
\n\n\nShe has changed our lives
\n
In lockdown, I was taking Boo on lots of walks, which inspired me to start a recall course and become a dog trainer. Now my business is going from strength to strength, all thanks to Boo. She has changed our lives for the better.
\nBoo has so many quirks that make us all laugh, like the way she sneaks into my bed every night. She really is the cutest dog you could ever ask for!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bourneville","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bourneville","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2c97358477a6a8155173a8c5932eb413/f9913/bournevillo-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2c97358477a6a8155173a8c5932eb413/f836f/bournevillo-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2c97358477a6a8155173a8c5932eb413/2244e/bournevillo-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2c97358477a6a8155173a8c5932eb413/f9913/bournevillo-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bourneville is the best thing to ever happen to me. Every morning when I’m baking, he sits patiently waiting for a crumb to fall or for me to give him my leftover ingredients. He’s so funny and very clumsy, and he’s always tripping over his own paws.
\n\n\nHe’s so funny and very clumsy
\n
He considers every dog he meets his friend, no matter who they are. Not only is Bourneville the most affectionate dog there is, but he’s also stunning, thanks to his beautiful brown fur. We named him after chocolateof the same colour!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bowie","tags":["Funny","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bowie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cf5ba669e7a21b7f7b1d4dcb5cc21cab/f9913/bowie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cf5ba669e7a21b7f7b1d4dcb5cc21cab/f836f/bowie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cf5ba669e7a21b7f7b1d4dcb5cc21cab/2244e/bowie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cf5ba669e7a21b7f7b1d4dcb5cc21cab/f9913/bowie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bowie is a ‘Huskador’ – his mum was a Siberian Husky and his dad was a chocolate Labrador. Bowie has chocolate fur with a Husky tail and ruff around his neck and chest. He also has one brown eye and one blue eye!
\nI got him after my daughter took her puppy, who had been living with me, back to live with her after the first lockdown. There was a huge empty space in our lives, which Bowie has filled for us all.
\n\n\nHas even learned to kiss on command
\n
He has quite the fan club going in the village where we live. It’s not surprising, given he has so many adorable traits – like when he barks and it sounds like he’s shouting 'Hello' at us and our cat! He’s got such a gentle nature that he never barks at other dogs, doesn't chase cats and has even learned to kiss on command.
\nI’ve had two spinal surgeries, and this in addition to lockdown meant I stopped going on walks. Since Bowie is always keen to go out and explore, he’s succeeded in getting me out for walks up to three times a day!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bowser","tags":["Brave & loyal","Funny","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bowser","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/09fbf2dda10b972558bf7c7dec1fdcc1/9a128/bowser-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/09fbf2dda10b972558bf7c7dec1fdcc1/f836f/bowser-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/09fbf2dda10b972558bf7c7dec1fdcc1/2244e/bowser-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/09fbf2dda10b972558bf7c7dec1fdcc1/9a128/bowser-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"We got Bowser after my mother passed away from cancer. I'd been struggling, and I’d always wanted to include a dog in the family anyway. We fell in love with Bowser from the first moment we saw him, when he was just four weeks old.
\n\n\nHis favourite place to be is at the pub
\n
His favourite place to be is at the pub, where he greets everyone with a wagging tail and demands a belly rub. He's great with other dogs and loves kids, but he definitely has a naughty streak!
\nHe's done me a world of good and owning him has made me much more sociable. In fact, since getting Bowser, I’ve spoken to more people than ever before.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bramble","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bramble","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f22d8b2b9714d80cbf68f042a77ae654/f9913/bramble-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f22d8b2b9714d80cbf68f042a77ae654/f836f/bramble-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f22d8b2b9714d80cbf68f042a77ae654/2244e/bramble-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f22d8b2b9714d80cbf68f042a77ae654/f9913/bramble-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bramble is a Registered Assistance Dog. She helps me in my day-to-day life with tasks like retrieving objects and pulling the washing out of the machine. Shopping, however, is not something she enjoys. Every time we pull up to the supermarket, she’ll look out of the car to see which one we’re at, and if it’s one she doesn't like it, she’ll just sit there and refuse to come in!
\n\n\nShe’ll just sit there and refuse to come in!
\n
Bramble was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. She loves to give me cuddles and has helped to build up my confidence. Now, I can do more things own my own, and she even encourages me to stop and speak to people I wouldn't normally chat with.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bramble","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bramble-diane","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e7421352cb9ca145be475ff11d821165/f9913/bramble-diane-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e7421352cb9ca145be475ff11d821165/f836f/bramble-diane-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e7421352cb9ca145be475ff11d821165/2244e/bramble-diane-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e7421352cb9ca145be475ff11d821165/f9913/bramble-diane-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bramble is such a positive influence in my life. She’s always so happy and loves nothing more than making me laugh. One of her favourite things to play with is her Frisbee, especially when we’re on the beach.
\nShe enjoys keeping me company and is always there to lend a paw. When I’m gardening, for instance, she’ll help me out by putting her ball in the trug. Bramble is also very affectionate, and won’t go to bed until she’s had her nightly kisses and cuddles.
\n\n\nWon’t go to bed until she’s had her nightly kisses
\n
As a very clever dog, she knows exactly when it’s time for her treats in the morning and afternoon. I often find her waiting for me by the cupboard, and she won’t move until I’ve handed them over! Bramble has a love-hate relationship with our cat Alfie. I know she adores him, but he often rejects her with just a flick of his paw – it never seems to deter her from trying though.
\nHaving a dog is great because they always wants to go for a walk. This means that even on the most wet and dismal days, I’m forced to get out and enjoy some fresh air, which really does help to keep me fit. Every day is special with Bramble in my life – she gives me a reason to carry on.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bramble","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bramble-jodie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c4e1e24b2dfad048408580e10fead54e/f9913/bramble-jodie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c4e1e24b2dfad048408580e10fead54e/f836f/bramble-jodie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c4e1e24b2dfad048408580e10fead54e/2244e/bramble-jodie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c4e1e24b2dfad048408580e10fead54e/f9913/bramble-jodie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bramble is the most incredible dog in every sense. She has done TV and film work, performed in plays on stage, has achieved the highest level in agility class, was crowned a winner in dancing at Crufts and last but certainly not least, has made a huge difference to my life.
\nI suffer from depression and PTSD, and because of that I sometimes have dissociative episodes. When I do, Bramble will lie on my chest and lick my face, which can help stop the episodes from getting any worse. She is also trained as a hearing dog for my sister, who is deaf, and can alert her to noises, help her to cross the road and even bring her items.
\n\n\nShe always stays positive
\n
I’m a dog trainer and behaviourist and Bramble works with me as a ‘stooge dog’, which involves helping in the rehabilitation of anxious dogs and puppies. Her brilliant personality has helped build confidence in so many others. She also works with people who have severe dog phobias and has visited primary, secondary and special education schools to educate them about her fellow four-legged friends.
\nRecently, Bramble has been a bit poorly and is unable to do everything she normally loves – but she always stays positive, and makes the most of the things she can still do, like going for walks and snuggling on the sofa. She truly is an incredible dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Brea","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-brea","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9b61b933c24eef4708615bd1763f9e69/f9913/brea-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9b61b933c24eef4708615bd1763f9e69/f836f/brea-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/9b61b933c24eef4708615bd1763f9e69/2244e/brea-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/9b61b933c24eef4708615bd1763f9e69/f9913/brea-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Brea on a whim. We’d discussed getting a dog for years, but we’d never taken the idea further. Then, one day, my partner told me someone he knew had some Labrador puppies and, well, the rest is history!
\nWe had a choice of three girl pups, but it was Brea that chose us, refusing to play with her litter mates, and spending the whole time at our feet. She didn’t even cry when she left her litter.
\nBrea had a rough start to life when she developed a limp that worsened rapidly. It turned out she had a rare bone condition in her elbow and required surgery at six months old. The recovery was expensive, long, and difficult when it came to trying to contain her puppy energy, but we put the time to great use with training. The surgery went well and three years later, the bolt in her elbow gives her no issues.
\n\n\n\n\nWe’re so grateful and proud she chose us as her family
\n
She’s an obedient dog, knows many commands and tricks and is very enthusiastic to do them, particularly when there is a treat in hand – a typical labrador!
\nShe’s also kind and intelligent. When my mum had knee surgery, she used a walking stick when taking Brea on a walk to steady herself on uneven ground. To our amazement, Brea refused to run ahead when off the lead, and instead stuck next to my mum the entire walk, slowly guiding and taking her around fallen trees on a safer path – we couldn’t believe it! As soon as my mum put her stick away, Brea ran into the water or began playing with her favourite item, pine cones, which she chucks in the air.
\nWe struggle to imagine life without Brea, and are so grateful and proud she chose us as her family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Brewster","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-brewster","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/23a78dc0b9fc6e3db52392ae24accb69/f9913/brewster-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/23a78dc0b9fc6e3db52392ae24accb69/f836f/brewster-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/23a78dc0b9fc6e3db52392ae24accb69/2244e/brewster-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/23a78dc0b9fc6e3db52392ae24accb69/f9913/brewster-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Brewster is a rescue dog, but I think he’s saved me just as much as I saved him. I have severe endometriosis which causes me a lot of pain and I can sometimes feel very low. Brewster has only lived with me for a short while, but we already have such a strong bond, and he's changed my life immeasurably.
\nHe loves exploring outside and has learned how to walk nicely on his lead. I'm so proud of him. Keeping active is good for me too, and I can already feel my health and mood improving because of our daily adventures.
\n\n\nI can already feel my health and mood improving
\n
Brewster is such a perceptive boy and can always tell if I'm having a difficult day. He loves to play and can be quite boisterous, but when I'm feeling low, he's so gentle and will just come and rest his head on my leg or put his front paw over my hand. He lives for cuddles and adores having his face stroked.
\nI work from home, and Brewster likes to lie on the floor and keep my feet warm – which is always very welcome on those wet and cold days! My dog has had such a huge impact on my life in such a short space of time. He's loving, friendly and fun and I feel like the luckiest dog mum in the world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Broden","tags":["Support Dogs","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-broden","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c42e29618811a2bbbf68b8a6a2635a4f/f9913/broden-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c42e29618811a2bbbf68b8a6a2635a4f/f836f/broden-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c42e29618811a2bbbf68b8a6a2635a4f/2244e/broden-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c42e29618811a2bbbf68b8a6a2635a4f/f9913/broden-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Broden has been part of our family since he was just eight weeks old. He’sthe kindest, most gentle and handsome dog, but can also be very stubborn and greedy when he wants to be!
\n\n\nHe made people smile
\n
He’s travelled with us on boats and trains and has even been on cable cars in the mountains. When he was younger, he became a Pets as Therapy dog, and for five years he visited schools, day centres and care homes where he made people smile and helped children learn how to read.
\nSince my husband retired, Broden has been his daily walking companion. Although Broden is getting old, they often cover five miles each day, which helps both of them to stay active. Our dog brings us so much joy and he is loved by everyone who meets him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Brodie","tags":["Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-brodie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/214fe157507f0390bfd5353ab167bab8/f9913/brodie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/214fe157507f0390bfd5353ab167bab8/f836f/brodie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/214fe157507f0390bfd5353ab167bab8/2244e/brodie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/214fe157507f0390bfd5353ab167bab8/f9913/brodie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Brodie is known as the ‘sun worshipper’, because he likes to carry his bed around the house and place it wherever he can soak up the best rays! Another of his hilarious antics involves finding and carrying sticks that are at least three times as large as him. If you get in his way, he won’t walk around you but instead keeps bashing into your leg until you move.
\n\n\nKeeps bashing your leg until you move
\n
He likes to help me in the garden – although help is a loose term, as mostly he just puts his tennis ball where I’m about to plant something. Brodie didn’t have the best start in life, as he was put into a recuse centre, but now he’s truly flourished and is our very own little prince.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bramble","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-bramble-vivienne","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/26e2dfd830e52519e488562c6125b5fb/f9913/bramble-vivienne-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/26e2dfd830e52519e488562c6125b5fb/f836f/bramble-vivienne-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/26e2dfd830e52519e488562c6125b5fb/2244e/bramble-vivienne-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/26e2dfd830e52519e488562c6125b5fb/f9913/bramble-vivienne-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When we fostered Bramble 11 years ago, she was very frightened and shut down from her treatment at a puppy farm. She wouldn’t walk past me if I had boots on and would drop her head if you tried to pet her.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s so precious to us
\n
I couldn’t get her to sit with me for months, so I arranged some cuddle time for a few days, and she eventually found her way back for more. And getting a kiss from her is rare, but she enjoys receiving them.
\nShe’s so precious to us. It’s clear that Bramble has learned a lot from the way she’s now being treated, but we’ve learnt so much more from the love she gives back.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Brody","tags":["Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-brody","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5084cc50b274a7cf293994965f109ec1/f9913/broady-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5084cc50b274a7cf293994965f109ec1/f836f/broady-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5084cc50b274a7cf293994965f109ec1/2244e/broady-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5084cc50b274a7cf293994965f109ec1/f9913/broady-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Brody is the most loving dog. He brought my partner and I closer togetherwhen we took him on his daily walks during lockdown. He is patient, caring and playful, and he always looks after our new-born son, laying with him when he cries, or staying at our feet when we feed him.
\n\n\nHe always looks after our new-born son
\n
He also has a great sense of humour and a very playful character. For instance, he likes to survey the neighbourhood as though he’s a watchdog, he barks at his treats and spends hours playing with his ball. Brody is a truly special dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Broden","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-broden","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/38ef339247a6ff578ba1928715f7c692/f9913/broden-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/38ef339247a6ff578ba1928715f7c692/f836f/broden-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/38ef339247a6ff578ba1928715f7c692/2244e/broden-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/38ef339247a6ff578ba1928715f7c692/f9913/broden-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Broden has been with us from eight weeks old – always rather stubborn but the best family dog ever. He’s welcomed new grandchildren into the family, loving their cuddles.
\n\n\nThe best family dog ever
\n
He became a Pets as Therapy dog and has visited care homes and schools. If faced with a person in a wheelchair he will lay his big head on their knees so they can stroke him. He has helped schoolchildren read and helped a child overcome a fear of dogs.
\nSince my husband retired he has been his walking companion, even walking the Cotswold Way and the Coast to Coast with him. He’s slowing down a bit now, but still has the biggest heart and personality.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bruce","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bruce","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3ca6bce2288de0ec9adb7be2a86b5228/f9913/bruce-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3ca6bce2288de0ec9adb7be2a86b5228/f836f/bruce-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3ca6bce2288de0ec9adb7be2a86b5228/2244e/bruce-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3ca6bce2288de0ec9adb7be2a86b5228/f9913/bruce-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My partner and I are both nurses. The last two years have left us tired, frazzled and at times afraid and terribly sad. Our two little boys Felix, aged seven, and Jude, aged six, were some of the few children at school throughout and they’ve been so brave.
\nI love dogs but it was never possible to have one with the long hours we worked. Then, in June last year, I got a job that allowed me to work from home a couple of days a week and we saw an advertisement for a litter of springer spaniels. It took some convincing but my partner, Dee, finally agreed to see them and the rest is history.
\n\n\nEven on the most difficult days, Bruce is always there
\n
Bruce is typical of his breed – intelligent, playful, affectionate and slightly loopy. With the boys, he is always gentle and loving, and hearing them squeal with laughter when they all play together fills my heart.
\nEven on the most difficult days, Bruce is always happy to see us and always ready with a cuddle and a slobbery kiss. More times than I care to mention, I have sat on the sofa after a day at work and cried, and Bruce is always there, wrapped around my neck or lying across my legs and looking at me with his big brown eyes. The loopiness stops and he is just calm and present, and I feel better.
\nHe gives me the strength to keep going. I have lost weight, my blood pressure and pulse are lower. I am loving our walks and looking forward to holidays in the lakes and Yorkshire Dales. He has completed our family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bruiser","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bruiser","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9a54a5eb63a7aad8567c6512641260c6/f9913/bruiser-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a54a5eb63a7aad8567c6512641260c6/f836f/bruiser-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9a54a5eb63a7aad8567c6512641260c6/2244e/bruiser-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9a54a5eb63a7aad8567c6512641260c6/f9913/bruiser-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Bruiser from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in Windsor when he was just 13 weeks old. No one was quite sure what this little puppy had been through, but it must have been traumatic, as he was very timid. We knew as soon as we met him that he’d be coming home with us.
\nBruiser is a very quirky dog as we don’t actually know what his breed is. We believe he’s a Lurcher cross, but we’re not sure what he’s crossed with! He has the long legs of a Lurcher, the ears of a Deerhound, the markings and colourings of a Jack Russell, and the stocky build of maybe a Staffy. He also runs as fast as a Whippet and has the temperament of a Labrador or Retriever.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s an oddball, just like our family!
\n
He's definitely very unique, which we find quite amusing to be honest. He’s an oddball, just like our family! Bruiser has such a huge positive impact on all of us – he makes us laugh, gets us out for walks in the fresh air and takes us on adventures in new places.
\nBruiser has also had a really positive impact on me, personally. I’ve always struggled with my mental health, throughout childhood and into adulthood. Bruiser has helped to calm me down when I am upset or stressed, and he always gives me something to live for and look forward to. There’s nothing better than his cuddles and his love.
\nSix years ago, I was diagnosed with a very rare illness and, although some people don’t believe it, I really feel that Bruiser can sense when I’m going to be unwell. He becomes very protective over the house and doesn’t leave my side until I feel better. He’s not a service dog so he can’t fetch medicines, but just having him with me makes me feel so much better.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bruno","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bruno","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9564a77a826d012daaf0ff335a566058/f9913/bruno-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9564a77a826d012daaf0ff335a566058/f836f/bruno-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9564a77a826d012daaf0ff335a566058/2244e/bruno-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9564a77a826d012daaf0ff335a566058/f9913/bruno-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bruno was a rescue dog from a family who couldn't give him the love and time he needed. He was born with only one eye – he doesn't let that hold him back though, and he can run as fast as any other dog. He's wary of strangers and new environments, but once he gains your trust, he's the sweetest, most lovable dog I know.
\nHe loves to play games like hide-and-seek and chase. And he loves to learn new tricks, too. He loves to crunch on all fruits and vegetables. As soon as hears the vegetable drawer in the fridge open, he dashes to get a treat!
\n\n\nHe's the sweetest, most lovable dog I know
\n
The most amazing thing about him is that if you spill or drop something edible in the kitchen, you just need to shout \"clean up team\". No matter where he is in the house or garden, he will come dashing in to find you and will lick it up immediately. If he can't see it straight away, just point and he will find it.
\nHe is the most amazing dog I have ever met and my family and I would be lost without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bruno","tags":["Puppy","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bruno-ellie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/33755c392e588b7ba4e61131b6d2aada/f9913/bruno-ellie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/33755c392e588b7ba4e61131b6d2aada/f836f/bruno-ellie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/33755c392e588b7ba4e61131b6d2aada/2244e/bruno-ellie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/33755c392e588b7ba4e61131b6d2aada/f9913/bruno-ellie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"After losing my old dog Kai in November 2020, I was absolutely heartbroken. I couldn’t go to work, couldn’t eat or drink, my hair started to fall out – a lot. I said to myself I’d never get another dog, as I didn’t want to get heartbroken again. I met my partner in May 2021. He lost his dog in 2019 and he had the exact same problems with heartbreak.
\nFor our one year anniversary, my partner bought me Bruno. I was so happy, I cried for hours! Since having Bruno, he has mended my heart and fixed a piece of me that was missing. He has cured my anxiety and depression, I am off my medication now for mental health. I was due to have the gastric sleeve this year, however, he has given me the motivation to go on long walks, I have lost nearly 7 stone now!
\n\n\n\n\nHe is such an intelligent dog for nine months old
\n
My partner is type 1 diabetic. Bruno magically knows when his sugars are high or low. He will jump all over me and won’t stop until I check my partner’s sugars, and would you believe it, they are either dangerously high or low. He is such an intelligent dog for nine months old. He is the best little man and he really deserves to be dog of the year or month as without him, I wouldn’t be here today. He truly is my little angel.
\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bruno","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bruno-kirsty","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/12f9d6478e424e87afc97f29198e3aa5/f9913/bruno-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/12f9d6478e424e87afc97f29198e3aa5/f836f/bruno-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/12f9d6478e424e87afc97f29198e3aa5/2244e/bruno-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/12f9d6478e424e87afc97f29198e3aa5/f9913/bruno-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bruno came to us at just four months old. He is so lively and happy, and nothing ever brings him down. We could never have anticipated how greathe would be for us, or how much he would help our mental health. It’s like he knows when we’re having a bad day and does everything he can to make us feel better.
\n\n\nWe honestly can’t imagine life without him
\n
Even though he is a big dog now, he still believes he can sit on our laps. We honestly can’t imagine life without him and it’s even more difficult to remember what it what like before him.
\nBruno wants to play with every other dog he sees. His favourite places to walk are along the river or down the beach, though he isn’t a big fan of the sea. We share our love for him on his Instagram page. We just hope that if people are having a bad day, they stumble across his cute pictures and find a reason to smile again.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bruno","tags":["Puppy","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bruno-rachel","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cde49ac4edab5f3046c3604c42b26fc5/f9913/bruno-rachel-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cde49ac4edab5f3046c3604c42b26fc5/f836f/bruno-rachel-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cde49ac4edab5f3046c3604c42b26fc5/2244e/bruno-rachel-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cde49ac4edab5f3046c3604c42b26fc5/f9913/bruno-rachel-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bruno is my whole life! In April 2020, at the beginning of Covid, we were lucky enough to become paw-rents to Barnum, our first Newfoundland. Our love for Barnum was instantaneous and we enjoyed watching him grow. But just after he celebrated his first birthday, he became ill with a large tumour in his liver. We had no choice but to put him to sleep. My heart broke.
\nI never imagined my heart would ever heal, or that I’d be able to be happy again. But in May 2021, Bruno was born. Sadly, his mum passed away from heart failure after a c-section, so he was hand reared, and I knew I would have to be an extra special mama to him.
\nEight weeks later, he came to live with us in Scotland. My very broken heart was about to start healing. From the first moment I saw Bruno, I knew Barnum had sent him to help me heal. It was instant love, and it has grown every day.
\nBruno is 22 months old now and is the most gentle and loving dog. He knows when I’m sad and he’s always there to make me happy. Even when I’m happy, he has the ability to make me happier. He has healed our hearts and makes us smile every day.
\nHe’s the sweetest puppy, but he weighs in at 66kg, so his zoomies are something special, especially when he’s running over for a cuddle. He loves to kiss, cuddle and sit on our feet – or sometimes even our knees! He’s the biggest bundle of love and I love absolutely everything about him. His love is special – there are no words to describe it.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bryn","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bryn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d8e329a01c25d8c57c115f66ac9bba8d/f9913/bryn-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d8e329a01c25d8c57c115f66ac9bba8d/f836f/bryn-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d8e329a01c25d8c57c115f66ac9bba8d/2244e/bryn-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d8e329a01c25d8c57c115f66ac9bba8d/f9913/bryn-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"He has healed our hearts
\n
We have a long, emotional story, but I will try to keep it short. I got Bryn when I was going through a bad time personally. My whole world fell apart – job, house and marriage – and he really did keep me living. We soon became inseparable and I began to find myself again. He kept me on my toes with his mischievous ways and made me laugh every day.
\n\n\nLiving our best life
\n
In 2015 Bryn was diagnosed with epilepsy (a strange coincidence, as I also have epilepsy). At first I thought I was going to lose him, but after a few weeks of meds, I started to see the old Bryn return. Since then, we’ve been living our best life, climbing mountains, moving out of our old town and eventually getting my dream job working with animals (Bryn comes to work with me!).
\nIn the last couple of years Bryn’s condition has got worse, but I have been so lucky to be able to take him to work with me so I don’t worry about leaving him alone. I very rarely go anywhere without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Bryce","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-bryce","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a58da0488794644e3410bcf8f0e44af3/f9913/bryce-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a58da0488794644e3410bcf8f0e44af3/f836f/bryce-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a58da0488794644e3410bcf8f0e44af3/2244e/bryce-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a58da0488794644e3410bcf8f0e44af3/f9913/bryce-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Bryce is my best friend. He is profoundly deaf like me and so we share a very special bond – he even seems to understand all the signs I’ve taught him.
\n\n\nMy dog has been a fantastic companion
\n
He has a crazy sense of humour, and snores so loudly he gets a fright and wakes himself up! My dog has been a fantastic companion to me, especially recently. As everyone’s been wearing masks, it’s meant I can’t lipread and this has left me feeling more isolated than usual. Staying at home and relaxing in the garden with my furry companion has given me the boost I need to get through.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buckley","tags":["Adult","Small","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buckley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f5fa5d0fa0f8c5baf6c8f0d767dfe95f/f9913/buckley-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f5fa5d0fa0f8c5baf6c8f0d767dfe95f/f836f/buckley-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f5fa5d0fa0f8c5baf6c8f0d767dfe95f/2244e/buckley-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f5fa5d0fa0f8c5baf6c8f0d767dfe95f/f9913/buckley-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"After many years of begging my husband for a dog, he finally relented. He always said if we were to get a dog, it would have to be a Jack Russell. I didn't argue! Buckley was like a wrecking ball. He moved in and stole our hearts.
\nI'm still working full time and my husband is retired. Little did I know what my boys were up to while I was at work. Now, thanks to my dearest husband, Buckley will only eat if he's fed with a fork! When his food is in his bowl, he’ll nudge one of us until we get up and feed him. If we ignore him, he gives us a pretend nip and vocally argues until we feed him. I was furious with my husband, but alas, what’s done is done.
\nBuckley has brought so much love and fun to our lives. He’s a very active doggy and goes out on adventures four or five times a day. He loves riding in my car and will push his nose out of the window for some fresh air – while strapped to his booster seat, of course.
\nBuckley also loves the ladies. In fact, he can be very amorous, to the point where most female dogs will run away while he's left howling like a wolf. He also loves mucky puddles, and he’s a regular snorkeler. He blows bubbles in the puddles, then tries to catch them while I stand in the rain, wet through.
\nI’m a nurse and the last three years have been extremely stressful. I also lost my dad in April last year and was unable to attend the funeral. Buckley has really helped me and my family through these rough times. No matter what I'm feeling on any given day, coming home to him makes everything better. I truly believe he was meant to be ours! And I wouldn't change him for the world.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Brutus and Monty","tags":["Adorable","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-brutus-monty","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEBQb/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABvWOauRqs0ZkQTA//xAAbEAACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgEEAxExEv/aAAgBAQABBQJrCqxoyP6fHa2RZJF7HP/EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQIBAT8BH//EAB8QAAAEBwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhEQEiAhMUFhkf/aAAgBAQAGPwJRKs2OxnIwy/Rqj//EABkQAQEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESFBsf/aAAgBAQABPyHiey+mLpYLI6vk+0Jw6q5DImmJnl//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEBQPvv/EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8QH//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQIBAT8QH//EABwQAQADAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAEAETEhQVFxwf/aAAgBAQABPxCtEFDRtH3DNpLLp2GRYwz2cDR6Sqyg8FL+XDFYKvRzyEcDSKd6PPJkGfE//9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e3c683aa4809e6c150b1da3dd70bb6d8/f9913/brutus-monty-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e3c683aa4809e6c150b1da3dd70bb6d8/f836f/brutus-monty-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e3c683aa4809e6c150b1da3dd70bb6d8/2244e/brutus-monty-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e3c683aa4809e6c150b1da3dd70bb6d8/f9913/brutus-monty-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nComing home to him makes everything better
\n
Not long ago, I was going through a very tough time both physically and emotionally, and had to take some time off work. My husband and I had recently bought a French Bulldog pup called Brutus for my daughter as a 21st birthday present. She works full time, which meant that during the week I had to get up each morning to look after him. Spending time caring for Brutus helped to give me some structure in my day, and soon I started to find a new sense of purpose and happiness in my life.
\n\n\nBrutus helped enormously to give me some structure
\n
He is so full of character, and has brought nothing but love and joy into our lives. Of course, I had to remind myself that he wasn’t actually my dog, but my daughter’s. I think my family realised what a huge impact he was having on my life though, because a few weeks ago, they gave me my very own little French Bulldog, Monty, as an early birthday present!
\nMonty has fast become a member of our family. He’s full of energy and a very different dog to Brutus, but just as loving and affectionate as his older brother. He gets me up and moving every day and gives me the motivation I need to keep going. I owe so much to my two furry friends.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buddy","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buddy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1309f9c3d80124448b9d430407d7daea/f9913/buddy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1309f9c3d80124448b9d430407d7daea/f836f/buddy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1309f9c3d80124448b9d430407d7daea/2244e/buddy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1309f9c3d80124448b9d430407d7daea/f9913/buddy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Earlier this year my partner and I moved into our own home, and I couldn’t wait to rescue a furry friend to join us. I am a massive dog lover and was never allowed one as a child. We searched local dog homes for months to no avail, the dogs were always reserved. I was then informed about a charity which rescues street dogs from Cyprus. The first picture I saw on their Facebook page was Buddy! It was love at first sight – his eyes just capture your heart.
\n\n\nHis eyes just capture your heart
\n
When he arrived in the UK he was very nervous, but such a sweetie who just wanted to be loved. A few months down the line and I couldn’t imagine life without him! He is my best friend, making each day brighter. You would never know he had a hard start to life. He’s so friendly and gentle (he’s never even barked) and makes friends wherever he goes! He also loves going on adventures, especially the beach.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buddy","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buddy-abigail","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/564c76b373f4bde907e76bf62ebc5cf4/f9913/buddy-abigail-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/564c76b373f4bde907e76bf62ebc5cf4/f836f/buddy-abigail-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/564c76b373f4bde907e76bf62ebc5cf4/2244e/buddy-abigail-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/564c76b373f4bde907e76bf62ebc5cf4/f9913/buddy-abigail-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Buddy is the heart of our family, and a lot more than a soft cuddly lump! Everybody loves Buddy! The grandparents always ask about him, friends always give him fuss and the neighbours always sneak him treats. You can't put your hands in your pockets without him thinking there might be a B word (biscuit) in there.
\n\n\nBuddy is the heart of our family
\n
Buddy was a rescue and has been with us for three years now. He fit right in! He was the support we needed after losing our beloved family dog Tyson because Buddy knows exactly when you need a cuddle. Buddy has recently claimed some new decking for himself in the garden... we now call it Buddy's decking. It even has a sign to make sure everybody knows this!
\nBuddy loves to come running with me. We go all over town and make people smile. His tongue is so long it hits him in the face as he runs! He's the perfect running Buddy. I'd say Buddy's super power is his selective hearing because he responds better to biscuit or dinner than his own name.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buddy","tags":["Puppy","Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buddy-josh","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/88b1427e75352609c84dbb78ad421f89/f9913/buddy-josh-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/88b1427e75352609c84dbb78ad421f89/f836f/buddy-josh-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/88b1427e75352609c84dbb78ad421f89/2244e/buddy-josh-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/88b1427e75352609c84dbb78ad421f89/f9913/buddy-josh-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Buddy joined our (Josh and Catherine) lives in December 2021, after we lost our amazing Jack Russell Harry. We decided to get another Jack Russell as our life was just not complete without a dog. It was decided that Buddy would be a working dog and a companion to Josh, who runs a gardening business.
\n\n\nBuddy has been the missing piece
\n
Josh works long, hard days and it can be lonely, so Buddy would be the companion he needed to brighten the days and make every day special. From 9 weeks old, Buddy went to work. He started by spending time in the work van and exploring gardens. He learnt on the job to be obedient and go where he was told. He also learnt to pick up the weeds Josh would collect and find sticks where they shouldn’t be!
\nSome days were cold so Josh would bring heat pads to keep him toasty and on warmer days as spring came in, he would bring ice packs to keep him cool. Buddy has been the missing piece in Josh’s life and is now celebrated by the locals and customers alike. At 7 months old now he is doing so well and continues to make every day a joy. Thank you Buddy for being so amazing!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buddy","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buddy-maureen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/860ae8ac0e6a42a335b8f8749af0a7a5/f9913/buddy-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/860ae8ac0e6a42a335b8f8749af0a7a5/f836f/buddy-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/860ae8ac0e6a42a335b8f8749af0a7a5/2244e/buddy-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/860ae8ac0e6a42a335b8f8749af0a7a5/f9913/buddy-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Buddy is a dog with a great nature. He has just donated blood for the 12thtime. We have been told he has saved around 50 dogs now, which is truly incredible. He's always happy to go in and do his bit, and even now when Ican't accompany him into the room, it doesn’t seem to bother him. I think it’s probably because he knows he'll get pampered by the blood bank team!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buddy","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buddy-victoria","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8bd9288fcdbaa734bedef51a460dace9/f9913/buddy-victoria-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8bd9288fcdbaa734bedef51a460dace9/f836f/buddy-victoria-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8bd9288fcdbaa734bedef51a460dace9/2244e/buddy-victoria-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8bd9288fcdbaa734bedef51a460dace9/f9913/buddy-victoria-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"He has saved around 50 dogs
\n
Buddy belongs to my 14-year-old daughter, Abbie. For four years, from the age of three, she wanted a dog. Eventually, she chose Buddy, a two-day-old red Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and we visited every other week until he could come home with us.
\nAbbie has been committed to Buddy ever since. She’s been taking him training twice a week, every week, since he was old enough to go to puppy classes. She feeds him and bathes him and does everything for him. She has even researched the best food for maintaining his health.
\n\n\nThe bond they have is wonderful to see
\n
The bond they have is wonderful to see. When Abbie is unwell or struggling with her asthma, Buddy never leaves her side, choosing to lay next to her until she is well. As a team, they have worked together, competing in Obedience and Rally shows around the region. They’ve also competed at Crufts and won first place many times. This year, they were even chosen to be part of the Northern Team for the Interregional Rally competition at Crufts, where they won first place again.
\nAs well as training, they love to play. Buddy loves balloons and will bounce around for hours with one. He often has Abbie in fits of giggles. When it snows, Buddy tries to help Abbie build snowmen but usually ends up digging them until they fall! He doesn’t like water and will do anything to avoid puddles, but if he sees Abbie going into the sea, he always makes sure he stays with her.
\nAbbie is quiet around people, but Buddy gives her the confidence to talk. He’s brought her out of her shell and together they are amazing. He really is a special dog. Best friends for life!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buzz Lightyear","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buzz-lightyear","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/903f0c7cdb794ffc73164f45f209d1d5/f9913/buzz-light-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/903f0c7cdb794ffc73164f45f209d1d5/f836f/buzz-light-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/903f0c7cdb794ffc73164f45f209d1d5/2244e/buzz-light-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/903f0c7cdb794ffc73164f45f209d1d5/f9913/buzz-light-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I adopted Buzz Lightyear when he was a puppy. He has become an amazing therapy dog, who has helped improve my mental health. He has helped me with living on my own independently, and I couldn’t go a day without him by my side.
\n\n\nHe has improved my life drastically
\n
He loves a good run around, and if you throw a ball that’s his favourite thing to do. He loves the outside, and although it’s difficult for me to sometimes get about because of my MS, he relaxes my state of mind with that smile on his face.
\nHe has improved my life drastically and I love him so much. I can live independently and do as I wish, as I know I have him to help me along the way. He is the best dog, always friendly, energetic, full of personality and there to cheer me up when I am not in a good place. I couldn’t wish for a better companion, I adore him. Whoever you are Buzz will always greet you with a smile — he is just one happy, loving dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buster","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-buster","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/793b08a41ded9b1d6f532d5f41564865/f9913/buster-barry-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/793b08a41ded9b1d6f532d5f41564865/f836f/buster-barry-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/793b08a41ded9b1d6f532d5f41564865/2244e/buster-barry-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/793b08a41ded9b1d6f532d5f41564865/f9913/buster-barry-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Buster’s the cutest little guy. What I love most is that he has a smell – I call it a puppy smell, and I imagine it's what mothers think babies smell like. To me, that smell means love, and lots of kisses and cuddles.
\n\n\n\n\nHe knows just how cute he is and uses it!
\n
He can walk on his hind legs, he's smart and scratches at my door when he needs to go out or wants food, and he's always got me wrapped around his paw. He knows just how cute he is and uses it!
\nI suffer from anxiety and depression and taking him out for walks is the only time I really go out. He helps me get outside and feel better, and he always makes me happy. I love him so much.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cael","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cael","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8f7a51890043459cf055ceb99e989765/f9913/cael-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8f7a51890043459cf055ceb99e989765/f836f/cael-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8f7a51890043459cf055ceb99e989765/2244e/cael-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8f7a51890043459cf055ceb99e989765/f9913/cael-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cael is my rock, my best friend, my teammate and my colleague. I rehomed him from a rescue charity when he was just six months old, and now he has matured into a fantastic dog.
\nHe’s introduced me to several sports, which has helped me to make new friends and keep busy on the weekends. Cael also loves training lessons, and he’s especially good at agility. Training has become our greatest source of relaxation and entertainment, and we love attending sessions together.
\n\n\nHe comes with me to keep me company
\n
I work as a vet and whenever I’m called in out of hours, Cael comes with me to keep me company. He helps me and the rest of my colleagues to feel less stressed. He’s even been a blood donor for other dogs in need.
\nCael is my best mate, always up for an adventure with me. He’s been my rock through some pretty rough times, and if ever I’m tired or stressed, he never fails to give me a cuddle just to let me know he’s there.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Captain","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-captain","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c16afa8db6833c25fe47d2326474f585/f9913/captain-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c16afa8db6833c25fe47d2326474f585/f836f/captain-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c16afa8db6833c25fe47d2326474f585/2244e/captain-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c16afa8db6833c25fe47d2326474f585/f9913/captain-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I looked after Captain for 10 days while my friend went on holiday, and within those 10 days we built such a great friendship, in the park playing ball, taking pictures.
\nHe was more of a kitchen dog and stayed in the hallway at my friend’s, but I had him on my lap, sleeping next to me in my bed with loads of cuddles. When my friend came back and I had to give my new best friend back, I was in bits crying like a baby. That night I felt so lonely and sad. I missed the little man so much, the next day at work I had to ask how Captain was. “He’s OK but seems a tad sad,” they said.
\nApparently he started to whine and howl a lot and would not get out of his bed – he was heartbroken. The following day my friend approached me and said “would you like to have Captain back for good?” Now at this time captain was 11 years old, but those 10 days changed his life. It was a dream come true: “yes yes yes I want him!”
\nI had to wait two days before I could collect him. The days dragged but Sunday finally came. I was so excited I couldn’t wait to get him, and when he saw me he came running and jumping at me. He could not wait to come back. He’s now 16 and won’t leave my side, cuddles me all the time, and he actually smiles in his sleep. He changed my life so much, he’s my best most loyal friend. He helps with my mental health and gives me a reason to make my life better!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Norma and Cara","tags":["Funny","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cara","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/90b8e89395835fdc4c0ee0bd8e987a8b/f9913/cara-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/90b8e89395835fdc4c0ee0bd8e987a8b/f836f/cara-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/90b8e89395835fdc4c0ee0bd8e987a8b/2244e/cara-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/90b8e89395835fdc4c0ee0bd8e987a8b/f9913/cara-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe actually smiles in his sleep
\n
Cara might be an elderly lady, but she still likes to play, especially with a tennis ball or two. Though, now if you throw one for her to chase, she’ll give you a look that says ‘I am 11 you know!’.
\nShe enjoys a good cuddle and during these unsettled and sometimes lonely times, has been a much-needed companion. Cara also has free run of the house. She sleeps wherever she wants, sometimes being generous enough to allow me to share the bed or the sofa with her!
\n\n\nShe can be vocal enough to get her point across!
\n
As I live alone, her company is both a source of comfort and a welcome distraction. Her conversation skills may be lacking but believe me when I say she can be vocal enough to get her point across!
\nIn short, I would not be without her. Even on those dark, wet and windy days when non-dog owners are cuddled up on their sofas, this old lady (I’m 77 years old) is glad to toddle down the road with her fellow old girl.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cara","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cara-maria","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/18daf65b97bf41a1fc0ff42fefa21c81/f9913/cara-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/18daf65b97bf41a1fc0ff42fefa21c81/f836f/cara-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/18daf65b97bf41a1fc0ff42fefa21c81/2244e/cara-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/18daf65b97bf41a1fc0ff42fefa21c81/f9913/cara-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cara comes from Romania, which is also were I’m from. She never stops surprising me with her endless love and empathy. One of the things I admire most about her is the way she cares for others. If she finds someone in trouble, she’ll immediately alert me so I can help them. She also protects anyone or anything she deems vulnerable and is a great friend to birds and small creatures.
\n\n\nMy dog is magic
\n
She quickly adapted to living in Devon and has even joined me in working at a nursing home. Cara helps to make the residents there smile again, bringing them some joy and laughter in their darkest moments. My dog is magic, and I could never even come close to helping others in the way shedoes every day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Carmen","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-carmen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0627651bef4ba9165ced1b15fce26fd4/f9913/carmen-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0627651bef4ba9165ced1b15fce26fd4/f836f/carmen-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0627651bef4ba9165ced1b15fce26fd4/2244e/carmen-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0627651bef4ba9165ced1b15fce26fd4/f9913/carmen-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Carmen is my Canine Partner, who’s been with me for just over a year now. She’s a beautiful Golden Retriever with the longest fluffy tail.
\nMy dog helps me with tasks around the house. If I stop breathing at night, she wakes my husband by jumping on the bed, and is even trained to use an emergency phone to call an ambulance.
\n\n\nShe is extremely caring but also has a wild side
\n
She is extremely caring but also has a wild side and goes crazy on the beach. I think she’s trying to dig her way to Australia! The way she runs and plays, it’s hard to believe she’s the same calm girl that helps me through every day.
\nCarmen used to be a school reading dog, which she loved. She always looked as though she understood every word the children were saying. Now the reading classes take place over a video call, and Carmen always tries to get behind my laptop to see if the children are actually there behind the screen.
\nI don’t know how I’d have coped with lockdown without Carmen by my side. She is my angel and I love her to bits.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ceridwen","tags":["Adult","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ceridwen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0826f43cb8c2029e8eacf1b36f454d59/f9913/ceridwen-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0826f43cb8c2029e8eacf1b36f454d59/f836f/ceridwen-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0826f43cb8c2029e8eacf1b36f454d59/2244e/ceridwen-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0826f43cb8c2029e8eacf1b36f454d59/f9913/ceridwen-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ceridwen is the goodest of girls with just a hint of naughty pickle. She will greet you at the door with a massive smile and boundless energy.
\n\n\n\n\nShe has no respect for personal space
\n
Her favourite pastime is zoomies on long walks, disappearing off into the long grass, and scaring her mummy when she decides to 'not hear' her recall whistle. At home in the evenings, she has no respect for personal space. She just wants snuggles before bed and will push her sister out of the way as required.
\nCeridwen is a sensitive soul though, so she understands when you've had a bad day and will give boundless kisses until you smile – and then take her for more zoomies.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Casper","tags":["Senior","Funny","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-casper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1c5efc4706e53ef2564ba0ebbeb6f197/f9913/casper-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1c5efc4706e53ef2564ba0ebbeb6f197/f836f/casper-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1c5efc4706e53ef2564ba0ebbeb6f197/2244e/casper-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1c5efc4706e53ef2564ba0ebbeb6f197/f9913/casper-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our lovely Casper is 13 in March and this is his and our story so far. We went to meet him and his brothers and sisters and my son said which one should we choose. My son was sat on the floor and Casper had fallen asleep on his knee. We pointed out that Casper had chosen him and us.
\nA few weeks before we were due to collect Casper we got a call from his breeder saying that he had to have a little op and we didn't have to have him. My son said Casper was definitely ours.
\nCasper has some lovely traits and everyone who meets him loves him commenting on his gentle friendly manner and his waggy tail. He is very cheeky. For our doorbell we have a plug-in tester inside our house. It has a button on it and it lights up and the bell rings if pressed. When we are not watching Casper presses it with his nose. The bell rings and Casper barks as if someone is at the door and looks towards it. We go to see who is at the door and realise what our cheeky Casper has done. We look around at him and he is wagging his tail!
\nCasper's favourite place is the beach. He loves a stone being kicked for him so he can chase it, dig a hole around it and lay outstretched in the hole with the stone looking out. He makes us smile and other people on the beach.
\nI was recently unwell and sitting on the sofa. Casper gently jumped up resting his paws on my knees to comfort me. He is very caring and thoughtful. Casper is 13 next month and just as playful as he was as a puppy. He is so very special.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chance","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dog","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chance","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/75ae373247f17a995f3a956a0d3cb78d/f9913/chance-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/75ae373247f17a995f3a956a0d3cb78d/f836f/chance-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/75ae373247f17a995f3a956a0d3cb78d/2244e/chance-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/75ae373247f17a995f3a956a0d3cb78d/f9913/chance-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe is very caring and thoughtful
\n
Chance was found in a park with his four litter mates at just a day old. They were dumped in a cardboard box and left for dead!
\nA lovely member of the public brought them in to the vets where I work, and the whole team rallied together to hand-rear the five puppies. This involved lots of feeds, throughout the day and night, whilst also doing our jobs.
\n\n\nHe was found in a park with his four litter mates at just a day old
\n
It was touch and go as to whether they would survive or grow into normal dogs as they didn’t have the influence of their mum, who would normally teach them a lot of life lessons.
\nBut Chance is 11 months old now and he’s absolutely huge. He’s coming on so well with his training! He has lots of little quirks, like he has to bring something to show you when he greets you. He LOVES people and dogs, especially children, and he knows quite a few party tricks, including ‘commando’ where he crawls along the floor like an army man.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Charlie","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-charlie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/548b47fa0cd5e00939852e7ed8b70e32/f9913/charlienew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/548b47fa0cd5e00939852e7ed8b70e32/f836f/charlienew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/548b47fa0cd5e00939852e7ed8b70e32/2244e/charlienew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/548b47fa0cd5e00939852e7ed8b70e32/f9913/charlienew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Charlie came into our lives unexpectedly, after a text came through from a family member who knew how upset I was after losing my dog Bella. Lockdown was tough enough and without my sidekick, I was struggling.
\n\n\nCute and cheeky Charlie
\n
A change of circumstances meant Charlie faced the prospect of going back to the kennels, which was unideal seeing as he’d been through rescue centre twice already. He came for a visit one Friday night, just for a trial run – and he hasn't left since!
\nInitially we didn’t feel ready for another dog, but as soon as we saw him, we knew instantly that cute and cheeky Charlie was meant to be a part of our family. He’s so full of love and character, and such a happy dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Charlie","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-charlie-elizabeth","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/802c8d5cbb9b4b36c585f4432cc22d34/f9913/charlie-elizabeth-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/802c8d5cbb9b4b36c585f4432cc22d34/f836f/charlie-elizabeth-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/802c8d5cbb9b4b36c585f4432cc22d34/2244e/charlie-elizabeth-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/802c8d5cbb9b4b36c585f4432cc22d34/f9913/charlie-elizabeth-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Charlie is the happiest little Jack Russell, who just loves life. He wakes up at 6:30am every day without fail and spreads such fun from the moment he opens his eyes in the morning.
\nHe likes to dictate the routine by barking, which is his way of telling me to get a jiggle on and eat breakfast so he can get ready for his morning stroll and then settle in for his day.
\n\n\n\n\nHe spreads such fun from the moment he opens his eyes
\n
He always greets me on my return from work with a huge wagging tail and a happy yap, ready for his next stroll and his evening meal. We then move onto ball playing before settling down for a nice cuddle and telly before bed.
\nWe’re always exhausted and ready for a bedtime snuggle, and he’s a happy boy, all prepped and ready for the next day. Utter joy!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Charlie","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-charlie-kareen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2acfc0e81a1646e17e26f48fc52149bb/f9913/charlie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2acfc0e81a1646e17e26f48fc52149bb/f836f/charlie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2acfc0e81a1646e17e26f48fc52149bb/2244e/charlie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2acfc0e81a1646e17e26f48fc52149bb/f9913/charlie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Charlie helps me to keep a work life balance and to stay healthy. I work as a nurse and no matter how exhausted I am, he gives me a reason to get up and make the most of each day
\n\n\nCharlie has encouraged me to get outdoors
\n
Over lockdown, Charlie has encouraged me to get outdoors and to start growing my own vegetables. He loves it, as he gets fed fresh peas, peppers, and other scrumptious home grown produce as a treat when we are gardening. He also gives the best cuddles in the evening when we’re tired from a day of fresh air. Charlie is my best friend and I couldn’t be without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cheese","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-cheese","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/06d016be7d427fec2487c2caecfec948/f9913/cheese-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/06d016be7d427fec2487c2caecfec948/f836f/cheese-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/06d016be7d427fec2487c2caecfec948/2244e/cheese-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/06d016be7d427fec2487c2caecfec948/f9913/cheese-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We’ve had Cheese for just a few months. We got him from a rescue shelter where overnight he became completely paralysed in his back legs.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s such a fighter
\n
We discovered that a disc had moved out of place in his spine, and we didn’t know if he’d ever walk again. However, after a few months of physio and a big operation, he learned to walk again, which is amazing! He’s a bit rickety but such a fighter.
\nCheese is such an incredible dog, and we are so proud of him!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cher","tags":["Rescue Dog","Funny","Class of 19/23","Adult"],"slug":"meet-cher","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d5d8b4596c3665b43973621978f9a385/f9913/cher-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d5d8b4596c3665b43973621978f9a385/f836f/cher-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d5d8b4596c3665b43973621978f9a385/2244e/cher-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d5d8b4596c3665b43973621978f9a385/f9913/cher-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cher has been a massive influence in my life. I adopted her from Romania in the first national lockdown in May 2020. Although it took a lot of patience for her to become completely comfortable with me, the bond we have now is incredible.
\n\n\nShe provides comfort to anyone who needs it
\n
Whenever she's frightened, she seeks me for comfort, and whenever I feel ill or low, she is there ready to cuddle up to me. She has also proven that she is a brilliant therapy dog as she provides comfort to anyone who needs it. I have truly been blessed with such a caring dog.
\nEven though she is so good, she does have her cheeky quirks like sneakily calculating ways to pinch food off the table when she thinks you’re not looking, or acting cute in front of my grandad who has dementia to get as many treats as she can.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cherry","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cherry","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a5bd24f39ef8740dcf69cbe8578fe8fc/f9913/cherry-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a5bd24f39ef8740dcf69cbe8578fe8fc/f836f/cherry-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a5bd24f39ef8740dcf69cbe8578fe8fc/2244e/cherry-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a5bd24f39ef8740dcf69cbe8578fe8fc/f9913/cherry-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cherry has been my shadow, my support and my will to keep going. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in May and started chemotherapy in June. Cherry instinctively knew something was not right with me, and that I was not my normal self.
\n\n\nShe is always giving me cuddles and kisses
\n
She took it upon herself to always stay by my side, even when I went to bed she would fall asleep resting her head on me as if to watch over me.
\nCherry is so loving and she is always giving me cuddles and kisses on my bad days. She won’t even let my other Collie come near me, always pushing him out of the way even though he is 20lbs heavier! She is my emotional support, and without her I don’t know how I would cope with my ongoing treatment.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chester","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chester","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7053491e58f1c297ab7047be0619cae5/f9913/chester-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7053491e58f1c297ab7047be0619cae5/f836f/chester-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7053491e58f1c297ab7047be0619cae5/2244e/chester-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7053491e58f1c297ab7047be0619cae5/f9913/chester-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Chester is a two-year-old Pomsky. My husband is a doctor and I’m a nurse,and we decided to get Chester when I was having a particularly hard time at work.We had recently moved to Wales and taking Chester out for walks encouraged me to make new friends with other dog owners.
\n\n\nHe melts our stress away
\n
I really believe Chester’s constant happiness and endless love saved me from a dark place. After a long day at work, he’ll always greet us with so much excitement. Both my husband and I feel as though he melts our\nstress away. Our mental wellbeing has improved greatly since having Chester, and so has our fitness, as he loves to be outside and run around.
\nOne of Chester’s favourite hobbies is helping out in the garden. I’ve started creating new boarders and as soon as I get my spade out, he gets his paws ready and digs wherever you’re digging. He’s truly wonderful.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chester","tags":["Puppy","Support Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-chester-sarah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6fa2f591bd5de51127455e40f9e09919/f9913/chester-sarah-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6fa2f591bd5de51127455e40f9e09919/f836f/chester-sarah-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/6fa2f591bd5de51127455e40f9e09919/2244e/chester-sarah-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/6fa2f591bd5de51127455e40f9e09919/f9913/chester-sarah-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Chester is more than just a pet; he's a constant source of joy and positivity in my life. His gentle nature and boundless energy bring warmth to every room he enters. No matter how tough a day has been, his wagging tail and eager eyes are enough to lift my spirits.
\nPerhaps one of the quirkiest and most delightful things about him is his love for music, particularly when I play the harmonica. The moment he hears the first note, he can’t help but join in, singing along with the tune. His ‘singing’ is a mix of howls and soft barks, perfectly timed with the melody. It’s as if he’s pouring his heart into the song, adding his own unique voice to the music.
\n\n\n\n\nHis ‘singing’ is a mix of howls and soft barks, perfectly timed with the melody
\n
Chester’s presence is incredibly calming. On stressful days, just sitting next to him and stroking his fur is enough to bring me a sense of peace and grounding. He seems to instinctively know when I need comfort, often resting his head on my lap and looking up with those understanding eyes.
\nIn many ways, he is a role model. His capacity to love unconditionally, his zest for life, and his ability to find joy in the simplest things are qualities I strive to emulate. He has taught me the value of patience, the importance of living in the moment, and the power of a positive outlook.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chewy","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chewy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2d1cb25bbfef7add48eb6e375942dfb6/f9913/chewy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2d1cb25bbfef7add48eb6e375942dfb6/f836f/chewy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2d1cb25bbfef7add48eb6e375942dfb6/2244e/chewy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2d1cb25bbfef7add48eb6e375942dfb6/f9913/chewy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Chewy came into my life a year ago, back when I really didn’t think I had the room for another pet. At the time, we already had two elderly dogs who have sadly now departed, and if it wasn’t for Chewy, I don’t know how I would have coped.
\n\n\nHe is adorable and such a character
\n
I fell in love with Chewy as soon as I saw him. He is adorable and such a character that it didn’t take long before my partner was smitten too. Chewy is very stubborn (apparently this is a common trait amongst bulldogs), and he sulks if you ask him to do something he doesn’t want to do, like go out for a walk when it’s raining. He has a thing about cardboard boxes and loves to tear them to shreds. He is very greedy and will go to any lengths to claim food, even if it’s not something he actually likes!
\nChewy is big and solid but still believes he is a lap dog, so loves to curl up on my knee in the evening. He really is a wonderful addition to our family, and I couldn’t have asked for a better lockdown buddy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chino","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chino","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/28f881075ea9a5f9f93de79e0bcf0a55/f9913/chino-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/28f881075ea9a5f9f93de79e0bcf0a55/f836f/chino-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/28f881075ea9a5f9f93de79e0bcf0a55/2244e/chino-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/28f881075ea9a5f9f93de79e0bcf0a55/f9913/chino-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Chino came into my life when I really needed him. He made life worth living. He's my shadow, always where I am. But he has cancer. So, he’s in the vet twice a week at the moment for blood tests and chemo.
\n\n\n\n\nHe made life worth living
\n
The vet says he is an amazing boy. He lets them do whatever they need to and still wags his tail and is pleased to see them. He's my brave boy. He still loves life and is having fun. He still shows his hatred of the postman. And I caught him sitting ON the dining room table last week – something he hasn't done since he was a puppy.
\nWe're on borrowed time as we know remission is unlikely to last long once chemo finishes in April, but we are trying to make the most of our time together. I can't imagine life without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chester","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chester-ezza","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/dee3e4201c92151e49d3741cfda0d00a/f9913/chester-ezza-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dee3e4201c92151e49d3741cfda0d00a/f836f/chester-ezza-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/dee3e4201c92151e49d3741cfda0d00a/2244e/chester-ezza-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/dee3e4201c92151e49d3741cfda0d00a/f9913/chester-ezza-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I was looking online to find volunteering vacancies in local animal shelters when I saw Chester’s photo on the Irlam rescue centre website. I was surprised to see such a young dog in a shelter already.
\nIt turns out that he was lockdown dog – someone bought him, played with him as a puppy during lockdown and then dropped him off to the shelter when he became an inconvenience. His behavioural and health problems indicated physical abuse too. I couldn’t help it, I had to adopt him, even though I wasn’t really looking to get a dog in the first place.
\n\n\nI couldn’t help it, I had to adopt him
\n
From the minute he got home, he did everything he could to fit in and thank me. He would come and lick my hand after every meal, he would jump around happily every time I said ‘walkies’, and he’d give me little kisses when he was happy. He also learnt to be quiet when I worked from home. Now he will just chill until 5pm without disturbing me, and appear when I finish work to remind me he’s ready for fun.
\nA couple of weeks after I got him, his harness broke when we were on a walk and he started running towards the street off the leash. I thought ‘that’s it, he’s gone’, as that was a very busy street and I couldn’t chase after him because I had injured my knee recently.
\nI stood there not knowing what to do as we had only known each other for a few weeks back then. But then something magic happened – he turned around and came back to me. He sat down, looked at me and stayed there still until I got him back on the leash. I knew then that it was meant to be.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chloe","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chloe","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/47c8d6cf1fd830ac4d95010a8c791e82/f9913/chloe-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/47c8d6cf1fd830ac4d95010a8c791e82/f836f/chloe-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/47c8d6cf1fd830ac4d95010a8c791e82/2244e/chloe-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/47c8d6cf1fd830ac4d95010a8c791e82/f9913/chloe-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Chloe lights up my day every day. When I come home from work she’s so happy to see me, it’s almost as though I’ve been gone for months. She’s a very clever dog, so we have to watch what we say around her – for example, she used to get so excited every time she heard us use the word ‘chicken’, we now have to refer to it as ‘cluck’!
\n\n\nA little ray of sunshine
\n
One of her favourite things to do is chase the wildlife living in the garden – that is, when she isn’t playing with her extensive collection of toys. She adores her little stuffed bear, which she’s had since she was tiny. Chloe also loves to snuggle, so every night at around 7pm, she’ll sit and nudge her blanket until you move it onto the sofa for her to cosy up under!
\nI couldn’t imagine my life without my beautiful dog – she is truly a little ray of sunshine and joy. Even though she’s nearly nine years old now, she’s still a lively little puppy at heart.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chloe","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chloe-linda","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4cae3ae245d7d74829825a85afd03959/f9913/chloe-linda-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4cae3ae245d7d74829825a85afd03959/f836f/chloe-linda-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4cae3ae245d7d74829825a85afd03959/2244e/chloe-linda-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4cae3ae245d7d74829825a85afd03959/f9913/chloe-linda-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Chloe’s a wee beagle. She’s so loving with all other dogs and children, and she loves her walks. When she was younger, she had to get pins in her back legs, and now she has a small tumour which has to be checked, but the vet has said not to worry as it’s only small.
\n\n\n\n\nShe loves everyone unconditionally
\n
She loves everyone unconditionally, and enjoys stealing our socks, which is always so funny. Hopefully we’ll have her for a good few years yet, as I just love her to pieces.
\nShe also sleeps on my pillow, next to my head at night, which I love. She’s such an adorable wee cutie, my angel Chloe.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Chubbs","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-chubbs","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3713ecec16f8dc795927bfbf57da8895/f9913/chubbs-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3713ecec16f8dc795927bfbf57da8895/f836f/chubbs-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3713ecec16f8dc795927bfbf57da8895/2244e/chubbs-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3713ecec16f8dc795927bfbf57da8895/f9913/chubbs-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Chubbs is a black and white rescue dog, a Staffy Collie cross, who originally hailed from Ireland. His Mum was a stray, who was taken into MADRA, with a litter of eight puppies in August 2019.
\nChubbs was originally rehomed to a lovely family but sadly their circumstances changed and a few months later they had to give him back. He was then transferred to Birmingham Dogs Home in Wolverhampton for rehoming in the UK, and his siblings went to homes in Galway, the Midlands and Dublin.
\nOur daughter works at BDH Wolverhampton and we’d spent a long time deciding whether getting a dog was right for us. One day we went to visit her at work and the rest, as they say, is history!
\n\n\nHe’s made our world complete
\n
There was this beautiful floof of a pup, sat looking goofy in his window. We walked past him several times and each time he caught our eye. We looked at lots of residents that day, but it was Chubbs that tugged our heartstrings the most. So, a week later, we drove home with our new family member.
\nI was intrigued to know more about him, and through the power of Facebook, I was also able to trace some of his siblings. We still exchange messages with their owners today!
\nHe was called Chubbs as a pup, and though we toyed with other names, it didn’t seem quite right to change. He’s VERY food oriented, and as I always say, ‘Chubbs by name and nature’.
\nI said that Chubbs is a ‘rescue’, but what I didn’t make clear is that he also rescued us. He’s brought so much love and happiness into our lives. We now have a purpose – a reason to get up, a reason to go out in all weathers, a reason to explore new dog-friendly places and a reason to rush home as soon as we can for more love, fun and adventure. He’s made our world complete.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cisa","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-cisa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBAwX/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAZstjy8Gk96YHsK//8QAGxAAAgMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAERIDIUH/2gAIAQEAAQUCc5mlrYEbVesO5yC4EUT/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAdEAABAgcAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATECEBEhIjJx/9oACAEBAAY/AtUoLgMMhecPRj//xAAbEAADAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMRBhcf/aAAgBAQABPyFUr0a6YDTosEGxXXwnGIKWfCoPjkQRKf/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQGNdA/8QAFxEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAQEf/aAAgBAwEBPxAJl//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABERD/2gAIAQIBAT8Qbhd//8QAHRABAQEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAIUExUXGB0f/aAAgBAQABPxDmt8ClSfuECejUH61CcHgOjIjJKrwwCGxxe8ogiXguh6zZxEvjRqB1v//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3ee5eb991d6bb139916aae70079352f6/f9913/cisa-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3ee5eb991d6bb139916aae70079352f6/f836f/cisa-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/3ee5eb991d6bb139916aae70079352f6/2244e/cisa-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/3ee5eb991d6bb139916aae70079352f6/f9913/cisa-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This is a photo of Cisa when she was found by a young Romanian girl called Narcisa at about four weeks old. At first, Narcisa thought she was a rat until she stopped to check, and found this wet, bedraggled pup all alone with no sign of a mum.
\nNarcisa took her to the local rescue centre where luckily, they had a mum with two puppies who accepted her and fed her.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s very affectionate and loves people – especially children
\n
We got Cisa at five months old and she’s been an absolute delight. She’s clean and not a big chewer, but oh boy, is she an independent little madam. She’s also very affectionate and loves people – especially children – but tends to avoid other dogs except the ones she adores (mostly boy dogs!).
\nWe still keep in touch with Narcisa and Maria at the rescue centre by sending regular photo updates.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cisco","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cisco","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/16ab3227a50affd2088bc90d498091ab/f9913/cisco-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/16ab3227a50affd2088bc90d498091ab/f836f/cisco-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/16ab3227a50affd2088bc90d498091ab/2244e/cisco-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/16ab3227a50affd2088bc90d498091ab/f9913/cisco-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cisco is an Ibizan Hound cross. He was in a rescue centre in Spain, where he was handed in by a hunter, and then he was moved here to the UK. He was very fearful to begin with, and he still often gets unsettled by people he doesn't know.
\n\n\n\n\nIt has been an honour to build a bond with Cisco
\n
It has been an honour to build a bond with Cisco and gain his trust over the two years since we adopted him. He loves cuddles and lying against us. His personality has blossomed, and he’s become a goofy character at times. He pads his paws on the spot when he’s excited and can appear like a cartoon character.
\nHe still finds the world scary sometimes, but he has shown so much resilience. He’s also always been a gentle boy and never reacted in an aggressive way, even when he’s frightened.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Claude","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-claude","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEDBAIF/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHTlmoeki9Ss0VCv//EABoQAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAwAEEhT/2gAIAQEAAQUCNCazZGazg1FG9khOryts0ZtjySbfJMb/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEj/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAgEBPwEf/8QAHRAAAgIDAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECERIhMSJCYf/aAAgBAQAGPwLGMbpbH62iWxb8T50yi6FceHGacj//xAAdEAEAAgMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRYZHh/9oACAEBAAE/ITu8IIgdqi6exE8pesPY3Ejf7RdV5RazAa+GOVEbQbvDFlfRP//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQYyAB/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREg/9oACAEDAQE/ECDH/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAESD/2gAIAQIBAT8QY//EACEQAQEAAgECBwAAAAAAAAAAAAERACFBcYExUZGxwdHh/9oACAEBAAE/EFQ1aJxZes9c0cnCAWj3zw+tDoBhDOOu0g85PEXHyC/mSkEArAb184jJQJXsTKRiitcRglsn6z//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1d351d5f711c339dabd1dadf055a47ba/f9913/claude-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1d351d5f711c339dabd1dadf055a47ba/f836f/claude-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1d351d5f711c339dabd1dadf055a47ba/2244e/claude-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1d351d5f711c339dabd1dadf055a47ba/f9913/claude-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Claude has a lovely spoilt life because he’s had so many illnesses since he was a pup, including parvovirus, reactions to injections, SRMA, IMPA, allergies, and various infections caused by the steroid treatment for his immune system illnesses. On top of that, he’s even had a dew claw injury and removal, and now IBS.
\nDespite all this, Claude is the happiest and loveliest dog, who always cheers us up and keeps us entertained. He’s a sock and underwear thief and such a character.
\nHe also rules the roost, so he does what he wants, when he wants, whether that’s waking up in the morning, or spreading out on the sofa, beds and anywhere else. He also likes to help with gardening, hoovering and any cleaning!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cleo","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cleo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5b4b3c91ebcab249380e8b77f1eed838/f9913/cleo-header-one.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5b4b3c91ebcab249380e8b77f1eed838/f836f/cleo-header-one.jpg 200w,\n/static/5b4b3c91ebcab249380e8b77f1eed838/2244e/cleo-header-one.jpg 400w,\n/static/5b4b3c91ebcab249380e8b77f1eed838/f9913/cleo-header-one.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe does what he wants, when he wants
\n
Cleo arrived on my doorstep as her owner had become ill and couldn’t keep her. She was referred to as ‘number five’, because she was the fifth dog in the house. It didn’t take long before she made friends with all the others and became a member of our family.
\n\n\nShe’s helped me make new friends
\n
She was so caring and spent a lot of time with my lodger, who was unwell.Cleo encouraged him to get out, and the pair of them would go for gentle walks together. Now, she walks with me every day when I go litter picking down by the river. Everyone we meet stops to talk to her, so she’s helped me make new friends, which I’ve especially appreciated throughout the last year.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Clyde","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23","Senior"],"slug":"meet-clyde","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6f969b9749eaf9c3e608bf7bd4964010/9a128/clyde-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6f969b9749eaf9c3e608bf7bd4964010/f836f/clyde-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6f969b9749eaf9c3e608bf7bd4964010/2244e/clyde-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6f969b9749eaf9c3e608bf7bd4964010/9a128/clyde-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Clyde is 12 years old, but he’s been part of our family ever since he was a little ball of fur. My dad passed away nearly 2 years ago now, and Clyde has been the most loyal and loving companion for my mum. I don’t know what she’d do without him.
\nHe loves the rain, playing with his favourite ball and eating yummy snacks. He has arthritis in his legs and so he falls down sometimes, but while his body may be getting old, he still has the mind of a puppy. He’s constantly wagging his tail and ready to play, he’s such a happy boy.
\n\n\nHe’s such a happy boy
\n
Clyde enjoys nothing more than stealing your spot on the sofa as soon as you get up. If you leave even for a second, he’ll be lying there waiting for you when you come back. He’s also not keen on getting his photo taken, though he’s really photogenic, and we all utterly adore him. I think he still has the same puppy dog eyes we fell in love with all those years ago.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Coco","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-coco","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8a403e52272e62307b9fe88767caa62c/f9913/coco-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8a403e52272e62307b9fe88767caa62c/f836f/coco-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8a403e52272e62307b9fe88767caa62c/2244e/coco-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8a403e52272e62307b9fe88767caa62c/f9913/coco-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Coco was bought for my son James. James was an only child and Coco soon became his best friend. James looked after Coco and walked her everyday (I know kids always say they will then lose interest but James never did).
\nJames really came out of his shell since getting Coco and became more confident. James started joining after school clubs and joined the Sea Cadets, and when he left school he joined the Royal Navy and is a serving sailor who has just been deployed for his first Christmas away.
\n\n\nCoco’s tail never stops wagging
\n
Coco misses him very much when he goes, and needs lots of TLC. When James is home on leave they still share that special bond and Coco’s tail never stops wagging. Coco gave James the confidence to start to do things; he realised that he could take care of a dog and therefore he could do things he would never have tried.
\nFor all Coco loves rolling in smelly things, barks at the wind and farts a lot, she is a big part of our family and helped to shape my sons teenage and early adult years.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Coco","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-coco","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/093ff8a03bb620c721a0a4326472839b/f9913/coco-daniel-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/093ff8a03bb620c721a0a4326472839b/f836f/coco-daniel-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/093ff8a03bb620c721a0a4326472839b/2244e/coco-daniel-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/093ff8a03bb620c721a0a4326472839b/f9913/coco-daniel-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I am a serving police officer, and have been for the last five years. I recently suffered a breakup with a long-term partner and went through the torrid time of organising the separation and dividing assets. Once this was completed, I looked to adopt a stray puppy, a puppy that I could come home to and who would give a bit of companionship.
\n\n\nAll she asks for in return is a bit of cuddling on the sofa and some attention
\n
I found Coco online and couldn’t resist applying for her having heard how she was found hung up in a bag in a tree and just abandoned. I was successful with my application and this little bundle of fluff came into my life. She’s been so good with everything that’s been thrown at her – her training is going well, she walks on the lead nicely, she listens to commands, and all she asks for in return is a bit of cuddling on the sofa and some attention.
\nShe is the same colours as the rugby team I play for, and is a firm club favourite whenever I play, finding herself on the sideline distracting people from the game. I’ve attached the photo that shows her favourite place in the house, a little sun trap that overlooks the street we live on, where I will always find her when she isn’t snoozing away on the sofa.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Coco","tags":["Adult","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-coco-irene","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ac81b3fabbfe6864f365f8baee298d62/f9913/coco-irene-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ac81b3fabbfe6864f365f8baee298d62/f836f/coco-irene-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ac81b3fabbfe6864f365f8baee298d62/2244e/coco-irene-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ac81b3fabbfe6864f365f8baee298d62/f9913/coco-irene-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I found Coco completely by accident. I went to see some puppies with my sister and nieces one day and came out with a puppy of my own. I hadn’t even really thought much about getting a dog, but I got lucky as Coco is the funniest, kindest and cheekiest dog ever!
\nShe can understand commands in three languages: English, Spanish and Italian. But she chooses when to pay attention to them, no matter the language. She doesn’t do many tricks but has some funny habits.
\n\n\nShe can understand commands in three languages
\n
In the evenings, she always expects her teeth to be cleaned after her last walk of the day. When you tell her 'teeth time', she jumps on the sofa and waits patiently while we clean her teeth, put her paw balm on and brush her fur. She is a very good walker, but when she gets tired, she finds the closest bus stop and sits down, expecting to jump on the next bus – she always needs to have the window seat!
\nCoco makes everyone's lives better. My mum was never a fan of dogs, but she is now totally besotted and makes amazing outfits for Coco (she is the most stylish dog we know). Although getting Coco wasn’t a premeditated decision, I have zero regrets and am glad I had that moment of madness.
\nSomehow, I also think it was meant to be, as my dad always loved dogs and had many while growing up. But when he married my mum, he had to give them up. He died of Covid in 2020, and in some ways, I think Coco is the dog he was always meant to have.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Coco","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-coco-ursula","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9e280cff131b130fad238dad7ae60e32/f9913/coco-ursula-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9e280cff131b130fad238dad7ae60e32/f836f/coco-ursula-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9e280cff131b130fad238dad7ae60e32/2244e/coco-ursula-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9e280cff131b130fad238dad7ae60e32/f9913/coco-ursula-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rehomed Coco when she was only 15 weeks old. At the time, she was extremely fearful and was in a bad way behaviourally.
\nWithin a few weeks however, she started to trust us and became very in tune with my illness – lying beside me and alerting my husband whenever I was having an episode.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s my unofficial therapy dog
\n
Now, six years later, I can groom her, clip her claws and clean her ears and eyes. She trusts me when we visit the vets, which used to be traumatic for her. She loves her food and snuggles and despite still having some fear within her, she’s my unofficial therapy dog.
\nI love her to the moon and back.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cody","tags":["Senior","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cody","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/148876e0a9f2bc37f4aabbccfb75a29b/f9913/cody-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/148876e0a9f2bc37f4aabbccfb75a29b/f836f/cody-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/148876e0a9f2bc37f4aabbccfb75a29b/2244e/cody-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/148876e0a9f2bc37f4aabbccfb75a29b/f9913/cody-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I was only 20 when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, which was a really tough period of my life. At the time, I told my parents how much I’d love to have a dog to keep me company, but I never thought they’d actually agree to get one.
\nAfter returning home from a trip one day, I went upstairs to chat to my mum and found the sweetest, most cuddly looking dog sat on her bed! That was the first time I met Cody and I haven’t looked back since.
\n\n\nI haven’t looked back since
\n
At first, getting woken up at all hours of the night and having to share my bed with an ever-growing Rottweiler was a bit of a shock. But Cody truly saw me through the darkest time of my life and for that I’ll be forever grateful. He has helped me in ways I can’t even put into words.
\nEight years later and our bond is still going strong. Now, he’s much bigger and manages to scare away most delivery drivers and all the postmen – but really, he’s a big softie at heart. All he wants is a belly rub and for you to hold is paw.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Coll","tags":["Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-coll","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f3bbca83ff823c261efee81a1285cf80/f9913/coll-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f3bbca83ff823c261efee81a1285cf80/f836f/coll-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f3bbca83ff823c261efee81a1285cf80/2244e/coll-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f3bbca83ff823c261efee81a1285cf80/f9913/coll-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Coll from our local animal shelter almost six years ago. When we got him, I was at a low point, having just lost my dad and undergone surgery. I wasn’t able to work, and I was struggling with feelings of boredom and depression.
\n\n\nColl came into our lives just at the right time
\n
Coll came into our lives at just the right time. He gave us a reason to get up and out every day. He motivates us and makes us laugh, and we’re so very proud of how far he’s come since we adopted him. It’s not always been easy but he’s a quick learner who’s eager to please, and always gives us lots of cuddles. Coll is our best friend who we love unconditionally.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cookie","tags":["Puppy","Family","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-cookie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2667bb47689129a64b4476105ea7a1af/f9913/cookie-gemma-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2667bb47689129a64b4476105ea7a1af/f836f/cookie-gemma-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2667bb47689129a64b4476105ea7a1af/2244e/cookie-gemma-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2667bb47689129a64b4476105ea7a1af/f9913/cookie-gemma-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cookie has completely changed our lives for the better.
\nWe welcomed him into our family in September as we have a son with some additional needs and a very anxious daughter. We felt that Cookie would be a positive addition to the family, but I never could’ve predicted how much of a difference he would make!
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s made such a difference
\n
My son who was dependent on his pushchair now walks everywhere and Cookie knows how to make us all smile and laugh on a daily basis. He is very cheeky, but you can’t help but forgive him, particularly when he’s constantly got a waggy tail!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cooper","tags":["Adorable","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cooper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3ffb755f001c5a4f22eb4fdfbe0d17ae/f9913/cooper-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3ffb755f001c5a4f22eb4fdfbe0d17ae/f836f/cooper-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3ffb755f001c5a4f22eb4fdfbe0d17ae/2244e/cooper-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3ffb755f001c5a4f22eb4fdfbe0d17ae/f9913/cooper-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cooper came into our lives in December 2019. He is the most laid-back but equally energetic dog I've ever met. A lot of Cooper's development time was spent during lockdown, which was wonderful. He was my little working companion – he would sit on my knee and nap, and now, even though he's almost fully grown, he still does the same! He is a pleasure. He helps to wake up my two young sons every morning. I say: \"Go and get the boys\", and he runs upstairs and licks them until they get up!
\n\n\nHe makes us all smile, every single day
\n
One day, we were practicing recall while on a walk with Cooper. It was going great until he spotted a squirrel and did a complete U-turn and chased after it! Off into the bushes he went. They lead into the woods, so we were all shouting him back, but he didn't come back. The kids were distraught. I retraced the whole of our walk, shouting for him, asking passers-by if they’d seen him. No joy. I headed back to the field and told the kids to go home and wait on the step. I carried on the search, as did my husband, and were both becoming increasingly worried.
\nMy husband called me 30 minutes later. I'd still not found him, nor had he. We both carried on searching, but it was getting dark. Another 20 minutes later my husband called saying, \"He's home, he's with the boys\". Cooper had come tottering back home, covered in all kinds, with a look on his face as if to say, \"Where did you go?\". We were over-joyed. We couldn't even be mad at him because of this look he had on his face. He makes us all smile, every single day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Cooper","tags":["Adult","Small","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-cooper-hollie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ab796e13c7757b7e51d49982b39ced47/f9913/cooper-hollie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ab796e13c7757b7e51d49982b39ced47/f836f/cooper-hollie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ab796e13c7757b7e51d49982b39ced47/2244e/cooper-hollie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ab796e13c7757b7e51d49982b39ced47/f9913/cooper-hollie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Cooper is everything to us. He came into our lives when we were travelling in Canada and got stuck in a small prairie town during Covid. The lady who ran the local dump (it was so remote there was no bin service!) used to have at least 15 dogs, three cats and a horse. They would run around her farm property and none of them were neutered. So, naturally, when she offered us this little golden mutt (a Chihuahua Jack Russell type), we just said we’d make it work.
\nA few months later, our immigration fell through, and we had to leave the country. We were devastated. It was something we’d worked towards for so long and leaving was so hard. When we came back, Cooper was immediately our source of comfort and familiarity during a time of culture shock and grieving.
\nHe came from such a specific part of our journey and now he is always with us to symbolise that. He helps us through sad times and knows exactly what to do to cheer us up. He’s the happiest dog of all time (people say it regularly!), so having him around is a blessing.
\nHe has quite a strong set of adorable quirks too. He was born with a natural mohawk that never went away, which is always a great conversation starter with other dog owners. He also has the longest and loudest yawns known to man. For a tiny pup, he’s so full of life!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Crissy","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-crissy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/80158e23ae4439fd91f866fac99f0fc8/f9913/crissy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/80158e23ae4439fd91f866fac99f0fc8/f836f/crissy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/80158e23ae4439fd91f866fac99f0fc8/2244e/crissy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/80158e23ae4439fd91f866fac99f0fc8/f9913/crissy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe’s the happiest dog of all time
\n
I started volunteering in Spain at a rescue six years ago. One day, a skinny, 11-month-old Great Pyrenees cross was brought in.
\nHer previous family had mistreated her, and she was so scared. As we carried her into her kennel, she was clinging to us for dear life and trembling. I couldn't bear to leave her in there, so I took her into my cabin where I was staying.
\nShe settled onto my bed but didn't take her eyes off me. I popped into the shower and, when I looked down, I realised that Crissy had climbed into the cubicle with me and was just sitting there, looking up at me. In that moment I knew I had to adopt her.
\n\n\nShe’s a big dog, but so gentle
\n
I brought her to the UK, and she's not left my side since then. At 50kg, she's a big dog, but so gentle. She is wonderful with children. She loves her food, so once she's back from a walk she talks to us until she gets her food. She loves smaller dogs and protects my partner’s little dog when we go for walks.
\nSince getting Crissy, I've ended up setting up my own rescue with a Dutch lady in Spain. We rehome dogs across Europe and this year alone we’ve found forever homes for 20 dogs in the UK. I’ve also rescued another dog, Timmy, who Crissy welcomed with open paws.
\nShe's my best friend and has been a constant in my life. People say she's lucky to have me as I spoil her, but I'm the lucky one as she brings such love and happiness to our family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/51f557f0b47ce6ca3f80ac6a888958cc/f9913/daisynew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/51f557f0b47ce6ca3f80ac6a888958cc/f836f/daisynew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/51f557f0b47ce6ca3f80ac6a888958cc/2244e/daisynew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/51f557f0b47ce6ca3f80ac6a888958cc/f9913/daisynew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy is a Jack Russell and a total bundle of joy. She makes me laugh out loud many times a day. Her favourite trick is early in the morning – as soon as she knows we are awake she sneaks out of her bed searching for socks to steal. She then rushes outside and takes the socks for a tour of the garden. She then comes in and sits by the cupboard where her treats are waiting for an exchange!
\n\n\nShe makes me laugh out loud many times a day
\n
Beside socks she steals pencils, letters and we have to warn workmen that she will steal tools. In the evening she climbs on my knee so she can be nursed like a baby.
\nDaisy loves Tasha, our 17-year-old cat, and is always following her round the garden, and if she’s not on my knee she’s next to Tasha on the settee. I’m truly blessed to have a lovely little dog called Daisy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-bridget","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3c6e4b0793b34e1a9f0b65c98ee1e494/f9913/daisy-bridget-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3c6e4b0793b34e1a9f0b65c98ee1e494/f836f/daisy-bridget-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3c6e4b0793b34e1a9f0b65c98ee1e494/2244e/daisy-bridget-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3c6e4b0793b34e1a9f0b65c98ee1e494/f9913/daisy-bridget-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy came to us when we were just retired. We used to have a dog when our children were small and I was at home with them, so we knew how much joy they could bring to our lives.
\nTaking Daisy out for walks has helped us to meet lots of new people. She gets walked twice daily, which forces us to keep active and enjoy some fresh air every day, even when it’s cold and wet.
\n\n\nHelped us to meet lots of new people
\n
Now our grandchildren are going to universities across the country and our children are busy working, we don’t see so much of them. Daisy fills this void and gives us lots of cuddles and love. She loves riding in cars, especially our Morris 1000! She also makes us laugh endlessly. It’s hard to imagine how we managed for all those years without a dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-cath","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/284bca417716ba9af06678871ffd1862/f9913/daisy-cath-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/284bca417716ba9af06678871ffd1862/f836f/daisy-cath-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/284bca417716ba9af06678871ffd1862/2244e/daisy-cath-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/284bca417716ba9af06678871ffd1862/f9913/daisy-cath-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy was 15 months old when she came to me from the Border Collie Trust. She had clearly never had the opportunity to interact with other dogs or spend time in the outside world. We had to start with basics such as walking. Her paws were very soft like a puppy’s, so we had to take it very slowly. All the short, regular walks also helped me lose weight and brought down my high blood pressure.
\nDog training classes followed, and this gave Daisy the opportunity to be with other dogs and learn how to interact with them. When we were completing our assessments, the assessor commented on the obvious bond that we have. He said she never took her eyes off me wherever I was, always looking for my next command.
\n\n\nShe is always smiling and makes everyone around her smile
\n
Daisy is extremely friendly with everyone she meets. She instinctively knows how to moderate her behaviour with different people. If it’s someone in a wheelchair, she is gentle, but if it's someone who wants to run around then she joins in. My dad has had two recent hospital stays and staff were more than happy for her to visit. She was quite happy to ‘share the love’ with other patients and staff.
\nDaisy loves nothing more than to dig, whether in water, mud, leaves or snow. Tennis balls are her specialist subject. We have them scattered everywhere in various states of disarray! My vets call Daisy ‘smiler’, and for very good reason. She is always smiling and makes everyone around her smile. It's difficult not to when you have such a happy, loving dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-ethel","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1686a58f391227437d8ccbe598912e16/f9913/daisy-ethel-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1686a58f391227437d8ccbe598912e16/f836f/daisy-ethel-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1686a58f391227437d8ccbe598912e16/2244e/daisy-ethel-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1686a58f391227437d8ccbe598912e16/f9913/daisy-ethel-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy is a toy poodle, and a Dogs Trust girl. I adopted her in October 2020, when she was 11 months old. She hadn't had the best start in life, but since then, my shy little girl has blossomed into a beautiful, confident, intelligent little dog who just loves life.
\nOnce she’d settled into her new life, we attended our local dog obedience classes and Daisy excelled herself, passing her beginners tests with ease. She was awarded her medal, rosette and a lovely crystal plaque for ‘Outstanding Achievement’ in December 2021. In the summer of 2022, she passed her outdoor training test, for which she also received a certificate. Daisy really enjoyed her classes and in December 2022, she passed her intermediate tests and again was awarded a medal and rosette.
\n\n\n\n\nDaisy was born to make people smile
\n
One of Daisy's greatest loves is people, so we offered our services at a local adult day care centre, which caters for older folks who attend one or two days per week. They enjoy lunch and companionship in a lovely centre, which provides them with all sorts of entertainment. Most of the elderly visitors once had a pet in their lives but are now too frail to care for one.
\nThey’ve really bonded with Daisy who’s very happy to visit, being the well-behaved young lady she is. She sits on their knees and enjoys cuddles. She was even invited to their Halloween and Christmas parties!
\nSometimes the centre has entertainers and Daisy loves these events. At one of them, another day care centre had come along to enjoy the fun. And when they saw how much the elderly folks enjoyed petting Daisy, we were asked if we could visit their centre too. Daisy was born to make people smile, and she does exactly that with the members and staff at the centre.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Adult","Small","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-fiona","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7bd2cd204f599f95c87056dc2338898f/f9913/daisy-fiona-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7bd2cd204f599f95c87056dc2338898f/f836f/daisy-fiona-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7bd2cd204f599f95c87056dc2338898f/2244e/daisy-fiona-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7bd2cd204f599f95c87056dc2338898f/f9913/daisy-fiona-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy is a typical Jack Russell, or not so! She’s half human, or more. We have had her since a tiny pup with a squished nose resembling a guinea pig, only smaller. She has grown into the most enchanting, loving dog, who’s very much part of our family.
\nShe loves tummy rubs, ‘special biscuits’ aka treats, and sleeping on our bed (she hardly moves but occasionally creeps up for a cuddle). She patrols our garden with aplomb, chasing pigeons and crows away and protecting our hedgehogs so gently. Rats? Well, she routes them out fearlessly and fast and brings her catch into the house with great pride.
\n\n\nShe has grown into the most enchanting, loving dog
\n
Daisy is an absolute darling. She is hyper intelligent and knows many words, including the obvious ‘walkies’, as well as ‘greenhouse’, ‘summerhouse’ and ‘orange ball’. The orange ball is a practice soft cricket ball that’s her absolute favourite and she fetches it endlessly, until I'm exhausted and she's still going!
\nSadly, she's developed a heart murmur, so exercise is now a little restricted and she sleeps a lot. We hope to get her a Jack Russell puppy next spring. She is so friendly with other dogs, and I think it would be a real bonus in her life and might very slightly help our grieving when she passes. Daisy is simply the best!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-gilli","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/71cea6782a3f9ec3ec7d4b880f6dbfb7/f9913/daisy-gilli-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/71cea6782a3f9ec3ec7d4b880f6dbfb7/f836f/daisy-gilli-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/71cea6782a3f9ec3ec7d4b880f6dbfb7/2244e/daisy-gilli-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/71cea6782a3f9ec3ec7d4b880f6dbfb7/f9913/daisy-gilli-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy is so brave. She has a neurological condition that makes her extremely wobbly on her back legs. But she just gets on with life, always happy and wagging her tail. If she falls over, she just gets up and carries on with what she was doing. She goes to hydrotherapy once a week and loves her therapist.
\n\n\n\n\nYou can’t feel down when Daisy is around
\n
You can’t feel down when Daisy is around as she’s just consistently happy. She makes me smile every day and has really helped me over the years, especially when I was recovering from radiotherapy and major surgery for oral cancer, where half of my tongue had to be removed and rebuilt.
\nDaisy didn’t care what I looked or sounded like when I was getting my new tongue round speaking clearly. She is simply my joy, along with her 9-year-old Labrador brother Kobi and our five cats. They all keep me on my toes and constantly smiling. Our dancing wobbly dog is simply amazing.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Small","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-kate","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a76147e22847bcd316ca4ec7ac2bcb0e/f9913/daisy-kate-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a76147e22847bcd316ca4ec7ac2bcb0e/f836f/daisy-kate-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a76147e22847bcd316ca4ec7ac2bcb0e/2244e/daisy-kate-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a76147e22847bcd316ca4ec7ac2bcb0e/f9913/daisy-kate-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"For my whole life, I wanted a dog but, despite my protests, my parents never gave in. When I went to visit Daisy, the first thing she did was climb onto me and steal my keys. The breeder and I spent ages trying to get them off her but, being the cheeky madam she is, she was not giving in! In that moment I knew the little monster was mine.
\n\n\nI’ve never met anyone who hasn’t fallen for her charm
\n
Daisy is the most loving dog, although she does have an independent streak. She absolutely loves other people – I’ve never met anyone who hasn’t fallen for her charm. When I worked in a girl’s boarding house with children from across the world, she was a lot better at soothing them when they were sad than I was.
\nDaisy has no dramatic story. She doesn’t know many tricks and she isn’t the most obedient (unless very good treats are on offer!) but I love her to pieces and can’t imagine life without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy Mae","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-rosemary","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/88be0d8f9bb7ae2c9c4f9a8fbb7d6be0/f9913/daisy-rosemary-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/88be0d8f9bb7ae2c9c4f9a8fbb7d6be0/f836f/daisy-rosemary-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/88be0d8f9bb7ae2c9c4f9a8fbb7d6be0/2244e/daisy-rosemary-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/88be0d8f9bb7ae2c9c4f9a8fbb7d6be0/f9913/daisy-rosemary-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Daisy Mae lost her owner a few months ago. He had dementia, so she’s now overweight due to overfeeding and lack of exercise. Her owner’s son found me through a rescue centre, and she came straight to me.
\n\n\n\n\nShe's a failed foster, as I'm adopting her!
\n
She's been through a lot, but she has a lovely temperament and is ever so good. She's my fourth dog, as my last furbaby died nearly two years ago from serious heart disease, which left me heartbroken. But Daisy Mae has mended my heart and brought me such joy.
\nShe's a great companion, and she’s a Staffy, so she’s full of happy wags and lots of kisses and smiles. I live on my own, so she also helps with any feelings of loneliness. And now, she's a failed foster, as I'm adopting her!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Daisy","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-daisy-serena","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQL/xAAXAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQID/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHzOducziNXDKQr/8QAGhAAAwADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxEhEv/aAAgBAQABBQJ02NNz1lVUvix+TZrYz//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEUH/2gAIAQIBAT8Bylf/xAAcEAACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQEhICIyQVH/2gAIAQEABj8CSH4UaxSJuX2cow//xAAbEAEAAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRgf/aAAgBAQABPyHsL5Hv0p1HdhH7Z0qNaA08bJaCriFnMwaon//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQn+DC/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEREP/aAAgBAwEBPxCle//EABkRAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBExQf/aAAgBAgEBPxBLQscj/8QAHxABAAIBAwUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFRYUFxgbHx/9oACAEBAAE/ELkprrBzE0YujPfc4izFPcQfdNS35Kkn7NAs87QXQzlIR56pNQe7Mo4YNyf/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/eab78e1e05886288b8aff4018f51bdfe/f9913/daisy-serena-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/eab78e1e05886288b8aff4018f51bdfe/f836f/daisy-serena-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/eab78e1e05886288b8aff4018f51bdfe/2244e/daisy-serena-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/eab78e1e05886288b8aff4018f51bdfe/f9913/daisy-serena-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Daisy! She is my absolute everything. Daisy is at the grand old age of 12 years, she is a Lhasa Apso and is quite possibly the funniest character you’ll meet. She helped me through a very rough part of my life which makes her an incredible pup.
\nI was experiencing over six years of struggling with infertility, Daisy has been there through it all with me and my highs and lows in life. She can calm my thoughts, make me feel I have purpose, love unconditionally and just know when to snuggle. She has a huge personality and is everybody’s friend, dog or human!
\n\n\n\n\nQuite possibly the funniest character you’ll meet
\n
As she’s older, one of my favourite characteristics is how she still gets the zoomies when she is excited. She will dart around everywhere bouncing off the walls twisting and turning not even knowing her own speed. She is also the boss! Whenever she has played with others she has been the one who seems more dominant. Even if she’s faced with a Great Dane she thinks she’s a tiger, however she always wins over your heart. Daisy is the most loyal pup I have ever encountered and I hope I have very many more years to enjoy her love.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dali","tags":["Senior","Small","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dali","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUCBP/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABxUj0BT3Mw9+DFkG//8QAHBAAAgIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxETIjEz/9oACAEBAAEFAqerjVW0JOafurNs6njFjuxP/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASD/2gAIAQMBAT8BI//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQ/9oACAECAQE/ASE//8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECERAhQWFx/9oACAEBAAY/AqZp0x2yPpJWusJjlzj/xAAaEAADAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMVGB/9oACAEBAAE/IZXtGOH8kkoNOCSlDDmHjhWbd1nJWp0WWxsI8P/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQqxfC/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASD/2gAIAQMBAT8QAx//xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAhMf/aAAgBAgEBPxBqGYj/xAAbEAEBAQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhQWFxMf/aAAgBAQABPxDgOkoqDxdHJV5XfzURSR8zpCWKPafueMKQkYOu45QEoq+6AMGD7c1oW4cSZq8Hf//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1416296046e89cdf4d02bec299afbcdf/f9913/dali-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1416296046e89cdf4d02bec299afbcdf/f836f/dali-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1416296046e89cdf4d02bec299afbcdf/2244e/dali-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1416296046e89cdf4d02bec299afbcdf/f9913/dali-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"As someone who has suffered with social anxiety for many years, Dali has always been there for me, whether he’s accompanying me to shops, or sitting with me when I'm tearful.
\nDali suffers from bad arthritis in his legs, so he has to travel by buggy now. But no matter what, he’s always a happy waggy dog who never leaves my side.
\nDali has an amazing personality and one of his favourite things to do is sing to music! He howls away to his favourite singers, Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift and Little Mix. He’s the best little thing to ever happen to me.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Danny","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-danny","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4d471b35ee74586c561bcb24ea131ab4/08bc8/danny-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4d471b35ee74586c561bcb24ea131ab4/f836f/danny-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4d471b35ee74586c561bcb24ea131ab4/2244e/danny-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4d471b35ee74586c561bcb24ea131ab4/08bc8/danny-header.jpg 660w","sizes":"(max-width: 660px) 100vw, 660px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe’s the best little thing to ever happen to me
\n
Danny is a German Shorthaired Pointer from Cyprus, where he was found in a kill shelter. He was looked after in a rescue shelter then flown to the UK and sent to a foster home. A few months later, he was adopted.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s very fit and active for his age
\n
But after nine months, his owners’ circumstances changed, and they had to make the hard decision to find him another home. This is where we came in. We adopted Danny the day before lockdown, and he joined our other two GSPs.
\nHe’s a very vocal boy, and certainly lets us know when he wants something, whether it’s his meals or his tennis ball, his most favourite thing ever! He’s very fit and active for his age, and he loves his walks with his fur brother and sister – another Cyprus rescue who we adopted last May.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dash","tags":["Family","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dash","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/37897424fd4ae96356d52d168775eb1c/f9913/dash-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/37897424fd4ae96356d52d168775eb1c/f836f/dash-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/37897424fd4ae96356d52d168775eb1c/2244e/dash-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/37897424fd4ae96356d52d168775eb1c/f9913/dash-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\nHe 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.
\n\n\nHe gives my days a structure and fills them with light
\n
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.
\nDash 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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Thelma","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-debbie-thelma","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/deacf81ea13d2447af68f7dbd815acef/f9913/thelma-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/deacf81ea13d2447af68f7dbd815acef/f836f/thelma-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/deacf81ea13d2447af68f7dbd815acef/2244e/thelma-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/deacf81ea13d2447af68f7dbd815acef/f9913/thelma-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Thelma is the happiest, most caring canine. She's training to be my assistance dog and is doing amazingly. When I’m out, she alerts me if I’m having a panic attack.
\n\n\nI wouldn’t be where I am now without her
\n
We've had her since she was a crazy puppy, back when she loved nothing more than bouncing off the sofa. With all her training, she's become muchcalmer, and always helps everyone we meet.
\nWhen we’re out, Thelma takes her working life very seriously, but she still has a silly side. She’s always zooming around the garden and is obsessed with food. I wouldn’t be where I am now without her. She’s my rock.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Darcy","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-darcy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d48468ff6f3b2c075b0dc553f7c4578d/f9913/darcy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d48468ff6f3b2c075b0dc553f7c4578d/f836f/darcy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d48468ff6f3b2c075b0dc553f7c4578d/2244e/darcy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d48468ff6f3b2c075b0dc553f7c4578d/f9913/darcy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When we first got Darcy, my family was in turmoil. My partner and I had both been made redundant and I was pregnant with our son. It felt as though we had lost everything, and I was feeling very low. Things got so bad that I even stopped leaving the house, and experienced high stress levels nearly every day.
\n\n\nShe instantly became his loyal protector
\n
With the very last of my redundancy pay, we decided to get Darcy – and that was the best decision we could have made. Looking after Darcy gave me the boost I truly needed to feel like myself again. She had to be taken for lots of walks, which helped me to leave the house for fresh air regularly. Looking after her also meant I had a loving companion to keep me company when my husband was out.
\nDarcy really did pull me out of my darkest hour, and when our son was born, she instantly became his loyal protector. Many said we were insane to have a dog and a baby together, but the pair of them have grown up with each other (they’re only six months apart in age) and have formed the strongest bond.
\nNow we’re in a better place, we’re able to spoil Darcy with everything she deserves – which is the world!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dennis","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dennis","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f0e097568d1902ae2c60c69efac6421e/f9913/dennis-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f0e097568d1902ae2c60c69efac6421e/f836f/dennis-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f0e097568d1902ae2c60c69efac6421e/2244e/dennis-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f0e097568d1902ae2c60c69efac6421e/f9913/dennis-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"After many years of persuasion, my husband finally agreed to get a dog, which was great news for my son and daughter who had always wanted one.
\nNot long after, I found Dennis, an adorable Border Terrier. It felt like it wasmeant to be. He has been the best thing to happen to our family since thechildren were born. Dennis has helped us get through lockdown, and to deal with our grief, as my mother-in-law sadly passed away not long before we brought him home.
\n\n\nDennis has helped us get through lockdown
\n
He’s also been my daughter’s home-school buddy and has boosted her confidence when she’s had down days. Our adorable pup has even brought a smile to my fathers-in-law’s face, for which we’ll be forever grateful.
\nAll that being said, it’s surprisingly my husband who is Dennis’s biggest fan!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Denham","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-denham","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cc4972eadb6b3b04a5f03a3f686cf203/f9913/denham-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cc4972eadb6b3b04a5f03a3f686cf203/f836f/denham-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cc4972eadb6b3b04a5f03a3f686cf203/2244e/denham-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cc4972eadb6b3b04a5f03a3f686cf203/f9913/denham-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Denham is an English Springer Spaniel. We like to joke that he only operates at two speeds – full steam ahead and zero power!
\nHe is such a loving dog, always there for a cuddle and forever brightening up our day. We just can’t imagine being without him. One of his favourite pastimes is pestering the local wildlife. He likes to bark at the squirrels, and every time he sees a pheasant he’s so sure that he’ll be able to catch it, even though he’s yet to succeed! It makes me so happy that nothing seems to deter him from trying and giving it his all.
\n\n\nWe call him our little shadow
\n
Denham loves to spend time with us, which is why we call him our little shadow. He’s really enjoying the fact that I’m working at home now, and always snuggles up to me to keep my feet warm. He also likes to sit on the kitchen window ledge, where he’ll stretch out and keep an eye on the world outside.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dexter","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dexter","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ed32180b8b39bbdca0303a2c54234bcb/f9913/dexter-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ed32180b8b39bbdca0303a2c54234bcb/f836f/dexter-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ed32180b8b39bbdca0303a2c54234bcb/2244e/dexter-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ed32180b8b39bbdca0303a2c54234bcb/f9913/dexter-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"After losing my previous Labrador after 13 and a half years, life was far too quiet. Enter Dexter to shake it up again – a loveable, cheeky, friendly puppy who’s now seven months old now. He's very loyal, loves to please and will do anything for a hot dog sausage. He loves to play ball, chase the birds, collect sticks and run in the fields. Then its home for a bath and some chill out time on his sun lounger. With Dexter, life is now rich again and far from quiet!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Denzil","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-denzil","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/db39b2a35f6aee61285fc0e63108f71e/f9913/denzil-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/db39b2a35f6aee61285fc0e63108f71e/f836f/denzil-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/db39b2a35f6aee61285fc0e63108f71e/2244e/denzil-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/db39b2a35f6aee61285fc0e63108f71e/f9913/denzil-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"With Dexter, life is rich again and far from quiet!
\n
Denzil is a Morkie and we bought him from a registered kennel in Wales. His story is very special as he is the only dog to survive severe GME (Meningitis). He has had a research paper done on him by Liverpool University, veterinary hospital.
\nProblems started just after his first booster at our vets. We thought he was just having a reaction to his injections, then a few days after finishing his medication, he collapsed in our garden! We took him to our vet straight away and luckily one of the vets was from Germany and said that she thought it could be meningitis. They referred us to Liverpool university Wraith animal hospital.
\n\n\nHis story is very special
\n
What ensued was 18 months of IV treatment, 32 tablets a day and five 10-hour chemotherapy sessions. I researched the best foods to give him, and I also used aromatherapy massage to help ease the muscles in his spine and he started to respond. Finally, at nearly 3 years old he was given the all clear! Denzil now has his own Facebook page to raise awareness of this terrible disease and to encourage vets to refer immediately.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Diesel","tags":["Support Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-diesel","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3ff91d0ad11753ff8a812865b15eb0f9/f9913/diesel-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3ff91d0ad11753ff8a812865b15eb0f9/f836f/diesel-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3ff91d0ad11753ff8a812865b15eb0f9/2244e/diesel-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3ff91d0ad11753ff8a812865b15eb0f9/f9913/diesel-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Diesel is the best dog ever. A few years back, I was really suffering with depression. On one particularly bad day I was in the house on my own feeling very low, and he noticed this and would not leave my side. He has always picked up when I don't feel well physically or mentally, and will never leave my side. It’s like he has to keep an eye on me!
\nHe loves everyone he meets, always throwing himself on the floor at people’s feet. Whenever we go out he always has to have two tennis balls, as he won’t give the ball back unless he has another one to hold!
\n\n\nWill never leave my side
\n
He knows his toys by the name, of \"MyMine\", which was started when he was a puppy and has just stuck. As soon as we say ‘go get your \"MyMine\"’ he will run off and come back with something, but it won't always be a toy – sometimes he’ll run off and then come back all excited with nothing in his mouth at all, just what looks like a huge grin!
\nOur neighbours will often give him a biscuit over the fence, and as soon as he hears them outside, he climbs into one of the flowerpots to make himself taller to make sure they see him. He is caring, loving and a bundle of fun, and everyone that meets him loves him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Diesel","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-diesel-lynda","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB2Y+RNQhgEzBP/8QAHBAAAQUAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxESIjJC/9oACAEBAAEFAitOskchyRsvbS48n//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhAS/9oACAEDAQE/AYmRV//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8BZo5//8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAEAIhMZH/2gAIAQEABj8CmSTonfsbDm+101//xAAdEAEAAwACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRcaHB/9oACAEBAAE/IW+o23BRpy5QxxJYqs4IoLsjkr9jvMKdMQpeMRE/SLvn3P/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQozd//8QAGBEAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERECH/2gAIAQMBAT8QjtHDwj//xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAQMf/aAAgBAgEBPxB9EDi3/8QAHhABAAICAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhADFBUYGRseH/2gAIAQEAAT8QDNu9YAgbjKHL6MkNohHjDsJY4iKkipn5kxnaqWjfbxhmwjOrDRkJI2b/ADCNcCmjfWIMWlDbP//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a069a9fa116835cf8949f70845cbb548/f9913/diesel-lynda-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a069a9fa116835cf8949f70845cbb548/f836f/diesel-lynda-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a069a9fa116835cf8949f70845cbb548/2244e/diesel-lynda-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a069a9fa116835cf8949f70845cbb548/f9913/diesel-lynda-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Diesel is a rescue who we’ve had for just over a year. He helps me with my depression, and he’s the reason I get up in the morning.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s the reason I get up in the morning
\n
He’s so loving, and he loves nothing more than cuddling up on the sofa. He also enjoys learning new tricks, playing with his toys, and unwrapping his gifts at Christmas, or on his Gotcha Day (the day we got him from the rescue).
\nWhenever he goes out for a walk, he loves to say ‘hi’ to other people and dogs. My life wouldn’t be the same without Diesel.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dobby","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dobby","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9ae33c871ebc0b62c145893881c6dda0/f9913/dobby-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9ae33c871ebc0b62c145893881c6dda0/f836f/dobby-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9ae33c871ebc0b62c145893881c6dda0/2244e/dobby-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9ae33c871ebc0b62c145893881c6dda0/f9913/dobby-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\n\n\nHe enjoys stealing people’s socks
\n
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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dexter","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dexter-lucy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAgP/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAbs6jxy8pya0gMgr/8QAHRAAAgIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDEhMABBEhIv/aAAgBAQABBQJyb5TKQdNawTGj8FnUFt15jTsf/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEf/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASD/2gAIAQIBAT8BI//EAB0QAAIBBAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQISISIQMqH/2gAIAQEABj8C0KsW2+naB2vYbcZMCKY4/8QAGxABAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWH/2gAIAQEAAT8hthBuvyZDRd8xUUD5ucW40Zg9b24WpE9PZa3ZF1esOr2s/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABC7KL7/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABECH/2gAIAQMBAT8QTIz/xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEDH/2gAIAQIBAT8QKoRf/8QAHRABAAICAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWFxkf/aAAgBAQABPxA6WBcX6r8ghEWE0ydncsshyxhohwAjsh3rfMO2w2DKmuMZnOZAIPKiu4sFyXTWkY1psfYS3Wpz7P/Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/eaa838166b39929d5ff6976ff4dad4e2/f9913/dexter-lucy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/eaa838166b39929d5ff6976ff4dad4e2/f836f/dexter-lucy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/eaa838166b39929d5ff6976ff4dad4e2/2244e/dexter-lucy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/eaa838166b39929d5ff6976ff4dad4e2/f9913/dexter-lucy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Dexter is a master of destruction. We’ve dubbed him with the nickname ‘Choppers McGee’, and his vet and the nurses call him ‘Dexter Naughty Pants’!
\nYou may be wondering how he’s earnt himself this reputation. Well, at just 14 weeks old, he managed to eat the earpiece from our son’s headset and ended up in emergency surgery. It was about the size of a ring donut, so it’s quite incredible that he swallowed it in the first place. On that day, the CBBC crew from the TV show ‘Pet’s Factor’ happened to be filming. After hearing about Dexter’s antics, they decided to run a story on him – they even turned him into a cartoon character called ‘DJ Rex’!
\n\n\nThey even turned him into a cartoon character
\n
Regretfully, the experience hasn’t made him any more sensible. Watching his own exploits on the TV seems only to have motivated him further, and recently he tried upgrading to swallowing a pair of socks. Of course, it didn’t work and he soon returned them, covered in slobber. He seems to have developed a fondness for shoes in general, and now enjoys chewing flip flops as well as the occasional nibble on the garden hose.
\nHe may be naughty, but Dexter is also incredibly smart, and has learnt to open the patio doors from both the inside and the outside. This doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll come indoors though when asked though – he’ll usually stay outside until we lure him in with a treat!
\nDexter is a fabulous, goofy, one-of-a-kind dog who is a very much-loved addition to our family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dolly","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-dolly","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d8433ad09fe88fb08ad817a3861f6f82/f9913/dolly-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d8433ad09fe88fb08ad817a3861f6f82/f836f/dolly-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/d8433ad09fe88fb08ad817a3861f6f82/2244e/dolly-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/d8433ad09fe88fb08ad817a3861f6f82/f9913/dolly-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Dolly is a rescue dog from Merlin's Haven Rescue in Cyprus. I got her in 2020, at a time when my mental health wasn’t great, as my boyfriend had suddenly passed away.
\nHis dad gave me some money from his pension, and since he was a lover of dogs and always tried to help the homeless, rescuing a stray dog seemed like a good way of spending it.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s such a lovely dog
\n
When Dolly first arrived, she was very timid and nervous after giving birth to two litters of puppies. It took a long time for her to settle in, but she’s such a lovely dog and has given me a reason to get up in the mornings.
\nI spend most Saturdays on long country walks with her and my friend (sometimes my teenage daughter, too – if she's out of bed!). Dolly is now a Velcro dog, and very rarely lets me out of her sight. She’s very relaxed for most of the day, but loves walkies and squirrel chasing!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dotty","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dotty","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2c3c9048d6edd01efbc437f675ef7765/f9913/dotty-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2c3c9048d6edd01efbc437f675ef7765/f836f/dotty-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2c3c9048d6edd01efbc437f675ef7765/2244e/dotty-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2c3c9048d6edd01efbc437f675ef7765/f9913/dotty-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Dotty back in January as a rescue dog. Little did we know what an important little dog she would be.
\n\n\nIn the morning you wake up to Dotty on your head!
\n
I started to suffer from anxiety and was signed off work for four weeks and Dotty gave me the strength to go out and walk her. Then during lockdown she has been our rock. Our son is autistic and she helps him a lot.
\nDotty is a sausage dog crossed with a Jack Russell so is full of energy, jumps runs and keeps us on our feet. Dotty does not like to sleep on her own so spends the night at the bottom of our bed but in the morning you wake up to Dotty on your head! Her favourite things to do are play with her toys and snuggle up to you.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dotty and Mo","tags":["Family","Class of 19/23","Senior"],"slug":"meet-dotty-and-mo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/091fb63a9549a360210db3ffd354a4d0/f9913/dotty-mo-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/091fb63a9549a360210db3ffd354a4d0/f836f/dotty-mo-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/091fb63a9549a360210db3ffd354a4d0/2244e/dotty-mo-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/091fb63a9549a360210db3ffd354a4d0/f9913/dotty-mo-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We have had Dotty the Cockerpoo since she was eight weeks old, and I can honestly say she has made me laugh daily for 11 years! She is a great guard dog, barking at any potential murderer that might walk past the house (who'd have known little old ladies and postmen were such a threat) even though she would only lick them to death. One tickle of the tummy and she is anyone's! If you approach her when she's lay down she raises her paws for a tummy tickle.
\nShe used to be so fast! I'd let her off her lead and off she'd go! Twice she has walked away from the house unseen and taken herself to the field where I walk her! She's old and poorly now, and is very slow and less agile. But she still 'smiles' when I get in from work and puts her arms round my neck for a cuddle. Her favourite thing is - food!
\n\n\nThey complete our family
\n
Dreading when she can no longer have a good life we recently rescued a Romanian dog, Mo. He is so naughty but so cute! He is the only dog Dotty has ever had to compete with, and she is usually jealous of other dogs getting my attention – but not with Mo! He is the cuddliest dog and sits so close to you, if not on you, the whole time. They play together so it's nice company for Dot, and she keeps Mo in his place.
\nA house is not a home without a dog. When they went to be groomed the house was eerily silent and felt wrong. They complete our family and provide good therapy for my daughter who suffers from extreme anxiety. Dogs give unconditional love and their faces are so expressive. They know if they're being told off, they know what to do to get a treat. They are bonkers, like us, and I would not be without my special little guys.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Doris","tags":["Class of 19/23","Funny","Support Dogs","Adult"],"slug":"meet-doris","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/68fd0b7339077708857b12be3e530631/f9913/doris-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/68fd0b7339077708857b12be3e530631/f836f/doris-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/68fd0b7339077708857b12be3e530631/2244e/doris-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/68fd0b7339077708857b12be3e530631/f9913/doris-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Doris is my rock. She is the four-legged love of my life and my absolute best friend. She was by my side through my depression and just understood – she knew I needed her.
\nShe was, and still is, my reason to get out the house each day, even though she is a complete princess and HATES wind and rain. She’s the reason I laugh and smile so much.
\n\n\nShe is the four-legged love of my life
\n
She’s also a complete sass queen and will always refuse to leave the beach. She’ll walk round any puddle and go to extreme lengths to avoid mud, but will charge straight into the sea!
\nDoris will shred a tennis ball in seconds, but will treasure any cuddly toy for months – or years. Her favourite game is chase but, if no one’s around to play, she’ll take a toy to the top of the stairs and launch it down by herself on repeat!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Doug","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-doug","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9e9b23799bd239ea34847a729707cf81/f9913/doug-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9e9b23799bd239ea34847a729707cf81/f836f/doug-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/9e9b23799bd239ea34847a729707cf81/2244e/doug-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/9e9b23799bd239ea34847a729707cf81/f9913/doug-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When Doug broke his leg on the Isle of Mull last July, there were no vets on the island to help him. We begged our way onto a ferry to Oban where the vet sedated and x-rayed him. The next day, we travelled to the West Midlands for him to have surgery.
\n\n\n\n\nThrough it all, he still wagged his tail
\n
Now, after a year of rehab, hydrotherapy and lead walks (which he hates), Doug is near enough back to his old crazy Springer self.
\nHe’s amazing and through it all, he still wagged his tail!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dougie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dougie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8ebfe3bf3f3412a6cb8604f54e6356aa/f9913/dougie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8ebfe3bf3f3412a6cb8604f54e6356aa/f836f/dougie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8ebfe3bf3f3412a6cb8604f54e6356aa/2244e/dougie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8ebfe3bf3f3412a6cb8604f54e6356aa/f9913/dougie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I’d wanted a puppy for as long as I could remember, but it was never the right time for me to get one. Then one day, Dougie the rescue dog bounded into my life, and the rest is history.
\nHe was actually six years old when I first met him, but his playful nature made it feel as though he was a lot younger. He really is a dream, because I get to enjoy all the good parts about having an energetic dog, without the work of looking after a young puppy!
\n\n\nIt’s been so lovely to watch how happy he’s become
\n
Dougie was pretty stressed when we first brought him home, but he’s settled in well over time. He had never been taken out much before, and so we got to do a lot of ‘firsts’ with him. So far, we’ve taken him to the beach, the river, on holiday and even on a boat. It’s been so lovely to watch how happy he’s become.
\nHis favourite place is by far the beach. He enjoys nothing more than rolling around in the sand, so much so that we’ve even got him his own sandpit to play in at home. He’s not so sure about water and tends to sit and bark at the sea – though I think he’s making progress, and I’m sure that soon he’ll want to splash around and go for a paddle.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dougie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dougie-sophie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/98568a4ca348c49feb48a8d198993614/9a128/dougie-sophie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/98568a4ca348c49feb48a8d198993614/f836f/dougie-sophie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/98568a4ca348c49feb48a8d198993614/2244e/dougie-sophie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/98568a4ca348c49feb48a8d198993614/9a128/dougie-sophie-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Dougie is a young pup in an old dog’s body. If he doesn’t get his way, he goes in a huff and digs up his bed. He also sits and frowns if we stay up later than his bedtime, at which point he’ll try and nudge us upstairs. Then, he’ll follow us into our bedroom and make sure we’re tucked in on our own sides of the bed, before finally retiring to his own!
\n\n\nHe goes in a huff
\n
He may have some funny habits, but Dougie is the friendliest dog you’ll ever meet. There’s a stray cat that lives in our area and the two of them have become best friends, which is great as it means we can keep an eye on her and gain her trust.
\nDougie can be best described as a good friend, a loyal pup and a massive bed head!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dovah","tags":["Rescue Dog","Brave & Loyal","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dovah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f1edb26e627df340d1855344a3ff96a8/f9913/dovah-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f1edb26e627df340d1855344a3ff96a8/f836f/dovah-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f1edb26e627df340d1855344a3ff96a8/2244e/dovah-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f1edb26e627df340d1855344a3ff96a8/f9913/dovah-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Dovah inspires me to live every day to its fullest. When she was six, I was asked to foster her for one month by her current owner who was going out of the country to study. I met Dovah once and her absolute love for life and instant desire to sit on my lap made me happily agree to help out.
\nOne month quickly turned into six with little to no contact from her owner. By this point, myself and the cats living in the house had bonded deeply with Dovah. We were offered the chance to adopt her by the uninterested owner and, after we ecstatically agreed, the owner went back on her word and came and collected our sweet Dovah. She lived in a flat and Dovah was left for long hours daily, or sent to different dog sitters.
\n\n\nDovah inspires me to live every day to its fullest
\n
Eventually, after two years, I got the message I had always hoped for – Dovah was finally being rehomed. Right away I went to get her. By this time, we also had a second dog called Kleo. Although the cats came running to Dovah as soon as they saw her, she had returned to us with a whole host of behavioural issues. Adding to that, Kleo was in pain while waiting for surgery on her cruciate ligaments. Unfortunately, the girls would fight and we all had to work very hard to make things work out.
\nFast forward to just days before Dovah’s 10th birthday and, after several surgeries for mammary cancer, she is fully bonded with Kleo in her forever home.
\nDespite this journey, every day Dovah gets up full of life. She loves harder, making you dedicate time in your day to cuddles and opening your heart to her. She runs out on the hill with more love for the outdoors than any dog or person I have ever met. She inspires me to live in the moment and keep my chin up.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Drax","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-drax","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/388c1033f8b76b73b7c7c721304f4200/f9913/drax-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/388c1033f8b76b73b7c7c721304f4200/f836f/drax-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/388c1033f8b76b73b7c7c721304f4200/2244e/drax-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/388c1033f8b76b73b7c7c721304f4200/f9913/drax-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We think our dog Drax may actually be a small bear. He’s huge, huggable and absolutely ridiculous. We rescued him from being put to sleep just two days before Christmas, and it’s still impossible to believe no one wanted him!
\n\n\nHe’s actually the clumsiest animal
\n
Drax look majestic and is very handsome, but he’s also extremely clumsy. He knocks over pretty much anything in his path, will break through closed doors if you shut him in a room even for just a minute, and always shouts at you if he doesn’t agree with what you’re doing. But Drax is also the most loveable dog I’ve ever met – and that’s saying something, because as fosterers, we’ve encountered a lot.
\nWe may have rescued Drax, but really, I think he rescued us more.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Drift","tags":["Adorable","Family","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-drift","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9e61b519b0d98ff820bd0b55b76b306e/f9913/drift-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9e61b519b0d98ff820bd0b55b76b306e/f836f/drift-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9e61b519b0d98ff820bd0b55b76b306e/2244e/drift-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9e61b519b0d98ff820bd0b55b76b306e/f9913/drift-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We had deliberated for years over getting a dog. Was it the right time? Were the children the right age? Would our cats cope? What kind of dog would suit our lifestyle?
\n\n\nWe keep wondering why we never had a dog before
\n
Then a litter of Dalmatian puppies was born on the farm next door and the time was right. And... Dalmation puppies... NEXT DOOR! Drift joined our family in December as our first ever dog and it’s like he has always been here. We keep wondering why we never had a dog before.
\nHe has been a joy to train, and we are so proud of the calm and confident young dog he is becoming. Evenings are spent blissfully entangled with spotty limbs on the sofa, and we can't wait for a summer of adventures with him in our camper van.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dru","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dru","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ac886afceece6b70745d84277259bfb7/f9913/dru-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ac886afceece6b70745d84277259bfb7/f836f/dru-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ac886afceece6b70745d84277259bfb7/2244e/dru-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ac886afceece6b70745d84277259bfb7/f9913/dru-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Dru was a rescue dog. Like so many, she had a sad beginning and was frightened of the world around her. It took her a while to trust us, and she still will only eat if we are with her, so she feels safe.
\nIn 2019, I became very unwell and Dru changed. She was a lot more cuddly and spent a lot of time with me, even though she usually prefers the men in the house. It turned out I was VERY ill. So, just before the world went into lockdown, I had to have a kidney removed and a course of treatment for cancer.
\n\n\n\n\nI believe angels don't have wings, they have a tail and a wet nose
\n
I wasn’t allowed to go anywhere as I was so unwell and vulnerable, and no one else could come in. I spent so much time indoors, only seeing outside through windows. But Dru never left my side, except for her twice daily walks and the odd wee break, or to bark at anyone that seemed to come too near her mum. I suffered badly both physically and mentally but bit by bit I got stronger, largely thanks to my husband and my girl Dru.
\nWhen I was allowed out, I didn't want to leave as I'd been shut away for so long. One day Dru was getting ready for her walk with my husband, and he said, ‘should we take mum?’ Dru ran up to me and sat down unmoving, waiting for me. It was only a small walk, but it was as much a part of my recovery as any medication.
\nWe all know how wonderful dogs are, but sometimes I believe angels don't have wings, they have a tail and a wet nose.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dudley","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-dudley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/eb16e17858c85c14953e8a320411c8f6/f9913/dudley-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/eb16e17858c85c14953e8a320411c8f6/f836f/dudley-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/eb16e17858c85c14953e8a320411c8f6/2244e/dudley-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/eb16e17858c85c14953e8a320411c8f6/f9913/dudley-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We have owned two Golden Retrievers over the last 30 years, but sadly our last beautiful boy died in November. For the first time in all these years, we were faced with a home with no dog – and the loss hit us hard.
\nSlowly the conversations began: should we think about getting a puppy? We agreed that it wouldn’t be a good idea and yet we started looking at puppies online. Before we knew it, we were suddenly puppy owners again. You think you could never love the same way again, but the first time we met Dudley, it was pure love.
\n29 February 2020 was D-day – Dudley day. And home he came. He was a beautiful, brave, bundle of fluff. For the next few weeks, he started to meet the extended family – including Rory, our beautiful grandchild, and Cooper his new doggy bestie. We had just established a routine when things changed.
\n\n\nWe were isolated but not alone
\n
Coronavirus and lockdown became the new reality. There we were isolated. No more family, cuddles with the children, eating together, laughing together, being together. We were isolated but not alone.
\nAmidst the surreal, there was Dudley. Beautiful, innocent, wide-eyed Dudley. Dudley who is growing bigger and bolder every day and who believes he rules the roost. In truth, he probably does!
\nWe chose Dudley because there was a connection, we couldn’t say what at the time, but now we think we know. It feels like he was coming to us for reason. None of us knew what was to come and somehow, he came to fill the void. This year will be defined in history by the coronavirus, but for us, it will be defined by the year Dudley came to save us.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dudley","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dudley-kareen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMCBAX/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAejEo536TmMygGugx//EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAyECERIT/9oACAEBAAEFAspM+I5K9B2jobpGz//EABoRAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhEQEjL/2gAIAQMBAT8BUVVGguXj/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIBEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8BadHv/8QAGRAAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAAESEx/9oACAEBAAY/AppsThVMr//EAB0QAQACAQUBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQVFxgcH/2gAIAQEAAT8hutvkYTxGczfZ+RKkC+FaVCwS9YDqau0ET//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQTz8+/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQUbH/2gAIAQMBAT8QchLMEf/EABoRAAEFAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEhQVH/2gAIAQIBAT8QWwS4a3//xAAbEAEBAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMVFBcf/aAAgBAQABPxA6gKbeI9uVRKU6HwPMBREYdU9yh2JETFFQNJavzHVTmJMMTQ7+/cb0YJmaAz//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8c0be621d7b2d8aa4224104588f38fb2/f9913/dudley-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8c0be621d7b2d8aa4224104588f38fb2/f836f/dudley-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8c0be621d7b2d8aa4224104588f38fb2/2244e/dudley-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8c0be621d7b2d8aa4224104588f38fb2/f9913/dudley-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Dudley is a Hungarian Vizsla who was born with a deformed front leg. By the time he arrived at the rescue centre it couldn’t be corrected, and so he underwent amputation surgery at just ten weeks old. I decided to foster him on the night of his surgery and subsequently adopted him permanently
\n\n\nAlways shows his loving, caring and empathetic side
\n
We knew this lad was special, but he has really shone during lockdown. Last year, we had to shield to protect our son Jack who has Downs Syndrome and is waiting for a new heart valve. Our crazy, rambunctious pup always shows his loving, caring and empathic side whenever he's withhis best friend Jack, but he stayed especially close to him during this tough time.
\nDudley’s antics make us laugh and his cuddles warm our hearts. He’s helped us to stay positive and has fast become the centre of our family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dudley","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dudley-caroline","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/da14933704dbb70f9e493254da698d02/f9913/dudley-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/da14933704dbb70f9e493254da698d02/f836f/dudley-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/da14933704dbb70f9e493254da698d02/2244e/dudley-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/da14933704dbb70f9e493254da698d02/f9913/dudley-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Dudley is clever, funny and loves nothing more than to be in the garden with me. Once, he tried to open my green house to run away with the plant pots, which have no chance of surviving if he gets his paws on them.He also has a habit of chewing all my flower heads off!
\n\n\nRun away with the plant pots
\n
He is very affectionate and loves to go on walks, especially with my grandsons, who he is very gentle with. He also enjoys stealing laundry from the washing machine and using it as a chew toy. Dudley has captured our hearts, and always makes everyone around him smile.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Duke","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-duke","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBBf/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGOnahkSE6EpNVAf//EABkQAQEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAwAhEf/aAAgBAQABBQIKGiJ7zmPulZFWeE0rupoq9//EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEv/aAAgBAwEBPwEl/wD/xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAREv/aAAgBAgEBPwGzQo//xAAeEAEAAgICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABABECQSEiMkJRof/aAAgBAQAGPwLIXk1Acu25wjLT2JeL23c8Z+yx+Qb1P//EABsQAQEBAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExQaGx/9oACAEBAAE/IRiiyHzq/cSAoZanptQVzYxE5M7KYsFa6Z38ZewcIZ1rf//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQwO8D/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAR/9oACAEDAQE/EEhsyu3/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARIf/aAAgBAgEBPxA6sAyf/8QAHxABAAICAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFhgUGhUbHx/9oACAEBAAE/EKPJGApKB7PcQDktENwCAGLv6MQ43hTLWHjDDPyidLHfMqQo5u8+pUgLqPP4hl2IrQ0SjBSp+Vn/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/aafaec14f12e2af202d19f8b54206e0c/f9913/duke-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/aafaec14f12e2af202d19f8b54206e0c/f836f/duke-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/aafaec14f12e2af202d19f8b54206e0c/2244e/duke-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/aafaec14f12e2af202d19f8b54206e0c/f9913/duke-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I met Duke when I was on holiday in Zante, visiting the dog shelter we often volunteer at. The day we arrived, a little dog was running around inside, clearly terrified. We had to use our ham sandwiches to try and coax him towards us! Luckily it worked, and we got him back into his pen. We kept an eye on him for the next week or so, but sadly, on the last day of our trip, he became ill and had to go to the vets. We sat with him right up until we had to get on our plane home – it was heartbreaking.
\nThe vet kept us up-to-date and a week later, Duke had recovered and was allowed back to the shelter. By this point, we had decided to adopt him and bring him home to live with us when he was ready.
\n\n\nDuke is now a solid part of the family
\n
He arrived three months later, extremely nervous and unsure of everything. We took him to meet my parents’ three other dogs, who are also from Greece. He was nervous at first but he did well, soon becoming best friends with one of the dogs Ella. Ten months on and Duke is now a solid part of the family. Since I work from home, he’s had to learn how to deal with my constant company. He likes to come and poke his head into the camera while I’m on a call to say hello to my colleagues!
\nHe still has his moments and he's a very skittish boy, but once he's approved you (he does this by sticking his nose in your face and licking your ears), he’ll happily sit on top of you and wait for a tummy rub!
\nLike all the other rescues we work with, Duke has his 'quirks', some of which will stay with him forever and some that will disappear the more confident he gets. It’s lovely to watch his character grow as he gets more comfortable around us. He’s come such a long way already, both physically and mentally, and I can’t wait to watch him blossom even more.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Dusty","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-dusty","dom":false,"doy":false,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5c4a7348762a56d3ba99a1ddf822e498/f9913/dusty-heather-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c4a7348762a56d3ba99a1ddf822e498/f836f/dusty-heather-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c4a7348762a56d3ba99a1ddf822e498/2244e/dusty-heather-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c4a7348762a56d3ba99a1ddf822e498/f9913/dusty-heather-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our eldest son, who is six now, was born with several medical conditions. Dusty has always seemed to know this. From a puppy, she was always next to Stanley. Stanley was unable to see for a significant time and Dusty would bring her ball and drop it into his hand so he could throw it for her. Then she’d chase it, bring it back to him and place it in his hand again.
\nStanley was also born with complete weakness on his right side, so he struggled a little with his walking. So, Dusty would press herself against him to support him whilst he was going about his day-to-day business. When our youngest was born, Dusty became protective over him too, but she always knew Stanley needed a little more help.
\n\n\nShe almost sees herself as a sibling to the boys
\n
Thankfully, an operation back in March 2020 meant that Stanley’s vision was much improved. Old habits die hard though, so Dusty still treats him as though he has trouble seeing. She sleeps at the end of the bed. If he wakes up in the night, she guides him to the bathroom and back to bed. And if he rolls too close to the edge, she lies alongside him to keep him from falling out.
\nIt seems like she almost sees herself as a sibling to the boys. She joins in with their games and follows them round. Quite often, she sits next to the play kitchen while they ‘cook’ her dinner, or helps them dig in the sandpit. She even follows them around in the sea on holiday! Then she rounds them up and she makes sure that nobody is left behind.
\nDusty goes everywhere with us. As soon as we open the car door, she jumps straight in. She’s a best friend to both of our sons and our family wouldn’t be the same without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ed & Dave","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ed-dave","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4c5d933842b7dc9c686cb36f0b5a734e/f9913/ed-dave-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4c5d933842b7dc9c686cb36f0b5a734e/f836f/ed-dave-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4c5d933842b7dc9c686cb36f0b5a734e/2244e/ed-dave-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4c5d933842b7dc9c686cb36f0b5a734e/f9913/ed-dave-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"On 7 July this year, I had a twist of my left ankle, fell and hit my back off a wall. I have MS and I use a stick but wasn’t doing anything stupid – just watching my two dogs play, turned around and that was it.
\nMy son works from home and had just gone upstairs, so I knew I was in trouble as no one could have heard me. Dave my pug is trained to pick things I drop up, but I hadn’t dropped anything, so I told them to go get my son. They ran into the kitchen and stood barking but my son just kept working thinking they were playing.
\nIt had started to rain and I knew I was in trouble as I couldn’t move and my breathing had become very shallow. In between them running in and out, I asked them to get my phone but it wasn’t on the floor so Dave was confused. I know Ed my Shar Pei loves the furry toy on my phone, so I asked him to get it.
\n\n\nDear knows how long I’d have been out in the rain without my two super dogs
\n
By now I’d been lying on the path for 20 minutes and knew I had done something bad. Ed came over and I could move my head, so I held onto him and he slowly pulled me towards the backdoor. He then lifted my phone but dropped it as he wasn’t really allowed to touch it, but then Dave grabbed it and gave it to me.
\nI texted “help fallen” and down my son came. He called 999, and when the medics saw me, they too knew I’d done something. They thought I’d punctured a lung, but after getting IV morphine I was somehow into the ambulance and blue lighted to hospital.
\nI’d broken my ankle and my back, and was in hospital for seven weeks, then got home needing carers, nurses and physios. I’m on the way to better health now, but dear knows how long I’d have been out in the rain without my two super dogs.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Eddie","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-eddie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c99da28a7d461bf4f7a4af7db44c50b9/f9913/eddie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c99da28a7d461bf4f7a4af7db44c50b9/f836f/eddie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c99da28a7d461bf4f7a4af7db44c50b9/2244e/eddie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c99da28a7d461bf4f7a4af7db44c50b9/f9913/eddie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our daughter had been asking us to get a dog since she was young, and we finally gave in after losing both of our cats. When we got him, Eddie had already been named after the Jack Russell on the show Frasier, and it suited him so much we didn't change it.
\nHe has the same amount of energy as he did when we first got him, always providing us with lots of laughter. His favourite activity is jumping up to catch the bubbles I blow for him. If I go into the cupboard they’re stored in, he gives a high pitched, excited bark and runs into the room.
\n\n\nWhen I garden, he copies exactly what I’m doing
\n
When I garden, he copies exactly what I’m doing. If I dig, he digs, which is often really useful, but if I prune, he grabs hold of the plant and pulls it out, which isn’t so ideal! When I’m watering the plants, he always jumps in front of me and tries to drink straight from the hose.
\nEddie has so many more funny habits, like the way he barks at animals on the TV. It’s got to the point where I can't watch a nature programme unless he's asleep. He really is a funny, adorable and very unique dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Eddie","tags":["Puppy","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-eddie-sam","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7a504d6d8eaa626f763c335101a5e27c/f9913/eddie-sam-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7a504d6d8eaa626f763c335101a5e27c/f836f/eddie-sam-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7a504d6d8eaa626f763c335101a5e27c/2244e/eddie-sam-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7a504d6d8eaa626f763c335101a5e27c/f9913/eddie-sam-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When we got Eddie, we already had one dog under the age of two called Alfie. Alfie has always been full of energy. He loves playing with other dogs in the park, particularly when he’s being chased, so he can show off his speed! We knew Alfie would love a dog companion, so we brought Eddie home.
\n\n\n\n\nFrom day one, they became best friends
\n
From day one, they became best friends, doing everything together! They spend most of the day playing with the same toys and chasing each other around the park, garden or house, and then evenings are spent cuddling up and sleeping together.
\nEddie adores his older brother, following him around everywhere and copying everything he does. Because of this, he’s learnt everything so quickly! Eddie is also one of the cuddliest puppies I’ve ever known – he loves being around people and his favourite thing is to snuggle in the evenings on the sofa. Eddie has brought both us and Alfie nothing but joy!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Eevee and Bonnie","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-eevee-bonnie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/bce8a628d7465a02b5e063c8ac24e76f/f9913/eevee-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bce8a628d7465a02b5e063c8ac24e76f/f836f/eevee-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/bce8a628d7465a02b5e063c8ac24e76f/2244e/eevee-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/bce8a628d7465a02b5e063c8ac24e76f/f9913/eevee-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Eevee is a Springer Spaniel who came into our lives last year. She filled a hole we didn't even know we had with her adorable ways, which include falling asleep with a tennis ball in her mouth. She even helps me with my anxiety attacks.
\n\n\nEevee loves Bonnie
\n
One day, before we got Eevee, we were outside with our other dog Bonnie, a (then) eight-year-old Rough Coated Collie. She was over the field chasing her ball and running around, when all of a sudden fell to the ground. After taking her to the vets, we found out she’d ruptured her tendon and there wasn’t much the vet could do. We were told she would be able to walk again, but that she’d have a limp. During this time, Bonnie was clearly in pain and began to withdraw from us, spending all her time alone.
\nWhen we got Eevee a few months later, Bonnie was still struggling and hardly putting any weight onto her leg. Eevee loves Bonnie, and so kept making her play with her regardless of her protests – tug of war, rough and tumble, you name it, they played all day long. This meant Bonnie started strengthening her leg, and within a few months she was walking around again without a limp. Best of all, she had returned to her happy, outgoing self.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ella","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ella","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0df77b045531fb71fee2067d9ba12821/f9913/ella-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0df77b045531fb71fee2067d9ba12821/f836f/ella-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0df77b045531fb71fee2067d9ba12821/2244e/ella-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0df77b045531fb71fee2067d9ba12821/f9913/ella-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ella came into our lives when our friends decided to breed their Labrador Sam. We love mountain climbing and long walks in the Suffolk countryside, and they convinced us that we needed a dog to share those experiences with.
\n\n\nElla’s favourite place to walk is the Lake District
\n
They were certainly right. Ella’s favourite place to walk is the Lake District,and we’ve been fortunate enough to spend many hours hiking the Cumbrian Mountains. She loves collecting rocks and sticks to carry on her adventures, even if they’re half the size of her! We think she must be part-seal, because she’s so dedicated, she often dives underwater to seek out her treasures
\nShe has been our best friend during this troublesome year, and we never go far without her. Ella has even given us the inspiration to write blogs about our walks and take pictures of the many glorious sunsets we catch along the way. It will be a lovely way for us to look back on our adventurestogether.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ella","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-ella-ros","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQL/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgD/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAeyy6Jr2kSukSox//8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxITIRH/2gAIAQEAAQUCLNi1pz3QWMDbyAM0rQO1qjX5z//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABBB/9oACAEDAQE/ASn/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQQf/aAAgBAgEBPwEh/8QAHRAAAgEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECERIxcSEyQf/aAAgBAQAGPwKNoko7OoqYIzo9lcDuWPB8C0f/xAAdEAADAQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMWFBUcHx/9oACAEBAAE/IatNqt4aMXEtFfsSOq0trlbvwJNJPTNvFx8CMjFnQkS+h//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQhwdD/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAR/9oACAEDAQE/EHBix//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABECEx/9oACAECAQE/EFhQof/EACAQAQABBAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExQVFhcYGhsfD/2gAIAQEAAT8QiFJE0oI85p8w0E3YMdapF/H1UpJGDeLm9VdAi3ehvvio3awLMc2KCQWGBdpukxoIiR6UQMAfFf/Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2b419257138d9c67ddda213eb7c4c3e1/f9913/ella-ros-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2b419257138d9c67ddda213eb7c4c3e1/f836f/ella-ros-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/2b419257138d9c67ddda213eb7c4c3e1/2244e/ella-ros-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/2b419257138d9c67ddda213eb7c4c3e1/f9913/ella-ros-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Well, what can I say? Getting Ella three years ago was one of the best things we’ve ever done.
\nI guess we were a little sad, having just come through chemotherapy and a breast cancer diagnosis that had come out of the blue. At the same time, we were just emerging from Covid-19, too.
\nFrom the moment Ella joined our family, she was a ray of joy! From a fluffy, bitey puppy to the energetic, healthy dog she has become, she’s been a constant companion to the children and to us.
\n\n\n\n\nIf one of the children is upset, she throws herself at their side to give them comfort
\n
She gives us so much love and you can hear her tail thumping as soon as we enter the room. She’s so funny when she attacks her carrot – tossing it high in the air, snarling and barking at it. Ella’s also obsessed with looking out the upstairs window so she can shout (or rather, bark) when one of her dog friends walks by.
\nShe seems to understand so much. For example, if one of the children is upset, she throws herself at their side to give them comfort. She’s brought so much happiness into our lives and we would never be without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ellie","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ellie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5589f8ddb28d7930f7b7cb9345b71db7/f9913/ellie-mag-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5589f8ddb28d7930f7b7cb9345b71db7/f836f/ellie-mag-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5589f8ddb28d7930f7b7cb9345b71db7/2244e/ellie-mag-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5589f8ddb28d7930f7b7cb9345b71db7/f9913/ellie-mag-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ellie has been with us since she was nine weeks old. She was an RSPCA rescue dog. She is a Staffie Cross, the smallest of five puppies who we fell in love with on first seeing. She isn’t a pet to us, she is our family member.
\n\n\nShe is our family member
\n
She has helped me personally through many difficult times — on bad days after losing my precious dad, and when I was diagnosed with breast cancer she never left my side from start to finish of my treatment. She understands our every thought and makes us laugh every day. We always say that she doesn’t think she is a dog!
\nShe has many medical problems herself to overcome but we have always been there for her, like she has us. Life would just not be the same without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ellie","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ellie-patricia","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7d1ab451ee3a993591b3ec52f9446c76/f9913/ellie-patricia-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7d1ab451ee3a993591b3ec52f9446c76/f836f/ellie-patricia-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7d1ab451ee3a993591b3ec52f9446c76/2244e/ellie-patricia-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7d1ab451ee3a993591b3ec52f9446c76/f9913/ellie-patricia-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ellie is naughty, but smart. She thinks and waits, then grabs the opportunity! She’s so intelligent – she’ll picks up things that I’ve dropped, and even fetch the phone.
\nShe helped my heart to heal after the sudden loss of my Dad, then my beloved dog Megan just five weeks later. She has been my constant support and loyal companion for 13½ years.
\nShe has nurtured Maple, our adopted terrified ex-breeder, who had never had a family before. Thanks to Ellie, she is a different dog, and they adore each other. They love to go camping and they can tell when we’re going to get the caravan.
\n\n\nShe has been my constant support and loyal companion for 13½ years
\n
Ellie has a fantastic homing instinct. She saved my friend and I from a cold night in the woods a couple of years ago. We had gone for an evening woodland walk, but missed the turn-off and followed the wrong trail.
\nAfter four hours trying to find our way back, it was pitch black and we were having to use the torch on my phone, but the battery was nearly spent. By this time, we were totally lost and distressed. We came to a junction of five paths and didn't know where to go.
\nIn tears, I said ‘Ellie, find us the path’. She sniffed around a bit, then set off. We followed her, and lo and behold, 50 yards down the track was a car park! Having found the car park, we were able to walk back to the village. If it hadn't been for Ellie, we could have been there all night in the dark. Clever girl!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Elsa","tags":["Small","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-elsa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDBAX/xAAXAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgAD/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGp8xNbMS88jtQdf//EABwQAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIRAAEDEhATIv/aAAgBAQABBQLDkYWXVCd2J6nt7I3fDU//xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAR/9oACAEDAQE/AUZf/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAgEBPwEf/8QAHhAAAgIBBQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECESIgITJBUZH/2gAIAQEABj8Ck5ZX0Ype0cV8I0WbLR//xAAbEAADAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhQTFxsf/aAAgBAQABPyGc074zIZq6aUXe+BQNFlNtaaXw1oenBo6J8JI//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDb34L/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhEP/aAAgBAwEBPxAK1Hecuf/EABkRAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEhMf/aAAgBAgEBPxB8wocf/8QAHRABAAICAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUYFhcf/aAAgBAQABPxBitgDbxQcbi3Si7Cx2fhLHIrTnXkwqKh13FMIWlc5agWAfYPk4Ld3A07YLYB2T/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/09b474098e6ed7c92f0885e40733f84e/f9913/elsa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/09b474098e6ed7c92f0885e40733f84e/f836f/elsa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/09b474098e6ed7c92f0885e40733f84e/2244e/elsa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/09b474098e6ed7c92f0885e40733f84e/f9913/elsa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got Elsa from a rescue centre in Doncaster. I was so pleased, and it made me feel great that I’d rescued her. She was so thin, and her coat was all matted up. I was told that she was mistreated previously. As I’d lost my husband, she became a great comfort to me. I now had someone to go for walks with, and she had someone to love and get love from.
\n\n\n\n\nIt made me feel great that I’d rescued her
\n
In the beginning, she always followed me about and just wanted to be mine. She was shy, but I made her happy. I got her coat clipped and fed her up. She was looking good, and I felt great every time I saw her improvement – it made me smile. She gave me lots of love and she even made friends with my son’s cat! We quickly became firm friends, and she would bark at anyone who came near me.
\nOne day, my son Ken said to me: “You have a rest and I’ll walk Elsa.” He put her lead on and she went to the door. But when he opened the door, she sat down and refused to move. As soon as I came over, she was up and out! Poor Ken, bless him. He did try a few more times but she gave him the same reaction. All in all, she has such a loving personality and brings me so much joy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Emily","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-emily","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3173bf5d01a26b0d2157e531d1795d5c/f9913/emily-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3173bf5d01a26b0d2157e531d1795d5c/f836f/emily-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3173bf5d01a26b0d2157e531d1795d5c/2244e/emily-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3173bf5d01a26b0d2157e531d1795d5c/f9913/emily-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Emily is a very affectionate little soul, which is quite remarkable considering how she started life. She was found left for dead in the middle of nowhere and was malnourished to a tiny 10kg. With thanks to the RSPCA, she got to a proper weight for a lurcher and now she gets spoilt rotten at home!
\n\n\n\n\nHer faith in humanity, after everything she has been through, gives me hope
\n
Her faith in humanity, after everything she has been through, gives me hope. I'll never get tired of her pretty little face or her chaotic whippet-sized zoomies around the garden. She's helped me make human friends and made my husband and I more active. Not to mention, she convinced us to rescue another mistreated lurcher!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Enzo","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-enzo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7573a9f871f3546131b4a354237a9aca/f9913/enzo-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7573a9f871f3546131b4a354237a9aca/f836f/enzo-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7573a9f871f3546131b4a354237a9aca/2244e/enzo-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7573a9f871f3546131b4a354237a9aca/f9913/enzo-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Enzo is a very chilled dog. Every time he sits down, he likes to cross his paws, which I think makes him look very posh! And, instead of blinking normally, he winks at us instead. He just sits there with his paws crossed, winking at us – it’s hilarious! He also loves his bow tie, which we bought because we felt like it suited his funny personality.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Erin","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23","Support Dogs","Adult"],"slug":"meet-erin","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2083b0cc52b67466d9ee6bb23ab1eedd/f9913/erin-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2083b0cc52b67466d9ee6bb23ab1eedd/f836f/erin-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2083b0cc52b67466d9ee6bb23ab1eedd/2244e/erin-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2083b0cc52b67466d9ee6bb23ab1eedd/f9913/erin-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"He also loves his bow tie
\n
I was still at uni when I got Erin. Every single person I knew told me NOT to get a dog so young, especially a border collie as they’re known for their rather relentless nature. But, after listening to endless puppy podcasts and reading countless books, I travelled all the way to Wales to meet this three-month-old puppy.
\nStill, no amount of research could have prepared me for what was to come. Within the first five seconds of meeting me, Erin had peed all over my carefully selected outfit and licked my face raw.
\n\n\nShe’s brought an energy to my life that I’ve never felt before
\n
As soppy as it sounds, I knew she was the one then and there. I cannot express how blessed I feel to now be the proud owner of a beautiful girl who is ball-obsessed, barks at anything that moves and will lick every inch of your face when given the opportunity.
\nShe’s got me through two lockdowns and the rest of my degree, but most of all she’s brought an energy to my life that I’ve never felt before. She is completely crazy, but I wouldn’t change her for the world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Esther","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family"],"slug":"meet-esther","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7122010f309cc7d882a43a8ee72bedc1/f9913/esther-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7122010f309cc7d882a43a8ee72bedc1/f836f/esther-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7122010f309cc7d882a43a8ee72bedc1/2244e/esther-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7122010f309cc7d882a43a8ee72bedc1/f9913/esther-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Esther is very clever and loving. When I was unwell and requiring chemo, she stayed by my side throughout the journey – keeping my feet warm and giving me lots of cuddles.
\n\n\n\n\nShe stayed by my side
\n
Now that I’m well, she’s enjoying her long walks with me again and loves meeting her little friends!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Etta","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-etta","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0f7b431461038a6b6a3dc697116f9418/f9913/etta-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0f7b431461038a6b6a3dc697116f9418/f836f/etta-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0f7b431461038a6b6a3dc697116f9418/2244e/etta-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0f7b431461038a6b6a3dc697116f9418/f9913/etta-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Etta used to live with her sister and another family, but they couldn’t cope when the two dogs started to fight. Luckily for me, that meant I got to take her on, and she’s been absolutely amazing.
\nShe’s done everything I’ve asked of her and been a fantastic companion. I can’t bend down easily because of a bad hip, so she helps me around the house by picking up things I drop.
\n\n\nShe helps me around the house
\n
She’s even competed and won at HTM (dog dancing) and has learnt all sorts of tricks. She now does scent-work and is enjoying competing at that. She’s also no stranger to the screen, and has been in an episode of Doc Martin, as well as a German and an Australian film.
\nBest of all, Etta loves long walks and going for a swim. Her love of life has got me through lockdown and her companionship has truly kept me sane.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ever","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ever","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/229a4568b821ca93db86952f0fe853bc/f9913/ever-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/229a4568b821ca93db86952f0fe853bc/f836f/ever-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/229a4568b821ca93db86952f0fe853bc/2244e/ever-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/229a4568b821ca93db86952f0fe853bc/f9913/ever-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I'm from Poland but I’ve lived in Edinburgh for the last 17 years with my family. We recently decided to get a Bernese Mountain Dog, and the last three years with Ever have been a gift.
\nAt 51kg, he’s a big, gentle, cuddly bear. He's my travel companion so he’s been everywhere with me. The last time he travelled with me, we drove through five different countries, from the UK to Poland.
\n\n\n\n\nAt 51kg, he’s a big, gentle, cuddly bear
\n
Since he came home, I haven’t left him alone for more than five hours. He's my shadow, whether I’m in the toilet, the bath, the kitchen or the bedroom. Every time he finishes his food, he always lets us know he's done by walking into the room and waiting for us to congratulate him.
\nHe loves long walks and all types of water, from lochs and rivers to wet grass. In the street, people stop just to pet him. He also loves kids, and they often think he’s a bear.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Evie","tags":["Brave","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-evie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4781d5d7deab800315291de29002d0f2/f9913/evie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4781d5d7deab800315291de29002d0f2/f836f/evie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4781d5d7deab800315291de29002d0f2/2244e/evie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4781d5d7deab800315291de29002d0f2/f9913/evie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Chocolate Labrador was the smallest of her litter, weighing only 1.5kg at eight weeks old. We spent a lot of time building her up, as she lives with two other, larger Labradors. She thrived on the attention, food and exercise, and is now a healthy 27 kg.
\n\n\nShe keeps us going
\n
When she was one, she was diagnosed with epilepsy. I am so proud of herand the way she just gets on with life. We treat her the same as our other two dogs, so she enjoys going on walks, eating and playing. With her happy-go-lucky character, she keeps us going, always reminding us to stay positive. Evie has taught us that life is too short to spend it worrying. We admire her so much.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ezra","tags":["Support Dog","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ezra","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ed350e6dc4bd17a439f309f75a194a32/f9913/ezra-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ed350e6dc4bd17a439f309f75a194a32/f836f/ezra-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ed350e6dc4bd17a439f309f75a194a32/2244e/ezra-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ed350e6dc4bd17a439f309f75a194a32/f9913/ezra-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ezra is our whippet, our first dog and my first ever dog. He makes us laugh every day with his scattiness and crazy zooming and he gives the best cuddles. He also steals any bit of food available and he has the perfect pointed snout for sniffling the last of my tea, even when I think he's fast asleep.
\nEzra was four years old when our little boy was born, two months before the pandemic started. At first, Ezzy was scared of the crying, but he soon came to be a doting big brother.
\n\n\nHe’s always there for me
\n
That crying felt like it didn't stop for 13 months though as our son had severe colic, and I spiralled into severe post-natal depression and anxiety. Ezra was, and still is, always there for me. He’s a constant calm support and he’s so patient and gentle with our now two-year-old little boy.
\nEzra has really helped put a smile on my face every day, and he got me out of bed or out the house, even when I really didn't want to. I will love him always.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ferdie","tags":["Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ferdie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/50daa53e83dbd9201905ade1d0683530/f9913/ferdie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/50daa53e83dbd9201905ade1d0683530/f836f/ferdie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/50daa53e83dbd9201905ade1d0683530/2244e/ferdie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/50daa53e83dbd9201905ade1d0683530/f9913/ferdie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"20-week-old Ferdie was a hard decision to make honestly. We lost our previous dog three years ago and were heartbroken. He had been a rescue dog and no other could replace him. We agreed to wait until we had more time on our hands before we would consider getting another. We occasionally talked about getting a dog but that was as far as it went until we were told about some Doberman puppies. I was very reluctant as I wasn’t used to a large breed of dog and I’d heard some (incorrect) bad press stories about the Doberman dogs. My partner was more enthusiastic than I was but we decided to go and investigate. And, as they say, we never looked back!
\n\n\nHe has given us a new lease of life
\n
This charming boy came along at just the right time. He has given us a new lease of life. Like any puppy he’s been hard work, but we’ve been rewarded with the most gentle and soppiest of dogs. There’s not an aggressive bone in his body and he has such a lust for life. In fact, he’s got so little aggression that all his toys remain intact. He has one downfall though – he’s not keen on getting his feet wet and we live right by the sea. Even damp sand causes a disdainful look! He is a regular window ornament and likes nothing more than to lie there and watch the world go by. I have plenty of doggy nose art to clean on a daily basis!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Fergal","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-fergal","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDBAEF/8QAFwEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQMCBP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABo7LPzU0KjOWoL+eNH//EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAAMSISIx/9oACAEBAAEFAox6ibNqGA4ReRZpn9//xAAZEQADAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQIjH/2gAIAQMBAT8BU64kfT//xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARMf/aAAgBAgEBPwETcphyf//EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBECIVEx/9oACAEBAAY/Ahb8VTfSskJI1yP/xAAeEAEAAwEAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRYYGhsf/aAAgBAQABPyHefcKpNZKrZU95lfMI6sXg4xR2ESyyz9m59SNb28J//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABAXxwP/xAAXEQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEh/9oACAEDAQE/EFE5IjmTcj1f/8QAGBEBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARMUH/2gAIAQIBAT8QRo2PkS5X/8QAHRABAQACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBUWFxgf/aAAgBAQABPxBNAXiDrD7okchu3BesgGhsCaGKntsU/I5MsdTTbTpxeUOLtnT5i4ZUnVDWCVRZ2+M//9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6fee44102f050a20b5980421f54e4f46/f9913/fergal-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6fee44102f050a20b5980421f54e4f46/f836f/fergal-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6fee44102f050a20b5980421f54e4f46/2244e/fergal-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6fee44102f050a20b5980421f54e4f46/f9913/fergal-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"By no exaggeration, Fergal has changed my life. I desperately wanted a dog for a bit of companionship. After all the lockdowns and craziness of 2020, I had really lost my way. The days moulded into one and I had nothing to look forward to.
\nThen Fergal came along, and my life has never felt so full. He comes everywhere with me, like my little sidekick who gives me a confidence boost when I need it. His lust for life is contagious. He makes me laugh every day, and the best part is how much of a social life he has opened up for me.
\n\n\nI truly underestimated how wonderful having a dog would be
\n
I'd never have the confidence to strike up a conversation with just anyone, but with Fergal it's easy. He's always (obviously) the ice breaker. I've met so many wonderful people at his training group, out hiking or whenever he does his wiggly bum dance in front of someone to get attention. He is the most dramatic dog you'll ever wish to meet in the best way possible.
\nWalks are never quiet these days. He is well known in my area. Even our local lollipop lady carries a special treat for him every morning. He bumps noses with the local horses every day, can clear an entire field of sheep poo in less than 10 minutes, and if he hears the ice cream van jingle, he won’t move from the front door until you take him to get his 99 cone.
\nI truly underestimated how wonderful having a dog would be. I adore him. He is my best friend.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ferdie","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ferdie-clair","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a8137fe7dc2d6d0a6a58b9c6c381c145/f9913/ferdie-clair-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a8137fe7dc2d6d0a6a58b9c6c381c145/f836f/ferdie-clair-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a8137fe7dc2d6d0a6a58b9c6c381c145/2244e/ferdie-clair-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a8137fe7dc2d6d0a6a58b9c6c381c145/f9913/ferdie-clair-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ferdie is a very gentle whippet who has helped foster puppies, cats and guinea pigs over the years. He has always been so kind, especially to cats. When a new foster kitten or cat gets introduced to Ferdie, he lets them get used to him in their own time. He doesn’t mind whether they want to leap on him and hold onto his neck, or just cuddle him.
\nHis best friend is Otto – an abused cat who finds people really scary. Otto isn’t good at sitting with other cats, but he loves Ferdie and they often sit in an arm chair together. Ferdie is also very gentle with my guinea pigs, and he’s even helped two puppies, who came from very challenging situations, as we got them ready for their forever home.
\n\n\nHe’s helped foster puppies, cats and guinea pigs
\n
In his spare time, Ferdie likes sleeping, sleeping and more sleeping. He can regularly be found buried under a sofa throw, no matter how hot it is. He’s a great companion for me, and if I’m upset, he starts whining because he knows I’m struggling. Then when I lose something, he’s always by my side trying to help me find it.
\nFerdie is starting to slow down now and I’m having to deal with the realisation that he may not be here much longer. I don’t think I’ll ever meet another dog like him – he’s a dog in a million.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Fergus","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-fergus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ef6e788f8e451879fa9e3846dc388f1e/f9913/fergus-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ef6e788f8e451879fa9e3846dc388f1e/f836f/fergus-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ef6e788f8e451879fa9e3846dc388f1e/2244e/fergus-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ef6e788f8e451879fa9e3846dc388f1e/f9913/fergus-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Fergus has been an absolute blessing during the last year. I’ve had to shield, and he’s been by my side the whole way through.
\nWe’ve passed away the days away together, and he’s been a great help to me in the garden. Fergus loves nothing more than to dig holes, although I often catch him digging in places he really shouldn’t!
\n\n\nHe’s been by my side the whole way through
\n
He’s such a loving and friendly dog, and with him to look after, I have a reason to get up early in the morning – although usually, it’s because he’s jumping on my head in an attempt to tell me he’s ready for his breakfast.
\nFergus, along with his big brother Henry, have their own social media page and have kept hundreds of followers entertained with their antics during lockdown. I would be lost without my constant companion.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Fern","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-fern","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCAf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABhp5uIlaMYDVIb//EAB4QAAEDBAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIAASEDBBESIjNB/9oACAEBAAEFAg7bji+y8p4JtMooYHgYX//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEAEP/aAAgBAwEBPwEjf//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQIBAT8BH//EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABECECMWFR/9oACAEBAAY/AsWzsN+FlaHDXT//xAAaEAEAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFR/9oACAEBAAE/IS5Gr8iBaB7TMB0bnnaEF023u52u8TX+RGt7ZiB1H//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQwPfA/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDH/2gAIAQMBAT8QgP/EABgRAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARATFB/9oACAECAQE/EIjjGn//xAAbEAEBAQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhQWFx4f/aAAgBAQABPxBIiFHRoK70NPv5upam466tnfLw1CqxSMCrJ6v7hG0EODtQxTNcIgXf/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e5d48b4c45f35feca1b1eb29e6405d39/f9913/fern-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e5d48b4c45f35feca1b1eb29e6405d39/f836f/fern-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e5d48b4c45f35feca1b1eb29e6405d39/2244e/fern-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e5d48b4c45f35feca1b1eb29e6405d39/f9913/fern-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Fern has been with us a few weeks now. She’s an affectionate girl, learning to play, eat nicely, and come to terms with her young, bouncy four-legged brother. She loves a snuggle, she walks like an angel, and she’s always kind to both people and other dogs. She’s also always up for a fuss!
\n\n\n\n\nFate brought Fern into our lives, and she will stay in them for the rest of hers
\n
Before she came to us, she’d had a life in a cage, having to race and being hurt if she didn’t want to. Eventually she was too damaged by racing, so she was deemed useless and moved from Ireland to England. She was put into rescue kennels, then went to a home for a short while, but ended up back at the rescue, through no fault of her own.
\nFate brought Fern into our lives, and she will stay in them for the rest of hers. She doesn’t know that yet, of course. She doesn’t know we love her and her gentle ways already. I love her tattooed ears, and the way her burn marks and scars have grown back as white fur on her grey coat. I love her weird jerky attempts at playing, and how she waits patiently for her meals. She will have the life she deserves now, and we will have less room on the sofa!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Fibee","tags":["Adorable","Adult","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-fibee","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/05c8a31739d7131246b8146fe0e90bed/f9913/fibee-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/05c8a31739d7131246b8146fe0e90bed/f836f/fibee-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/05c8a31739d7131246b8146fe0e90bed/2244e/fibee-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/05c8a31739d7131246b8146fe0e90bed/f9913/fibee-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Fibee came to me through a dog sitting site, five years ago now. Her owners were French and wanted somebody to look after her when they went back to France, sometimes for weeks at a time. At first, Fibee was very nervous, but I took her everywhere with me and she slowly became more confident. She trusted me.
\nI didn’t even notice what bad shape she was in. She had decayed teeth, a scabby eye and no hair. I don’t really know how to explain it. Everyone else reacted with a slight recoil, but I thought she was lovely. And love is blind.
\nThe more time she spent at mine, the happier she seemed to be there. Three years ago, her owners asked me whether I’d like to look after her full time. They were having babies so she was being more and more neglected, and she just loved her visits to mine.
\n\n\nI can’t believe how lucky I am
\n
I honestly couldn’t believe it – I could have never imagined such an outcome when I first met her. But I said yes, without hesitation.
\nBefore Fibee, I was a bit wild, spending weekends out with mates. Nothing too crazy, but nothing too healthy either. Fibee changed all that. She gave me a routine. I knew I needed to take care of her and make her feel safe.
\nNo vets could tell me what was wrong with her skin. But I got her teeth sorted and slowly, with a grain-free diet, her eye got a lot better.
\nNow it’s like she’s had a second lease of life. She comes on hikes with me, 5+ miles on the trot. She’s a favourite at the leisure centres I work for, and she just helped me propose to my fiancée.
\nSometimes I just stare at her and can’t believe how lucky I am that she chose me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Finley","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-finley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6dae133cf610fcad2753b09227fd7861/f9913/finley-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6dae133cf610fcad2753b09227fd7861/f836f/finley-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6dae133cf610fcad2753b09227fd7861/2244e/finley-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6dae133cf610fcad2753b09227fd7861/f9913/finley-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Finley is as sweet as a dog could get. We have had such an amazing bond since the day he was born. He is so loyal, cheeky and playful – I really don’t know what I would do without him.
\nI live at home with my family and we have always had a strict ‘no dogs upstairs’ rule in place, but recently that has become a little lax. Finley loves nothing more than being upstairs and sleeping on the end of my bed. Though I have to say, the 6am wake up calls from him laying on my chest and wagging his tail so hard he could almost take off aren’t always appreciated!
\n\n\nHe was taking underwear out of my washing basket and stashing it underneath the sofa
\n
I work alternating day and night shifts, so whenever I’m not there Finley would look around my room for me and have a general sniff around. Or at least that’s what I thought he was doing.
\nIt turns out every time I wasn’t there, Finley was taking a set of underwear out of my washing basket and stashing it underneath the sofa. One night I came home earlier than expected, and when I walked upstairs there was Finley with the guiltiest look on his face and a pair of knickers in his mouth.
\nI asked for them back and he just RAN. At 3am, this is the last thing I wanted to do, but there I was chasing Finley round the house whilst trying to be as quiet as possible. He was in his element. And it’s safe to say, I now put the lid on my washing basket!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Finn","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-finn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4abcc512c5ab39d7fe9bb64585a91620/f9913/finn-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4abcc512c5ab39d7fe9bb64585a91620/f836f/finn-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4abcc512c5ab39d7fe9bb64585a91620/2244e/finn-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4abcc512c5ab39d7fe9bb64585a91620/f9913/finn-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Border Collie Finn never fails to make me smile. He adores the TV and will watch any animal programme, but he especially loves adverts with animals in them. As soon as one comes on, he’ll grab one of his many toys and start prancing around in front of the screen, barking loudly.
\n\n\nFinn seems to have an internal clock
\n
Finn seems to have an internal clock, and he always gets restless around his mealtimes. If you miss the mark, he’ll badger you until you feed him! He also knows when I usually go to bed and will often sit and stare at me when it’s around that time, as if he’s saying goodnight.
\nHe’s so funny and makes us laugh every single day, like when he tries to avoid puddles on our walks by doing a little sidestep dance, or when he helps his dad out with the gardening by doing some digging.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Fizz","tags":["Adult","Small","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-fizz","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/77548b9c389a28a91b1d595fd0264d2f/f9913/fizz-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/77548b9c389a28a91b1d595fd0264d2f/f836f/fizz-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/77548b9c389a28a91b1d595fd0264d2f/2244e/fizz-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/77548b9c389a28a91b1d595fd0264d2f/f9913/fizz-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Jack Russell, Fizz, is my workmate and best friend. Whether we are lambing sheep from January until April or sat on the tractor all summer and autumn, she’s always there. To be fair, she has an easy life on the tractor, just sleeping and watching the wildlife (that she would love to chase).
\n\n\nShe is worth a million dollars to me
\n
But when it comes to the sheep, she’ll help drive them round when we move them, and you can often find her in the lambing shed looking after any bottle or poorly lambs. She nurses them with gentle licks, encouraging them to survive – or sometimes she’s just cleaning milk off their faces.
\nAt the end of a busy day or after chilling with family or friends, she can be found in the pub with me and often many more dogs too. She is worth a million dollars to me, and it would take a lot to replace her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Flossie","tags":["Adorable","Family","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-flossie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a409b07cabb50f65860359bc07518796/f9913/flossie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a409b07cabb50f65860359bc07518796/f836f/flossie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a409b07cabb50f65860359bc07518796/2244e/flossie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a409b07cabb50f65860359bc07518796/f9913/flossie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog Flossie is my fur baby. She comes absolutely everywhere with me and my husband, including our wedding six months ago. Flossie was the guest of honour and made our day even more special.
\nWe also took her on our honeymoon to the Lake District, where we had lots of fun adventures together, from climbing hills to riding a steam train.
\n\n\nShe was the guest of honour at our wedding
\n
Flossie’s favourite thing in the world is socks – she will sneak upstairs and have a good rummage through the washing pile until she finds one. She then proceeds to bury her sock treasure in any blanket or cushion she can find. If you leave a sock somewhere, it’s fair game!
\nFlossie recently celebrated her fourth birthday. The above photo is from her annual birthday photoshoot. There are more photos of Flossie in our phones than anything else – I’m sure all dog owners can relate!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Flo","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-flo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d86549ce9f09d13026c3fd999fc830b5/f9913/flo-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d86549ce9f09d13026c3fd999fc830b5/f836f/flo-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d86549ce9f09d13026c3fd999fc830b5/2244e/flo-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d86549ce9f09d13026c3fd999fc830b5/f9913/flo-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Flo was an isolation puppy from the Dogs Trust. She came into our lives at just the right time. Both my mum and I are frontline workers caring for the local community. And my dad recently had his right leg amputated after a long battle with cancer. We live in a small secluded village and we were worried about how my dad would cope with being housebound while we were both at work.
\nIn came Flo, with her unusual beagle colours and regal attitude. She fits right in with our older dog Flash and has already become the boss of the house. She’s more interested in snuggling up to my dad on the sofa than playing in the garden. And every Thursday at 9pm she sits on the spot for the clapping for our carers. We all think she believes this round of applause is for her – she even pops a paw up when it’s over!
\n\n\nShe came into our lives at just the right time
\n
She loves her home comforts and drags her blanket with her everywhere she goes. She’s always ready for nap o’clock. But most of all she loves tummy rubs. She is now 14 weeks’ old and celebrating her fourth week with the family who love and spoil her far too much already.
\nWhen I asked the family what their favourite thing about Flo was everyone was in agreement: it was her love of carrying a stick on every walk, especially when they’re three times the size of her and too heavy to carry.
\nIt’s Flo’s world really, we just live in it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Frank","tags":["Small","Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-frank","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a2bf7b94acbdf47998d30d154cac6da4/f9913/frank-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a2bf7b94acbdf47998d30d154cac6da4/f836f/frank-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a2bf7b94acbdf47998d30d154cac6da4/2244e/frank-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a2bf7b94acbdf47998d30d154cac6da4/f9913/frank-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Frank is such a character. He absolutely loves cuddles. Being a Dachshund, he can usually be found snuggling under a blanket, or wrapped up in a cardigan all cosy and warm. He constantly tries to 'burrow' under the duvet if he’s on the bed.
\n\n\nHe’ll appear in the doorway as if by magic
\n
He also loves food, and his favourites includes eggs, toast and bananas. Frank can sense when one of us is eating a banana without him. Once youstart peeling, he’ll appear in the doorway as if by magic, ready for a bite!
\nI suffer from seizures, and Frank always senses when I am having one andwill not leave my side until I have recovered. He’s a firm part of our family
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Freddie","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-freddie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/28fe16f945690b2133af74dab41c12d8/f9913/freddie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/28fe16f945690b2133af74dab41c12d8/f836f/freddie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/28fe16f945690b2133af74dab41c12d8/2244e/freddie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/28fe16f945690b2133af74dab41c12d8/f9913/freddie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Freddie has saved me. I suffer with anxiety and panic attacks, which got particularly bad last year. I knew getting a dog wouldn’t ‘fix’ me but I also knew that for some people, having a dog can be a source of comfort.
\nIt’s safe to say Freddie has been my saviour – he truly lights up my world every single day. He’s got such a big personality that everyone always comments on how ‘human’ he is.
\n\n\nFreddie has been my saviour
\n
Freddie likes to chat, so he’ll howl at me whenever I talk to him. Every morning and every time I come home after being out, he makes this cute little growl – I’m sure it’s his way of telling me he loves me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Freddie","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-freddie-charlotte","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/13f334805feb8caec9a1c44984e37a40/f9913/freddie-charlotte-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/13f334805feb8caec9a1c44984e37a40/f836f/freddie-charlotte-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/13f334805feb8caec9a1c44984e37a40/2244e/freddie-charlotte-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/13f334805feb8caec9a1c44984e37a40/f9913/freddie-charlotte-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This is my lovely boy, Freddie. He's a Labradoodle and I've had him since he was a puppy.
\nFreddie is a therapy dog and works mainly with further education students (16-25-year-olds). He has the best temperament you could hope for, and the students love seeing him! This week, he’s been very busy helping to calm those last-minute exam nerves.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s made an impact on so many people’s lives
\n
When he's not working, he's just an amazing pet. He loves other animals and especially loves playing with other dogs (Labradors are his favourite). His guilty pleasure is finding something smelly to roll in and we frequently need a quick shower after a walk in the park!
\nHe’s great company, so well behaved, and gets to go out on lots of nice day trips to visit dog-friendly places. He's made such an impact on so many people's lives – he really doesn't know how special he is!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Forrest","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-forrest","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEEAv/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABszTC9TOTnhbgH//EABkQAQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAhExEP/aAAgBAQABBQIh35uNit2yuX//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAaEAABBQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARABAgIVFh/9oACAEBAAY/AnxAVyP/xAAbEAEAAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMcFBUf/aAAgBAQABPyFWgM2MVFl9jSOg4JS12DTM8AoHyW6M/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABBoP37/xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQESEB/9oACAEDAQE/EMsDQ//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEh/9oACAECAQE/EIS0o//EAB4QAQEAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExYUFRgZGx/9oACAEBAAE/EHMi6K6yIqnDbfjHugc2wB3MWOQW8O19/uIqannDAcOsCJSBFp7fvGQQJec//9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5fec9cef0cdae3b5ac5cead52ac149d3/f9913/forrest-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5fec9cef0cdae3b5ac5cead52ac149d3/f836f/forrest-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5fec9cef0cdae3b5ac5cead52ac149d3/2244e/forrest-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5fec9cef0cdae3b5ac5cead52ac149d3/f9913/forrest-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I had hit rock bottom before I picked up Forest. I felt like I had no purpose in life and he completely saved me. I have never felt a love like it. Getting up and walking with him each morning has been incredible for my mental health and I have loved taking him to all my favourite National Trust spots.
\n\n\nThe most loving dog
\n
He loves his walks but is a little bit of a diva in this weather and manages to skirt his way around all the mud and puddles. I love the way he lies down when he sees other dogs coming almost as if he’s ready to pounce and play with them, and also his little squeaks every time he yawns. His walk has been described as more of a strut – cute and he knows it!
\nHis name came from my favourite film, Forrest Gump, and we have had many a laugh shouting ‘run Forrest run!’ while working on his off-the-lead training.
\nHe’s very foxy looking and it’s been so funny hearing everyone walk past him and gasp about how much he looks like one. He’s the best thing to every happen to me. Without a doubt he saved my life and I’m already so excited to take him on many more adventures.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Freddie","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-freddie-christine","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b02d3af5da3bd34a2784d10bb05666c8/f9913/freddie-christine-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b02d3af5da3bd34a2784d10bb05666c8/f836f/freddie-christine-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b02d3af5da3bd34a2784d10bb05666c8/2244e/freddie-christine-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b02d3af5da3bd34a2784d10bb05666c8/f9913/freddie-christine-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I took Freddie in when he was 13 months old. He’d been through a bad time somewhere. He’d obviously been hit or beaten, as he’d almost go through the floor if you so much as raised a hand, even to comb your hair.
\nHe wouldn’t go to anyone, and it took two weeks to get him used to living in the house and accepting my husband. He was frightened of everything, even a peg dropping. In his view, it was best to avoid people wherever possible. But he loved his tennis ball. I kept asking men to play ball with him and this worked well. He would take the ball back to them, which was a great improvement. Then I got shingles, and we couldn’t go out, so now I need to start socialising him again.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s a joy to live with
\n
Freddie actually came to me about six or seven weeks after I lost my friend Monty. I wasn’t in a good place, but Freddie helped me through that rough patch. He’s a joy to live with, although he does love to chew through his rope toys.
\nHe sneaks into the bedroom in the early hours and ends up sleeping on the bed. He has this thing about sitting in front of me with his front paws on my lap and looking at me with those big brown eyes, which makes me melt. He’ll soon be two years old, and I can start working with him again.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Freddy and Frank","tags":["Class of 19/23","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Adult"],"slug":"meet-freddy-frank","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1ecf9cc4207ce13b2a745cf9ef34d075/f9913/freddy-frank-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1ecf9cc4207ce13b2a745cf9ef34d075/f836f/freddy-frank-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1ecf9cc4207ce13b2a745cf9ef34d075/2244e/freddy-frank-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1ecf9cc4207ce13b2a745cf9ef34d075/f9913/freddy-frank-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Six months ago, we rehomed Freddy, a five-month-old Husky cross. He was a kind, funny bundle of energy. A month or so after his arrival, we started to notice some strange behaviours. And, after months of back and forth with vets and behaviourists, it was established that Fred suffered from a stress disorder, verging on PTSD.
\nWith lots of work, Fred has been improving day by day, but the one thing that didn’t change was his distress when other dogs walked away from him or didn’t interact.
\nI work closely with a rescue centre in my job. They asked if we’d try fostering as it would help us with Fred, while also helping an unwell pug who wasn’t happy in rescue. We went over with Fred and took them both for a walk in the forest. Frank, the pug, was pretty tolerant of Fred’s manic leaping and pawing – he just waggled his little bottom and carried on.
\n\n\nInstantly it was like they understood one another
\n
Frank moved in and instantly it was like they understood one another. Frank was due to have BOAS surgery so his breathing was awful, and quite hard to listen to. Fred’s yelping in the car ended almost instantly and instead he would lean against the wall of Frank’s crate, and Frank would lean back onto him.
\nFred is still erratic at times, but Frank has totally changed him and our famiy life. He’s 10 days post BOAS surgery now and is the happiest, most loving boy. As both are rescues, we cannot ever imagine how someone chose to abandon either of them.
\nI think it’s important for people to see that dogs which require more work are also more rewarding. Everything we achieve with Fred or Frank leaves us full of pride. The boys are the very best of friends and we’re so glad we took the leap into changing Frank from our foster dog to Fred’s big (or little) brother.
\nThe two happiest, kindest, oddest pair of dogs in the world, but the best match!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Freud","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-freud","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b007a55d0c16f8896151eae236ffa703/9a128/freud-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b007a55d0c16f8896151eae236ffa703/f836f/freud-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b007a55d0c16f8896151eae236ffa703/2244e/freud-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b007a55d0c16f8896151eae236ffa703/9a128/freud-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"I got Freud whilst studying to become a psychotherapist – we were studying Freud at the time. I have bipolar, so from a very young age Freud would support me if I felt low or had a panic attack by snuggling into me. He’s now a registered emotional support dog and comes with me when I see clients from ages 5-18 years old.
\n\n\nHe’s a registered emotional support dog
\n
Freud is half Pomeranian and half Chihuahua. He’s full of energy, but also knows when to be calm and cuddly. He loves other people, children and animals and lives with his bunny rabbit brother and sister, Brody and Brienne, who are free to roam my house 24/7. Freud loves them and is really gentle with them, but he does pinch their broccoli in the morning.
\nFreud loves to come kayaking with us and is a little poser in front of the camera. He has posed for local college students and was amazing at it. Freud has made such a positive impact on my life and now he's doing the same thing for my clients. I can't imagine life without him – he's a little star.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Freya","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-freya","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4905c679e69758aa7f788c912ed169ac/f9913/freya-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4905c679e69758aa7f788c912ed169ac/f836f/freya-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4905c679e69758aa7f788c912ed169ac/2244e/freya-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4905c679e69758aa7f788c912ed169ac/f9913/freya-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Freya turned one this week, but she has already had a lot of upheaval in her first year. She was born a stray in Cyprus, and taken in by a charity over there who brought her to England at just a couple of months old. Once here, she was adopted by a young owner – we don’t know much about him other than he sadly passed away very suddenly soon after adopting Freya.
\n\n\nWe couldn’t be more pleased
\n
She ended up in adoption kennels, and shockingly was there for months. Several families came to meet her, but each time they decided she was just too big and lively to be the right fit for them. Although it’s sad that Freya was in kennels for so long as a young pup still developing, it was great news for myself and my partner who eventually found her and took her home.
\nStaff at the kennels warned she was a bit wild, strong on the lead and over-excitable. We couldn’t be more pleased, this didn’t put us off. Freya is the most peaceful, loving, intelligent dog we could imagine. We’ve had her for three months now, and a day hasn’t gone by where we haven’t been flabbergasted by how lucky we are to have her in our lives. We now love cosying up in front of the fire with her every night, and wandering through the countryside and along the coast with her at the weekends. We can’t imagine life without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Fudge","tags":["Adult","Family","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-fudge","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e0eb7dd9d1d3a62f270dadb7c76022a9/f9913/fudge-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e0eb7dd9d1d3a62f270dadb7c76022a9/f836f/fudge-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e0eb7dd9d1d3a62f270dadb7c76022a9/2244e/fudge-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e0eb7dd9d1d3a62f270dadb7c76022a9/f9913/fudge-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Four years ago in September, I suddenly lost my dad to cancer. We didn’t know he had it until a few days before he passed away. I was very close to him and often helped with his shopping, cleaning and gardening. Losing him was a really big shock and it left me in quite a dark place.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s always by my side when I’m feeling low
\n
After this happened, my husband suggested that we get a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, as I’ve been wanting one for years. So, on my birthday in December, we got Fudge! He’s been amazing and he’s always by my side when I’m feeling low. We named him Fudge because when my dad was ill, all he wanted to eat was original fudge! When trying to think of a name for him, it was the perfect choice to remember him by.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Fynn","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-fynn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e891b04da27c23651508c5a55e1abebd/f9913/fynn-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e891b04da27c23651508c5a55e1abebd/f836f/fynn-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e891b04da27c23651508c5a55e1abebd/2244e/fynn-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e891b04da27c23651508c5a55e1abebd/f9913/fynn-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Fynn is our sailing buddy. As a Labrador, he delights in all forms of water!
\n\n\nHe splashes through the waves
\n
Since he was a puppy he has come on board with us on our dinghy, and has always enjoyed every moment of it. We love his company as he splashes through the waves, trying his hardest to catch flotsam and jetsam and make other water users smile.
\nHis company is somewhat less enjoyable in our canoe due to his excited dashes from side to side in order to look over into the water. He is indeed a water dog through and through, and a sail would not be the same without him!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Geezer","tags":["Brave","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-geezer","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8f96d41780059a70c71c86ecc782e24c/f9913/geezer-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8f96d41780059a70c71c86ecc782e24c/f836f/geezer-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8f96d41780059a70c71c86ecc782e24c/2244e/geezer-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8f96d41780059a70c71c86ecc782e24c/f9913/geezer-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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!
\n\n\nHis infectious zest for life
\n
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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet George","tags":["Adult","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-george","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b368b9a950581c9595c1bb989541246e/f9913/george-liz-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b368b9a950581c9595c1bb989541246e/f836f/george-liz-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b368b9a950581c9595c1bb989541246e/2244e/george-liz-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b368b9a950581c9595c1bb989541246e/f9913/george-liz-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"George was the most mischievous pup ever. He was banned from two different dog training classes and the trainer refused to have him. He was also banned from our local pub for trying to bully the landlord’s dog. At home, he chewed through kitchen work tops, chair legs, cushions etc... I could go on.
\nNow, he’s the best boy ever. Our family wouldn’t be without him. At the age of five, he’s already blind in one eye, but it doesn’t hold him back. We just love him.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Georgie","tags":["Small","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-georgie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/be0c24ce6e0837891500007727f20ee0/f9913/georgi-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/be0c24ce6e0837891500007727f20ee0/f836f/georgi-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/be0c24ce6e0837891500007727f20ee0/2244e/georgi-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/be0c24ce6e0837891500007727f20ee0/f9913/georgi-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nGeorge was the most mischievous pup ever
\n
Georgie is a fun-loving and hilarious little character. She loves going on long adventures and exploring new things!
\nShe has been a key part of our family ever since we got her, and she’s helped us so much through lockdown. Her constant joy brightens our day and taking her for walks has helped us to get out and about more too.
\n\n\nHer constant joy brightens our day
\n
She’s such a social butterfly and just adores people. Everyone who meets her falls in love with her straight away – she’s actually made more friends at our local pub than I have!
\nShe’s a great little snuggler and enjoys nothing more than a lie-in and a cuddle on the couch or the bed.
\nShe’s always there for you whatever you need, with a big smile and a constantly wagging tail. I couldn’t imagine ever being without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Geronimo","tags":["Puppy","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-geronimo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4438cb9f3150f0f1aaf4b5c0a96f0bcb/f9913/geronimo-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4438cb9f3150f0f1aaf4b5c0a96f0bcb/f836f/geronimo-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/4438cb9f3150f0f1aaf4b5c0a96f0bcb/2244e/geronimo-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/4438cb9f3150f0f1aaf4b5c0a96f0bcb/f9913/geronimo-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Geronimo or ‘Roni’ as we call him, was one of seven puppies. He has five brothers and one sister. Unfortunately, the litter was rejected by the mother, so the puppies ended up at Last Hope Animal Rescue.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s brought so much to us in such a short amount of time
\n
From there, he and his brother Charlie were fostered by a wonderful woman in Salisbury. She adopted his brother, and we were then lucky enough to adopt Roni!
\nThe whole neighbourhood have met him and have loved welcoming him. He’s brought so much to us in such a short amount of time. After several difficult years of loss (our previous dog, my father, my nanny and my best friend), my neighbours have said, “He’s put a smile back on your face. You look like your old self again!”.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Gibson","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-gibson","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6aed39634f68322b5db9ea6bfc3056fd/f9913/gibson-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6aed39634f68322b5db9ea6bfc3056fd/f836f/gibson-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6aed39634f68322b5db9ea6bfc3056fd/2244e/gibson-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6aed39634f68322b5db9ea6bfc3056fd/f9913/gibson-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I work in a special needs school and regularly do respite work with children who have severe disabilities and autism. Gibson often comes with me because he’s so gentle, and his easy-going nature helps the pupils to feel calmer and more relaxed.
\nHe’ll join us for long walks around the park, and if one of the children his holding the lead he’ll purposely not pull, just so he doesn’t startle them. He knows that he should always stay close and is so perfectly well-behaved every time.
\n\n\nHis easy-going nature helps the pupils
\n
Recently, a child in my care became quite distressed and started crying uncontrollably. Gibson looked concerned, grabbed a toy and lay down with this child until they had calmed down. He even allowed them to stroke his paw which he usually doesn’t enjoy, but I think in this case, he knew how much it was helping.
\nGibson is my hero, and I couldn’t ask for a better companion.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Gimli","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-gimli","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/715af5bb9bf2825878d4aa46716556eb/f9913/gimli-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/715af5bb9bf2825878d4aa46716556eb/f836f/gimli-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/715af5bb9bf2825878d4aa46716556eb/2244e/gimli-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/715af5bb9bf2825878d4aa46716556eb/f9913/gimli-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Gimli is our sixth rehomed dog, and has been with us nearly five years. He's a joy. He loves humans and always invites them to tickle his ears. He also loves playing with the dogs he sees regularly on his walks.
\nHis dedication to sniffing when he's outside always reminds us of a reader with a very good book. My husband now calls his walks ‘going to the library’.
\n\n\n\n\nGimli stops us being empty nesters
\n
Gimli’s my constant companion. When I fractured my femur last June, we had to wait 10.5 hours for an ambulance. For all that time, he sat quietly and supportively by my side, near the fracture. When the ambulance team came, he welcomed them and stood back quietly as they manoeuvred me onto a stretcher and into the ambulance.
\nOur children have flown the nest now to have their own lives (rightly so), but Gimli stops us being empty nesters. He fills the house with fun and welcomes all the affection we used to give the children with genial appreciation.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Gin","tags":["Funny","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-gin","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECBAP/xAAXAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQID/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHLS/XKsixzEFkgf//EABgQAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEhEC/9oACAEBAAEFAuE2oDw6F0XLlkv/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEj/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAR/9oACAECAQE/ASP/xAAdEAABAwUBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAIRECAiMUFh/9oACAEBAAY/Au00FkZ8Rc4wLf/EAB0QAQEAAgEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAETFRIUFhgaH/2gAIAQEAAT8hG1Ojv8jGA+bwE8MAWbWPZIdyYTm//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABBzJ8D/xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIQAQEf/aAAgBAwEBPxAnjjv/xAAYEQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAESEQUf/aAAgBAgEBPxCuDcxn/8QAHRABAQEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBgWGhsf/aAAgBAQABPxC8sPlxLtvyjKYL6yqwR/FXcTSgleuOOsuWp7d0K5MtZwV6xlftv//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cc13577cfcf8dc122d3ff5d1e10af8ef/f9913/gin-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cc13577cfcf8dc122d3ff5d1e10af8ef/f836f/gin-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cc13577cfcf8dc122d3ff5d1e10af8ef/2244e/gin-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cc13577cfcf8dc122d3ff5d1e10af8ef/f9913/gin-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Gin during lockdown, and she injected some colour into my very grey life. She is so fun, sweet and kind, and truly doesn’t have a bad bone in her body
\n\n\nShe injected some colour into my very grey life
\n
When she was just 14 weeks old, I suffered from a broken knee which meant I had to spend a lot of time resting at home. Gin stayed so patiently by my side the whole time. We expected her to get bored and maybe even a bit naughty with all her unspent energy, but she was an absolute dream.
\nNow, Gin is seven months old and I’m fully mobile again, so we’re looking forward to lots of long, relaxing walks together.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ginny","tags":["Support Dogs","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ginny","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b9b78532a12565f2988e850e494914a6/f9913/ginny-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b9b78532a12565f2988e850e494914a6/f836f/ginny-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b9b78532a12565f2988e850e494914a6/2244e/ginny-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b9b78532a12565f2988e850e494914a6/f9913/ginny-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"A few years ago, I lost my wife to a battle with cancer. It had always been our dream to get a dog and so the following January, I went to my local rescue centre. My intention had always been to adopt a German Shepherd – but beautiful, brindled Ginny (who’s a Greyhound-Saluki cross) stole my heart. Two weeks later, she came to live with me.
\n\n\nShe understands my sorrow
\n
The amount she’s helped me to cope with the bereavement and loneliness is immeasurable. She makes me smile, she understands my sorrow and she makes friends wherever she goes.
\nShe’s been quite the ambassador for rescue dogs, appearing on TV and in magazines as well as newspapers. She’s even been to local schools with me, to talk about pets and emotions. She really is the best companion I could ask for.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Gizmo","tags":["Senior","Small"],"slug":"meet-gizmo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f75401c3482edc9a4a632b32f2de1df0/f9913/gizmo-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f75401c3482edc9a4a632b32f2de1df0/f836f/gizmo-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/f75401c3482edc9a4a632b32f2de1df0/2244e/gizmo-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/f75401c3482edc9a4a632b32f2de1df0/f9913/gizmo-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Before getting my pup, Gizmo, I never really understood the whole dog thing. I wondered why are people so obsessed with their pets?
\nThis completely changed when I met Gizmo. She’s my baby, my precious little puppy and my sweet, never-does-a-thing-wrong-in-her-life angel.
\n\n\n\n\nI love her with all my heart
\n
If I could carry her around in a baby carrier on my chest, I would (without embarrassment or hesitation!). In fact, I have more than two thousand photos of her on my phone, and I spend more money on her diet and healthcare needs than I do my own.
\nI pull myself out of bed come rain or shine to take her for a walk each day. She gives me purpose, she makes me happy, and I love her with all my heart!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Goose","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-goose","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ec76e0427e2f743ec926420397aed811/f9913/goose-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ec76e0427e2f743ec926420397aed811/f836f/goose-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ec76e0427e2f743ec926420397aed811/2244e/goose-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ec76e0427e2f743ec926420397aed811/f9913/goose-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Goose is a Cyprus street dog. One of her best qualities is her kindness and intuition – she comes to work with me out on the beach and puts my coaching clients at ease. She’s also a volunteer SAS Rep and a Marine Mammal Medic Search and Rescue Dog.
\nFor SAS, she helps run beach cleans and is extremely patient with all the children. She’s also self-trained in finding ghost fishing nets for us to collect. We bring her to fundraisers too and she acts as a great draw. She is so mellow and relaxed, and people gravitate towards her. When I’m asked what breed she is, I say she is a total mix and that she must be made with 100% love.
\n\n\nOne of her best qualities is her kindness and intuition
\n
For British Divers Marine Life Rescue, we attend callouts to sick and injured seal pups and Goose is brilliant at locating them. Ordinarily we would say keep dogs well away from seals – and to be fair, Goose keeps her distance – but after attending a great many callouts, she must have realised what we were looking for. One evening, we were on the beach in the dark, searching for a seal pup that had been called in with vague location details. We had her on the lead, and after around 45 minutes in the pitch black we were giving up. So, we took her off-lead and saw her blue collar light disappear back to an area we had already searched.
\nShe climbed about ten feet up a rock, then stopped still. As we approached, we saw that ten metres away from her, fast asleep in a rock crevice, was our poorly seal pup. Since then, we have paid a lot more attention to her when out on rescues and she always leads us straight to them, which is a great help when time can be critical. I can say for certain that she’s saved many seal pup lives.
\nGoose is loved by all who meet her and she holds a huge part in our hearts. For a small dog, she has made a lifelong impact on us, and we are eternally grateful to have found each other. She is my hero and teaches me life lessons every day!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Gracie and Sophie","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-gracie-sophie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/51f6653dab2eafb0587f4a5921a2b314/f9913/gracie-sophie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/51f6653dab2eafb0587f4a5921a2b314/f836f/gracie-sophie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/51f6653dab2eafb0587f4a5921a2b314/2244e/gracie-sophie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/51f6653dab2eafb0587f4a5921a2b314/f9913/gracie-sophie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Gracie is a lovely Golden Retriever, who lives with her daughter Sophie. Sophie turned two years old on the first of December, but she didn't take much notice of her birthday celebrations. She was much more interested in chasing the pheasants that roam across the fields near our house – they make a wonderful chucking sound when they leave the ground, and Gracie loves nothing more than to watch her run after them.
\n\n\nDogs are an example to us all
\n
On one occasion, the pair of them decided to chase after a herd of about 50 deer. Of course, they never manage to catch anything, but it is quite entertaining to watch them try!
\nDogs are an example to us all. While we moan and groan, dogs are always positive and happy to be here. In the morning, we have to have a cup of tea or coffee before we can get anything done – but dogs are up with a shake of their head and a wag of their tail, bright and happy whatever the weather and however early it is. We can learn so much from our four-legged best friends.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Graham","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-graham","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/33c5a40c2b625b60e8e887afe44794ca/f9913/graham-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/33c5a40c2b625b60e8e887afe44794ca/f836f/graham-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/33c5a40c2b625b60e8e887afe44794ca/2244e/graham-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/33c5a40c2b625b60e8e887afe44794ca/f9913/graham-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Since Graham has come into my life, he’s inspired me to get out and explore new places, as well as meet new people. I have never been a confident or particularly sociable person but having Graham by my side helps me to feel better and there isn’t anywhere I would go without him!
\nHe’s come with me on a seven-mile-hike around the Peak District, travelled up to my hometown of Sheffield and even comes with me into cafes. Having him has pushed my partner and I to hire a camper van and travel around the Scottish Highlands. It’s always been a dream of mine, and now it’s even more special because he can come along with us!
\n\n\nHelps me to feel better
\n
Graham is a very loving dog and is everyone’s best friend, even if he’s just met them. He is always up for a cuddle and loves giving people a ‘hug’ (where he puts his paw over your arm). I think meeting new people is one of his favourite things, along with food! He loves all food and will shamelessly do tricks for you in an attempt to get some – I haven’t found anything he won’t eat yet, even lettuce!
\nHe’s also a pro at posing for the camera. Because of him photography is now a new hobby of mine, and of course he’s my favourite thing to take photos of. He is such a special dog and I honestly couldn’t imagine my life without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hank","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hank","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9204b164529c8fbe87d97727f06485ed/9a128/hank-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9204b164529c8fbe87d97727f06485ed/f836f/hank-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9204b164529c8fbe87d97727f06485ed/2244e/hank-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9204b164529c8fbe87d97727f06485ed/9a128/hank-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"At a very young age, we discovered Hank was partially blind, with very little to no sight. Hanks has had multiple operations to attempt to correct his vision and many, many vet visits over his short life. He’s faced all his challenges head on, with resilience and positivity, and his tail is constantly wagging.
\n\n\nHe makes us proud every day with how far he has come
\n
Hank has exceeded all the expectations that we had for him. He loves his Wainwright walks off-lead, he loves to swim in the water and play with all his other doggy friends. He’s allowed us to see that no matter what life throws at you, you can overcome it with the right mindset and be just like everyone else.
\nHe makes us proud every day with how far he has come and what a lovely natured boy he’s been throughout it all. He is a firm favourite at his vets, with the nurses continuously complimenting him on his outlook on life. He has quite a fan base! On our bad days, Hank allows us to see the positivity and keeps us going.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Guiness","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-guiness","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cb11f8dfbbb87fd052de54d89bcdbc31/f9913/guiness-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cb11f8dfbbb87fd052de54d89bcdbc31/f836f/guiness-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cb11f8dfbbb87fd052de54d89bcdbc31/2244e/guiness-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cb11f8dfbbb87fd052de54d89bcdbc31/f9913/guiness-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"In 2012, I had a very bad horse riding accident and was hospitalised. When I could return home my little Guiness hadn't seen me in nearly two weeks, so he knew something was wrong.
\nHe wasn't too pushy for fusses or cuddles and wouldn’t get under my feet like he used to. For weeks, he would walk behind me and follow me up the stairs, just to make sure I was always ok. Once, when I did need help, he ran to get my mother by barking at her and leading her towards me.
\n\n\nGuiness has always kept a smile on my face
\n
If he hadn’t looked after me so well and kept me entertained, I don't think I'd have been so quick to recover. I wanted to get better so I could take him for walks again, or even to local dog shows. Guiness has always kept a smile on my face with all his quirks, and I’ll be forever grateful for having a smart and protective companion to look out for me.
\nNowadays, I'm all healed and Guiness has turned into a grumpy old man! He has to have a morning nap and be fed on his schedule with no room for lateness – but he’ll always be my best boy, no matter what.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Stag and Harper","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-stag-and-harper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9ba085a6d2f7cdf130b431df891297b2/f9913/harper-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9ba085a6d2f7cdf130b431df891297b2/f836f/harper-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9ba085a6d2f7cdf130b431df891297b2/2244e/harper-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9ba085a6d2f7cdf130b431df891297b2/f9913/harper-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Stag and Harper are both ex-racing greyhounds. We adopted Stag when he was three years old, after he had broken his leg on a racetrack and been put into rescue. He is the perfect doting, quiet and gentle boy.
\n\n\nThey are the perfect yin and yang and quietly best buddies!
\n
One year after adopting him, we volunteered at his rescue sanctuary, and were asked to foster another three-year-old greyhound for four days over Christmas until her family could collect her. We agreed, but on Boxing Day her new family never showed up. We had her for months and months but no one would adopt her as she had a tiny limp, which was why she got ‘fired’ from racing after coming last in all six of her only races.
\nEventually we gave in and adopted her, becoming failed foster parents. Harper had a tough life being moved from sanctuary to sanctuary and being unsuccessful in finding a home. She is the opposite of Stag – utterly bonkers and needy. But despite her background she is never happier than in the company of any and all humans. They are the perfect yin and yang and quietly best buddies! We’d love to take them away for a little break. Both are super well behaved and a joy to be around.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Harley","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-harley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1b6027f618d35a2846675573e3543721/f9913/harley-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1b6027f618d35a2846675573e3543721/f836f/harley-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1b6027f618d35a2846675573e3543721/2244e/harley-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1b6027f618d35a2846675573e3543721/f9913/harley-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Harley is a Giant Schnauzer crossed with a German Shorthaired Pointer. My husband got him when we found out I was pregnant with my third child, as I already had a six-month-old baby and I was suffering from both pre-natal and post-natal depression. Harley was my distraction and my positive ten minutes of training a day.
\nOur walks always get me out of the house. And on the days I don’t want to go out, he’s with me in the house with the babies! He keeps me grounded and gives me a break when I take him walking. We’ve even started mountain climbing as a family with Harley and the children.
\n\n\nHe can flip his cage and squeeze out of the bottom!
\n
He’s also a Houdini! I’ve never known a dog like him. I padlock his cage in two places overnight because he’s obsessed with licking the butter dish, and he can flip his cage and squeeze out of the bottom!
\nHe’s obsessed with food, especially burgers and sausages, and he’s amazing with the children. My one-year-old will pass him DVDs off our stand one by one, and he brings them to me in his mouth and then goes back for more to play with her! He’s changed our lives so much.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Harry","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-harry-diane","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/365dfb32866b8452263efe13800de8da/f9913/harry-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/365dfb32866b8452263efe13800de8da/f836f/harry-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/365dfb32866b8452263efe13800de8da/2244e/harry-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/365dfb32866b8452263efe13800de8da/f9913/harry-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I used to be my mum’s carer, and after she passed away, I found myself totally lost. Not long after, we adopted Harry from Dogs Trust, and I found my purpose again.
\n\n\nHarry fills my days with fun and laughter
\n
Harry fills my days with fun and laughter. He’s a Cocker Spaniel who is so loving and gentle. Even if I’ve just gone to put the bins out, he greets me as if I’ve beenaway for weeks when I return. He loves being tickled, and stays close by your side if you’re ill or feeling down. He is the loyal companion that I couldn’t be without, and it’s a pleasure waking up to his smiling face every day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Harry","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-harry","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ac981605e91f5564dcefb6943df0217f/f9913/harry-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ac981605e91f5564dcefb6943df0217f/f836f/harry-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ac981605e91f5564dcefb6943df0217f/2244e/harry-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ac981605e91f5564dcefb6943df0217f/f9913/harry-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our dog is a two-year-old Cocker Spaniel called Harry. He loves to be pampered, and will happily sit and let you groom him for hours at a time!
\nHarry is the first dog we’ve had in our family. We got him after my gran died, hoping that he would be a positive presence in our lives and give us something to focus on – and that’s exactly what he’s done. He keeps my mum company while we’re all at work, and is always so fun to be around. He really has transformed our lives.
\n\n\nHe loves to be pampered
\n
Despite being generally very easygoing, he can get stroppy when he wants to, and enjoys barking at strangers as they pass the house. I’m pretty sure he thinks it’s his castle, and that he’s protecting us! He has lots of little quirks, like running around in circles whenever someone he loves comes to the door, or bringing us treats – usually a dog biscuit – when we’ve been away for a while.
\nHarry loves to sleep on my parents’ bed, and even has his own spot on the sofa. He truly is our pampered pooch, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Harry","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-harry-paul","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5c8057b32aaff888d50dc7fb09056238/f9913/harry-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c8057b32aaff888d50dc7fb09056238/f836f/harry-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c8057b32aaff888d50dc7fb09056238/2244e/harry-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c8057b32aaff888d50dc7fb09056238/f9913/harry-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I work in IT, which means I have a very sedate life.After I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes a few years ago, I was encouraged to increase my daily activity. To help with this, we decided to get a dog, and so Harry the English Springer Spaniel bounded into our lives.
\n\n\nHe’s becoming a very friendly pup
\n
Socialisation has been a challenge, as we live in a rural location so Harry doesn’t get to see a lot of people on a daily basis. However, he’s becoming a very friendly pup. He’s never happier than when he’s outside, either exploring in the woods or being my gardening assistant. He especially likes to carry branches to the compost heap or dig out old fenceposts. We really couldn’t imagine life without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Harry","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-harry-tyler","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e3880bb8b918221bcb66d05244f1b608/9a128/harry-tyler-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e3880bb8b918221bcb66d05244f1b608/f836f/harry-tyler-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e3880bb8b918221bcb66d05244f1b608/2244e/harry-tyler-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e3880bb8b918221bcb66d05244f1b608/9a128/harry-tyler-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Harry roughly two months ago from Dogs Trust and, since having him in our life, we feel whole.
\nHarry hadn’t had the easiest start. When he was first donated to Dogs Trust, he was so matted that they didn’t even know if he was a boy or girl. Our poor baby was known as Harriet for a while, until his matted fur was shaved, and they discovered he was in fact a boy!
\n\n\nWe like to think it’s us who saved him, but I think it’s the other way round!
\n
From the first photo we saw of Harry, we knew we had to make him part of our family. It didn’t matter to us that he was an older dog. I think it bothered him more when he had to suffer several hour-long trips back and forth to have six of his teeth removed – he hated the car more than the dentist!
\nHarry has settled in well at home and he completes our family. He is super cheeky and will do anything for a treat. He’ll jump, walk on two legs, doggy paddle with his paws and occasionally try to sneak food off our plates. Being old, he can’t walk too far, but he gets super excited when his dad comes home from work and zooms around the house like a baby. Often when we do go on walks, he will refuse to walk home and has to be carried like a new-born – I think he definitely weighs more though!
\nWe are so grateful that Harry is part of our family. He has brought happiness and wholesomeness to our hearts. We like to think it’s us who saved him, but I think it’s the other way round!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hendrix","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hendrix","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/51fa3fb9f5325f918432d6953532f624/f9913/hendrix-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/51fa3fb9f5325f918432d6953532f624/f836f/hendrix-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/51fa3fb9f5325f918432d6953532f624/2244e/hendrix-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/51fa3fb9f5325f918432d6953532f624/f9913/hendrix-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have dreamt of owning a dog since I was five years old. When I was a kid, I saved my pocket money and bought collars and leads dreaming of one day having a dog to put them on.
\nIt wasn’t until I was 28 that I was finally ready to bring my first ever dog into my life. We were getting married in August 2019, and in March 2019 I saw an advert for Collie puppies. We were told we were mad to get a puppy four months before our wedding, but along came Hendrix in April. We used our honeymoon fund to buy him, so instead of a honeymoon we had a puppymoon!
\nHendrix is a bundle of energy. He is a typical Collie – incredibly clever, always thinking ten steps ahead. For example, if we start getting ready to go out, he will know from our voices and movements whether he is coming with us or not. If he thinks he is, he will go and sit by the front door, but if he thinks he's not he will get up on the sofa and lay down. How he knows I will never understand!
\n\n\nInstead of a honeymoon we had a puppymoon!
\n
We do trick training together and he is now an expert trick dog. We started because he had some hip issues so needed some extra mental stimulation, but we've carried on as he is an absolute natural and loves learning new things! It’s also had wonderful benefits on his mental health too. He is a very anxious lad and this has really built up his confidence.
\nHe has completely and utterly changed our lives. I am disabled and used to lack motivation. I would sleep till gone noon and stay up all night. Now I am up by 8am every day with Hendrix. He wakes me up by licking my wrists every morning and then we start our day of adventures!
\nHe gives me a sense of freedom that I never had before. He also makes us laugh so many times a day with his clumsy silliness. Hendrix is my absolute world and I love him so much!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Harvey","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-harvey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/364e4d3622839d8c515d4993e2b4fe5e/f9913/harvey-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/364e4d3622839d8c515d4993e2b4fe5e/f836f/harvey-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/364e4d3622839d8c515d4993e2b4fe5e/2244e/harvey-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/364e4d3622839d8c515d4993e2b4fe5e/f9913/harvey-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Harvey came into the family as a brother to Diesel (they both have same parents) and as a wedding present. He soon found his place in the home. The ability to fit under the sofa and charge out at your slippers if he had chance kept us on our toes!
\n\n\nA real Jack the lad character
\n
Unfortunately, he was so happy when we came home that the hallway began looking like a crime scene as his wagging tail split, so it was amputated for his welfare. Nowadays it’s all about playing hide and seek, a routine we have to do when we get up and before bed. He will wait patiently before pouncing round and trying to sniff the toy out when hidden. A real Jack the lad character and whirlwind member of our family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Henry","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-henry","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e3b0a933b01c895713b6b38511a78469/f9913/henry-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e3b0a933b01c895713b6b38511a78469/f836f/henry-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/e3b0a933b01c895713b6b38511a78469/2244e/henry-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/e3b0a933b01c895713b6b38511a78469/f9913/henry-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Henry was taken to be put to sleep at six months old as his leg was badly smashed. Luckily, the vet nurse asked for his life to be spared, and after having his front leg amputated, he came to us.
\nHaving three legs has not held Henry back and he’s fearless. In his younger days, he could always outrun our Lurchers. He’s getting old now but he’s still the boss in our house.
\n\n\n\n\nHaving three legs has not held Henry back
\n
He’s welcomed many rescue dogs that we’ve fostered over the years and helped them overcome their fears. Our other dogs respect him and know he’s a special boy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Henry, Billy and Percy","tags":["Adult","Class of 19/23","Support Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-henry-billy-percy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f9815ebcda3e84fa506f46cd0156d490/f9913/henry-billy-percy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f9815ebcda3e84fa506f46cd0156d490/f836f/henry-billy-percy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f9815ebcda3e84fa506f46cd0156d490/2244e/henry-billy-percy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f9815ebcda3e84fa506f46cd0156d490/f9913/henry-billy-percy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Billy is 6, Henry is 1 and Percy is 9 months. My dogs are the best, as are everyone's to their families, but they really proved themselves this last year. In September I fell off my horse and broke my back, resulting in bed and sofa rest for 6 weeks and then some movement.
\n\n\nThey snuggled in closer to comfort me
\n
I am a very active person. I love walking the dogs and being at the yard with the horses and riding. During my 'cage rest' period, my dogs would keep me entertained. They would bring me toys – I'm sure for their benefit rather than mine – to play with, they would snuggle with me and they would guard me and growl at me if I tried to move. It was as if they knew I wasn't allowed to. If I moved they moved.
\nIf I cried when the pain got too much, they snuggled in closer to comfort me. When I was allowed to start my rehab and walking, taking the dogs out was part of that, they were as good as gold, it was like they knew. They didn't mind the fact that I could only go a few steps each day, but always had a wag and never got stroppy. The dogs helped me through a really tough time and helped me mentally to overcome the trauma I was going through.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Herbie","tags":["Family","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-herbie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/01bc6a41ae0e627dc4c555ebbeddd3d0/f9913/herbie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/01bc6a41ae0e627dc4c555ebbeddd3d0/f836f/herbie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/01bc6a41ae0e627dc4c555ebbeddd3d0/2244e/herbie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/01bc6a41ae0e627dc4c555ebbeddd3d0/f9913/herbie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Herbie is a rescue from Beagle Welfare. We adopted him in June 2019 to keep our bereaved dog company. He immediately settled in, though I think he was a bit surprised at how long our walks usually last!
\nHe seems glad to be a part of our household, and we’re so happy to have him. Herbie is adorable and loves everything and everyone. He enjoys stealing dropped items from the floor and will do anything for food. We started dog training classes with him last year, but we had to begin at puppy level. We haven’t made much progress – he’s so cheeky and makes such a spectacle of himself every time, but I think he just loves to be the class clown.
\n\n\nI think he just loves to be the class clown
\n
When he sees other dogs, he likes to play hide and seek, except he doesn’t hide, he just lies down until they come up to him. He won’t move until they do, and we’ve had so many awkward encounters where we’ve had to explain to strangers that Herbie’s waiting for their dog to say hello.
\nHerbie deserved to be part of a family, and now he is living his best life. We are so grateful for him and the way he’s brightened our world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hero","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hero","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5a21091ce1a4d231b0a8666213b824f8/f9913/hero-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5a21091ce1a4d231b0a8666213b824f8/f836f/hero-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5a21091ce1a4d231b0a8666213b824f8/2244e/hero-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5a21091ce1a4d231b0a8666213b824f8/f9913/hero-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Hero, a rescue dog, came into my life after my husband died. I took him in initially to be part of the family and to train up at agility.
\nBut dealing with the death of my husband then took its toll on me and I now find life very hard to deal with. There is so much that I feel unable to do without support – and that support is coming from all my dogs, but especially Hero who is constantly by my side.
\n\n\nIt’s almost as if we’re healing each other
\n
He reads my emotions and responds in the way he feels best. He is now on the way to becoming my emotional support dog. He was such a mess when I took him on, it’s almost as if we’re healing each other. With his help, I hope to get back some normality and I eventually want to see him compete with the rest of our dogs in agility.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Holly","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-holly-jeff","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c2d0902f544b32946c926d4d92ac0c76/f9913/holly-jeff-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c2d0902f544b32946c926d4d92ac0c76/f836f/holly-jeff-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c2d0902f544b32946c926d4d92ac0c76/2244e/holly-jeff-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c2d0902f544b32946c926d4d92ac0c76/f9913/holly-jeff-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Holly allows me to be her guide person. She is totally blind but still does everything with such determination, whether it’s visiting new places, climbing steps or gently nudging me when she wants a cuddle.
\n\n\n\n\nHer strength gives me the determination to keep going
\n
Every new surface she walks on is a challenge, which she courageously accepts. I have stage four prostate cancer and multi-level spinal stenosis, but her strength gives me the determination to keep going.
\nHolly makes me realise that life is a challenge, but we can all overcome whatever it throws our way, as long as we have the support of someone special. Holly has become my someone very special. Every day is a new adventure.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Holly","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-holly","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ab27904a7b2ccb29ceefc7fc9e041e04/f9913/holly-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ab27904a7b2ccb29ceefc7fc9e041e04/f836f/holly-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ab27904a7b2ccb29ceefc7fc9e041e04/2244e/holly-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ab27904a7b2ccb29ceefc7fc9e041e04/f9913/holly-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We brought our rescue dog Holly, a collie cross, home on 17 December 2005 when she was about one year old. She was very jumpy and bouncy and her tail wagged in a circle. 14 years later she's a grand old lady and has to cope with an awful lot.
\n\n\nShe's the love of my life
\n
She has fatty lumps which make it uncomfortable to lie down, she has a sebaceous cyst on her neck which she lets us clean and bandage, under sufferance, every day. She is losing her hearing but has adapted quickly to hand gestures instead. She has arthritis, she has episodes of vestibular disease and recently we have discovered that she has heart disease too. So these days she isn't so jumpy and bouncy, but she's still so affectionate and loving, faithful, gentle, placid, laid back and beautiful.
\nShe'll still rip the post up if she gets there first and can be stubborn and contrary. She doesn't like the rain, and she's happiest exploring the garden, eating her tea or her favourite game sausages, sleeping or having big cuddles. She loves being pampered at the groomers, which is a real treat for her that she thoroughly deserves. She's a real battler and as long as she's got her favourite things – and all her medication – she's happy. She's the love of my life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Holly","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-holly-jill","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3f2ed3bc8cecb9f5ef33553774a62e92/f9913/holly-jill-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3f2ed3bc8cecb9f5ef33553774a62e92/f836f/holly-jill-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/3f2ed3bc8cecb9f5ef33553774a62e92/2244e/holly-jill-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/3f2ed3bc8cecb9f5ef33553774a62e92/f9913/holly-jill-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We were devastated by the loss of our previous dog last December, but in February we spotted Holly on a RSPCA website.
\nAt seven months old she had never lived in a home and was very nervous. She was challenging at first, but very loving.
\n\n\n\n\nHolly has won over plenty of new friends
\n
Holly has changed our lives, giving us a reason to get up in the morning and exercise regularly.
\nShe’s energetic and fun-loving, but still a little shy when it comes to meeting new people and is occasionally spooked by new experiences.
\nHolly has won over plenty of new friends in the village, as they’ve witnessed her grow from a timid pup to a lovely, confident dog. We are looking forward to sharing many happy years with her!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Holly and Toby","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-holly-toby","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/38cc52de53a697766da38cd54771497e/f9913/holly-toby-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/38cc52de53a697766da38cd54771497e/f836f/holly-toby-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/38cc52de53a697766da38cd54771497e/2244e/holly-toby-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/38cc52de53a697766da38cd54771497e/f9913/holly-toby-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I never really wanted a dog, but my wife insisted. “It will get you out and about”, she said. I had started to become a home bird because my diabetes affected my feet and the pain was terrible. It definitely didn’t do anything to inspire me to go out.
\nFirst we got Holly, a beautiful Westie pup who was no trouble at all. Then came Toby – he was only seven months old, but we were his third owners. It soon became obvious that he had never been socialised. So, that gave me a good reason to get out of the house.
\n\n\nAt 80 years of age, I now have a great time out and about
\n
At 80 years of age, I now have a great time out and about. Holly likes to sit on my knee and use the horn of my mobility scooter, whereas Toby loves to walk beside me. I have met so many new people and they always stop to talk to me and pet the dogs.
\nLife has now become a great adventure with my two furbabies. They have helped me so much. Without them, I would never have left the house. But now I’m often seen exploring the roads on a daily basis with my companions at my side.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Holly","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-holly-sam","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAv/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABjqh0MmS6KsCiDf/EABwQAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxEABCEzQf/aAAgBAQABBQKNS0kmsACtGPscUaOetjcH/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEf/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAH/2gAIAQIBAT8BIf/EABwQAAEEAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAhEhEDFBYf/aAAgBAQAGPwIR1U4z6FtDlp5lUcOx/8QAGxABAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAhMRFBcZH/2gAIAQEAAT8hOMLYEv8ArScwPxG0sLR3exV5ZIY9iVu0zoz/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEF/QA//EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8QYiv/xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREQ/9oACAECAQE/EFCa/8QAHRABAQACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBUWGBsf/aAAgBAQABPxA6pIrgO3HogqRkezj7gXROxRwl9IKM5ce7wy8Gay2D3R/caQ8MAGQgXrNw1Hcz/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f450e03e2bc7748645edf9d13f4ed8b9/f9913/holly-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f450e03e2bc7748645edf9d13f4ed8b9/f836f/holly-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f450e03e2bc7748645edf9d13f4ed8b9/2244e/holly-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f450e03e2bc7748645edf9d13f4ed8b9/f9913/holly-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Holly is a seven-year-old English Sheepdog. She has been there for me through thick and thin. Around seven years ago, I was severely ill with a mental health condition and had to be hospitalised. Holly was my motivation for getting better and helped me find joy in life again.
\n\n\nHolly was my motivation for getting better
\n
She is there for me unconditionally, always giving me cuddles and kisses when I need them and making me smile with her funny antics. For instance, Holly thinks she is a tiny dog and loves to sit on people’s laps, but doesn’t seem to realise how large and clumsy she is!
\nHolly hasn’t had it easy and has needed surgery in the past, but despite all she has been through she remains a happy, playful girl who gives me all the love and joy in the world. I am so lucky to have her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Honey","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-honey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/42eb8d88da59c0fbb61a27e4084d8e38/f9913/honey-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/42eb8d88da59c0fbb61a27e4084d8e38/f836f/honey-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/42eb8d88da59c0fbb61a27e4084d8e38/2244e/honey-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/42eb8d88da59c0fbb61a27e4084d8e38/f9913/honey-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Honey when she was just three months old. She has a very unique personality and hates all other female dogs but is very friendly with people.
\n\n\nShe has a very unique personality
\n
Honey has kept my husband and I sane during lockdown, and together we’ve discovered new walks and how therapeutic it can be to spend time outdoors. Honey is getting old now and so we can’t walk as far as we usedto, but we still have a lot of fun together. She loves playing ball and especially enjoys being around water.
\nHoney also has a cheeky side and is not afraid to let you know when she wants food!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Honey","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Funny"],"slug":"meet-honey-rebecca","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/23e30c511faa1e1d9ec24babab1bc039/f9913/honey-rebecca-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/23e30c511faa1e1d9ec24babab1bc039/f836f/honey-rebecca-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/23e30c511faa1e1d9ec24babab1bc039/2244e/honey-rebecca-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/23e30c511faa1e1d9ec24babab1bc039/f9913/honey-rebecca-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"From the moment my Labrador Honey entered my life, everything changed for the better.
\nShe’s a bundle of energy with a wagging tail that never stops and a love for adventure that we both share.
\n\n\n\n\nI’m so grateful to have such an amazing companion by my side
\n
One of my favourite memories is when she first discovered the joy of swimming. We were at the lake, and after some hesitation, Honey finally leapt into the water, splashing around with pure delight. It was in that moment I realised just how much joy a dog could bring into my life.
\nEvery day with Honey is a new adventure filled with love, loyalty, and endless tail wags. I’m so grateful to have such an amazing companion by my side.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hope","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hope","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4282c5834a217d9a9f54bda8cf97a40b/f9913/hope-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4282c5834a217d9a9f54bda8cf97a40b/f836f/hope-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4282c5834a217d9a9f54bda8cf97a40b/2244e/hope-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4282c5834a217d9a9f54bda8cf97a40b/f9913/hope-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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!
\nAs 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.
\n\n\nShe tries to herd us around the house
\n
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.
\nShe 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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hope","tags":["Adorable","Family","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hope-launa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUCA//EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB7yKEeW2DMQSqN4//xAAdEAACAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMEABESEzEy/9oACAEBAAEFArDmNDK+1JZbO2Dgg1yOmT59wtxz/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASD/2gAIAQMBAT8BY//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEg/9oACAECAQE/ASP/xAAeEAACAQMFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARECEBIhIjFBUf/aAAgBAQAGPwLby+ycmJixNSmXF0l4f//EABsQAQADAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAETEhQWFR/9oACAEBAAE/IR+VrxAWI+sL4Fnc4yENLlT18iebVG3Liqt1Y4IVH//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQZA//AP/EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABQRD/2gAIAQMBAT8QS5Bn/8QAGREAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQETFB/9oACAECAQE/EKQ2iH//xAAdEAEBAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMVFBcZHB/9oACAEBAAE/ECNupPCX7kUA6o33cJvG7JcI6Mw2rx+5Y2sXpmn7QD0LMMBcpbvU3lHqCveTwxgnGf/Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7b93979ede82077d906ac02329629070/f9913/hope-launa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7b93979ede82077d906ac02329629070/f836f/hope-launa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7b93979ede82077d906ac02329629070/2244e/hope-launa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7b93979ede82077d906ac02329629070/f9913/hope-launa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I lost my job 11 years ago, about the same time Hope was born. My brother gave her to me, so I had a reason to get out of bed in the mornings and she has certainly lived up to her name. Occasionally she is Hopeful or Hopeless too!
\nShe’s the most chilled out dog I’ve ever known and we take her everywhere with us. In 2016, we had the opportunity to go travelling for six months around Spain and Portugal. Hope came too of course.
\n\n\nShe’s the most chilled out dog I’ve ever known and we take her everywhere with us
\n
We based ourselves in the Algarve and travelled around via public transport. She was always so well behaved that the train conductor would ask us why we had bought three tickets to travel (you pay for dogs there too). We always had to point her out, chilled or asleep at our feet.
\nWhenever we played stick or ball by the sea, we would gain a crowd as the locals have a different relationship with their dogs in the Algarve and were not used to them being so playful. Hope has stayed in Airbnbs across Portugal and never a whisper. The above photo is from Lisbon, which we adored, with Hope taking the crowds in her stride.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hopper","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hopper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/682be91193bf4d5ce05653ae7d513667/f9913/hopper-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/682be91193bf4d5ce05653ae7d513667/f836f/hopper-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/682be91193bf4d5ce05653ae7d513667/2244e/hopper-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/682be91193bf4d5ce05653ae7d513667/f9913/hopper-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Hopper six months ago. He is a Galgo from Spain and was rescued just before Christmas last year. He was taken to Galga del Sol, a charity I am involved with. After a visit to the vets, an x-ray revealed that his leg had been broken so badly it would need to be amputated.
\n\n\nHe has really come out of his shell!
\n
It was touch and go after the surgery, but with intense nursing and care he turned a corner and started to improve. We adopted him officially at the end of March this year. At first, he was really timid and scared of people but over the last six months he has really come out of his shell!
\nWe fundraise for this charity and he comes along with us – he has become a bit of an ambassador in my local area. He now loves attention from people and has become a gorgeous, goofy hound who makes us laugh every day and does not let the disability of missing a leg hold him back at all!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hudson","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hudson","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a8f5c495a2edcfd92bf796c98c9a633b/f9913/hudson-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a8f5c495a2edcfd92bf796c98c9a633b/f836f/hudson-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a8f5c495a2edcfd92bf796c98c9a633b/2244e/hudson-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a8f5c495a2edcfd92bf796c98c9a633b/f9913/hudson-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Hudson is the joy of mine and my partners’ lives. He is a rescue street dog from Romania and a cross between a Border Collie and a Labrador. His personality just shines and astounds us every single day, especially when it comes to food. He is honestly the most food-orientated dog ever, he would do anything for a little bit of cheese or chicken!
\nHe has many quirks that seem to get weirder and weirder, but of course make him cuter every day. He barks and runs in his sleep, and even dribbles so much that it drops onto the floor just before being given his night-time biscuit.
\n\n\nHis intelligence astounds me
\n
His intelligence astounds me, we have bought him numerous puzzles for dogs where you hide treats on all levels, and he has figured out every single one of them within three minutes or under!
\nHe loves his naps and gets super grumpy when woken, which is just so adorable. I wouldn’t consider getting another dog that wasn’t a rescue, these dogs have so much love to give and you can tell how much he appreciates us on a daily basis. Rescuing a dog is amazing and so rewarding, I am so glad to have my Hudson!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Hugo","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-hugo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2c73968c51a947309cd51fa27aaf5a2f/f9913/hugo-grace-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2c73968c51a947309cd51fa27aaf5a2f/f836f/hugo-grace-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2c73968c51a947309cd51fa27aaf5a2f/2244e/hugo-grace-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2c73968c51a947309cd51fa27aaf5a2f/f9913/hugo-grace-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Hugo is a typical terrier, into everything and certainly has selective hearing at times 😆. But he also has the quirkiest personality and constantly makes us laugh. He stands on his hind legs like a meerkat, he does the sploot like a frog and rolls around on his back like a turtle stuck on its back.
\n\n\nHe shown us that even a tough start in life can’t hold you back
\n
Being a Dogs Trust rescue, he didn’t have the best start to life, but since we adopted Hugo he’s always there for us after a hard day in the office or when you just need a laugh or cuddle. He gets us out of the house and kick started our fitness journey. He shown us that even a tough start in life can’t hold you back.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Iggy","tags":["Small","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-iggy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDBAEF/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIA/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAH0MXIS60FTVSDtDv/EABwQAAICAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDAREAEiETMf/aAAgBAQABBQJrNFkW2QuCi/TCGwXFB8FPUxHP/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEf/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAgEBPwEf/8QAHRAAAgICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAIQISEDFRIv/aAAgBAQAGPwLaYbWE3GDU++vI3WI6gDmR8mTuxx//xAAbEAEAAwEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFhcf/aAAgBAQABPyGygikpRzv5DOtG28eZ8/zfURy+RaQLGTomnaWDpP/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQKPd+/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASD/2gAIAQMBAT8QI//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAhARBB/9oACAECAQE/EJQja//EAB8QAQACAwABBQAAAAAAAAAAAAERMQAhQVFhcZGx0f/aAAgBAQABPxAIw1qWjVx32wbSRkVceKw0jQrH7k1QJ4jy+v1kOkrovg+YMm0iTel2mnzlghyO4nVgAq7gInRQ5//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ec2ad037f5de045ff56efb3831865fec/f9913/iggy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ec2ad037f5de045ff56efb3831865fec/f836f/iggy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ec2ad037f5de045ff56efb3831865fec/2244e/iggy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ec2ad037f5de045ff56efb3831865fec/f9913/iggy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Iggy is a Beagle cross who loves other dogs but can be a little shy with new people. She’s a typical beagle, mischievous and noisy – if you talk to Iggy she talks back. Her favourite pastimes are sniffing, digging, zoomies, playing ball, smothering her cat brother with kisses and stealing anything that will fit in her mouth and running away as fast as she can.
\nIggy adores her family and squeals with joy whenever any of us come home, even if we’ve only been gone for five minutes. She can’t just wag her tail, she wags with her whole body. Iggy is very goofy, playful and always on the go, but she also appreciates a good nap with her blanket. It’s amazing how she can go from flat out galloping to fast asleep in the blink of an eye.
\nIggy is the baby of our family and her big doughy puppy dog eyes and huge floppy ears make it impossible to be annoyed with her even when she’s being cheeky. To us Iggy is perfect and we love her very much flaws and all.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Indi","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-indi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMBAgT/xAAYAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDBP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB6ihnXtRVmTJmhL//xAAXEAADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIR/9oACAEBAAEFAiaemkvKGSNn/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEf/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAx/9oACAECAQE/AREIv//EABkQAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBEgUf/aAAgBAQAGPwKYUbXuv//EABwQAAMBAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESExUUFhcf/aAAgBAQABPyG5rg+0B0hGOaI0Pgqfk6ehY2QeQ//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQ9ziC/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEREP/aAAgBAwEBPxClHn//xAAYEQEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMQERIf/aAAgBAgEBPxC3GlGI/8QAHRABAQADAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBYXGB4f/aAAgBAQABPxC+BTR2ZJKPbbP3Frr9Y0hoqXme4Q4N0+e8UHwwEFCcxiABLzP/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/30bcd9935d309776f759713aede62028/f9913/indi-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/30bcd9935d309776f759713aede62028/f836f/indi-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/30bcd9935d309776f759713aede62028/2244e/indi-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/30bcd9935d309776f759713aede62028/f9913/indi-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nShe can’t just wag her tail, she wags with her whole body
\n
Indi is a Weimaraner who we rescued from a dogs’ home four years ago. It immediately became clear that she was a real lady, as she showed a preference for soft carpet and a tendency to sit with her front paws crossed.
\n\n\n\n\nWe still can’t comprehend how she ended up in a home
\n
She was initially incredibly wary of people and other dogs, but over the years she’s become increasingly social and now loves nothing better than a pack walk. She comes everywhere with us and adores the hospitality of local restaurants and pubs.
\nHer favourite is doggy tapas (her tastes are quite upmarket). But while she appears a true lady, she has the eating habits of an absolute pig and takes an ‘eat now and ask questions later’ approach.
\nIndi has brought an incredible amount of joy to our lives, and we still can’t comprehend how she ended up in a home. She is one in a million.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Indie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-indie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1e77b74d11d2f0bb0ad480960d49f8c5/f9913/indie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1e77b74d11d2f0bb0ad480960d49f8c5/f836f/indie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1e77b74d11d2f0bb0ad480960d49f8c5/2244e/indie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1e77b74d11d2f0bb0ad480960d49f8c5/f9913/indie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Indie is a family dog. She absolutely loves our children, especially when they let her on the sofa for early morning cuddles.She also enjoys long walks in the woods when it’s dry and occasionally the beach too, although she isn’t a fan of the sea, or any water for that matter.
\n\n\nOften ends up licking people in the face
\n
I wish I had kept a diary of everything Indie destroyed when she was a puppy. She was such a heavy chewer and sometimes you just couldn’t catch her in time.There was one infamous occasion when we were settingup my son’s new tent, and as we stood back to admire it, Indie put her jaws around the guide rope and brought the whole thing down!
\nIndie gets a lot of attention, which she loves, but she doesn’t quite know how to handle herself, and often ends up licking people in the face – she’s especially partial to those with beards. It’s always a challenge trying to keep from scaring away strangers in the park.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Indie","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-indie-lena","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/de832239510a5d130163d3208cc72b6a/f9913/indie-lena-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/de832239510a5d130163d3208cc72b6a/f836f/indie-lena-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/de832239510a5d130163d3208cc72b6a/2244e/indie-lena-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/de832239510a5d130163d3208cc72b6a/f9913/indie-lena-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I rescued Indie when she was six months old. By then, we were already her third owners. She’s a Great Dane Labrador cross and she’s going to be 13 in April.
\n\n\n\n\nI’ve had many wonderful years with her
\n
She was certainly a challenge and we shed a lot of tears. My husband at the time even wanted to rehome her. But she’s such a character and I’ve had many wonderful years with her since.
\nShe’s one of seven dogs that I own currently. Six of them are rescues from Apollo’s Angels, which is a charity in Cyprus I’ve been involved in running for the last 10 years. We’ve now rehomed more than 1,200 abandoned hunting dogs from Cyprus to the UK. This July will be the charity’s 10th anniversary.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Indy","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-indy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cb97ce963685ba150d7a3b4ba36d57ac/f9913/indy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cb97ce963685ba150d7a3b4ba36d57ac/f836f/indy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cb97ce963685ba150d7a3b4ba36d57ac/2244e/indy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cb97ce963685ba150d7a3b4ba36d57ac/f9913/indy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Indy is a huge part of my life, even though he's only been with us for four months! He's an important part of our family and I couldn't imagine life without him
\nThis year, I’ve been working from home all day, while my partner still goes into his office. It can get lonely sometimes, but Indy is always there to put a smile on my face, whether that be by zooming around the house or playing tug of war with me!
\n\n\nAlways there to put a smile on my face
\n
Indy is very well trained. He’ll always sit on command and is often complimented for his politeness and charm (if he sees a woman walking towards him when we're out, he always sits for her!). He really is the best thing that’s has ever happened to us.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ivy","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ivy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/59bcb0529cc62790a8c43903f86e0a4e/f9913/ivy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/59bcb0529cc62790a8c43903f86e0a4e/f836f/ivy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/59bcb0529cc62790a8c43903f86e0a4e/2244e/ivy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/59bcb0529cc62790a8c43903f86e0a4e/f9913/ivy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ivy in nature is a wild plant that winds its way, gripping onto surfaces it comes into contact with. My Ivy dog is dependable and perseverant, always beside me on my journey, entangled in each other’s lives just like the plant.
\nArriving when I had lost all hope, in the depths of mental illness crisis, her dependable companionship provided me with the reassurance and safety I was so desperately seeking. She has helped me feel grounded through continued distress from mental ill health, a constant physical reminder that she needs me.
\n\n\nSitting cosy in bed sharing some marmalade on toast before we start the day is one of her favourites
\n
She looks back up at me constantly checking in, a calming influence. She aided my return, and her introduction to being active, living and loving outdoor adventures. Biking, paddling, walking, climbing, she’ll go where I go and I feel I’ve lost something when she’s not there. We look out for one another, swimming rapids to help each other.
\nHaving PTSD often means that nights can be filled with colourful lifelike dreams. Ivy sleeps touching me, often a nose or paw in the face as she wriggles to be comfy. Her presence and understanding comforts me. We share many special moments but sitting cosy in bed sharing some marmalade on toast before we start the day is one of her favourites.
\nShe not only helps me but is a companion and presence within a special needs school that we work at together. Ivy is just 16 months of age, but her maturity keeps her steady in temperament and character. I look forward to many more adventures together in the\nfuture.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Izzy","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-izzy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/07a60d5fdb9379daffef646e2bf011c8/f9913/izzy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/07a60d5fdb9379daffef646e2bf011c8/f836f/izzy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/07a60d5fdb9379daffef646e2bf011c8/2244e/izzy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/07a60d5fdb9379daffef646e2bf011c8/f9913/izzy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\n\n\nShe always puts a smile on my face
\n
Izzy is just amazing and has an enthusiasm for everything in life – especially playing with other dogs!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jack Daniels","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jack-daniels","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/df07a3ff67e3d58cfa9d68f2e8cdb529/f9913/jd-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/df07a3ff67e3d58cfa9d68f2e8cdb529/f836f/jd-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/df07a3ff67e3d58cfa9d68f2e8cdb529/2244e/jd-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/df07a3ff67e3d58cfa9d68f2e8cdb529/f9913/jd-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We adopted JD as a 14-week-old puppy. His previous owner had only had him for five days before deciding it was too much effort to have a dog. The minute he met our daughter, who is autistic with specific learning difficulties, he instantly seemed to know that she needed calmness.
\n\n\nHe’s such a natural therapy dog
\n
He does not leave her side when she’s home, and picks up on the signs she is overwhelmed. He lies by her and sticks his head in her hands. At night he sleeps by her bed and when she wakes at night, he lies on top of her. The pressure of him seems to send her back to sleep. He’s such a natural therapy dog.
\nHe is also a crazy young dog who is ball-obsessed and also likes helping dig at the allotment. I can’t believe how lucky we have been to find such a wonderful dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jake","tags":["Senior","Small","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jake","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/dfbb9edccf6098b095d49d631ea0e385/f9913/jake-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dfbb9edccf6098b095d49d631ea0e385/f836f/jake-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/dfbb9edccf6098b095d49d631ea0e385/2244e/jake-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/dfbb9edccf6098b095d49d631ea0e385/f9913/jake-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jake, our Jack Russell x Whippet, is the love of our lives, the apple of our eyes and an irrepressible bundle of fun and noise! We rescued him from the RSPCA 14 years ago, when he was about two and half years old. He had been mistreated, so he was a terrified, shivering wreck, and a shadow of the loving, confident dog he was to become.
\nHe was frightened of everything, showed fear aggression and couldn’t bear to see us hugging, as he thought we were hurting each other. He didn’t know how to play ball and was terrified if he knocked anything over.
\n\n\n\n\nHe has taught us all the value of patience, kindness and trust
\n
Now he’s definitely the king of the castle and the boss of us! He is front and centre of everything that happens in our home. He steals all the cushions on the settee and takes up all the room on our bed. He has six dog beds and a sheepskin rug, so he can be warm and comfy, wherever he is in the house.
\nAt 15, Jake still chases his tail and is really playful. He enjoys walks and shouting at all the local dogs. He has a ton of soft toys, but his favourites are a long-necked duck he loves to throw around and bark at, and a cross-eyed mouse called Mr Twister. He’s feisty and fearless and very, very vocal! But, most of all, he is very loving and affectionate. He loves cuddles and belly rubs and hates being left, which happens very rarely.
\nLast year, we found a lump on Jake, and we were distraught. But we’re very blessed as it turned out to be okay. This year, we’ve found out that Jake has a heart murmur. He’s just started medication, which we hope will help control it, and keep him happy and healthy for as long as possible. He has taught us all the value of patience, kindness and trust. We are so lucky to have him. Put simply, he loves us, and we love him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Janey","tags":["Adult","Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-janey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/255283162c4d41220b302698bdb0f6f4/f9913/janey-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/255283162c4d41220b302698bdb0f6f4/f836f/janey-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/255283162c4d41220b302698bdb0f6f4/2244e/janey-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/255283162c4d41220b302698bdb0f6f4/f9913/janey-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our Janey is a rescue dog from Romania, who was saved from living life on the streets and brought to the UK by Blind Dog Rescue UK. She had experienced dreadful cruelty and was fostered by a wonderful lady in Derby.
\n\n\n\n\nShe brightens my day every day
\n
We drove from Essex to Derby to collect her. She was very quiet at first but soon settled in with us and our cats. She’s cheeky, funny and very cuddly. Our cats trust her, and my grandchildren adore her.
\nShe’s so gentle and sweet-natured despite her rough start in life. She’s very precious to us and brightens my day every day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jarvis","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jarvis","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7e897edd94f5ec4ddfd1cde47540b0fd/f9913/jarvis-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7e897edd94f5ec4ddfd1cde47540b0fd/f836f/jarvis-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7e897edd94f5ec4ddfd1cde47540b0fd/2244e/jarvis-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7e897edd94f5ec4ddfd1cde47540b0fd/f9913/jarvis-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jarvis is such a character, he always makes me smile!
\nHe likes a lot of cuddles and kisses, and thinks he's very funny when he leaps onto the sofa and then bounces and gives you a kiss on the nose, even though I end up spilling a lot of tea! He will not get up to get a biscuit, but expects them to be brought to him.
\n\n\nGives you a kiss on the nose
\n
When he was a puppy we use to play a game called ‘put the puppy in the box’ – I would sit on the floor with a box and Jarvis would run and bark at me. I would say ‘put the puppy in the box’ and he would run off but he would keep coming back barking – he loved it!
\nHe likes to go for walks and is always popular with people we meet – and he knows it! He loves it when people stop to give him a cuddle. He is our first dachshund and he has been amazing.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jasper","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jasper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/27aedadbd725322d5eaccddc0d28ed0e/f9913/jasper-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/27aedadbd725322d5eaccddc0d28ed0e/f836f/jasper-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/27aedadbd725322d5eaccddc0d28ed0e/2244e/jasper-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/27aedadbd725322d5eaccddc0d28ed0e/f9913/jasper-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jasper started out life being trained with Canine Partners, a charity which provides assistance dogs for people with disabilities. When he was a year old, he went to ‘big school’, which was an advanced training centre in West Sussex. As he’s quite shy, he started to struggle and it didn’t seem like the right fit for him. Eventually he was put up for adoption, and as I was on a waiting list I received a call asking me if I’d be interested in meeting him.
\nTo cut a long story short, I fell in love with him straight away. I said I'd like to trial him just to make sure we were a good fit, but I don’t think it took longer than a day for me to realise we were meant to be!
\n\n\nHe has most certainly transformed my life
\n
Jasper settled in amazingly, and the past four years with him have been such a joy – although, I don’t think I really appreciated just what a difference he’s made to my life until recently. He might not be my assistance dog, but he has most certainly transformed my life.
\nNot too long ago, I suffered from a miscarriage. Physically, I was ok but mentally I have really been suffering. Jasper has made everything so much more bearable. He’s always there for me, happy to cuddle on the sofa or go on a long walk to soak up the fresh air. Every morning, he greets me with his funny Labrador sneezes (as they do) and his flappy ear shake. He gives me a purpose to get up and out of the house, and he’s even brought my partner and I closer together during this tough time.
\nI could not have been without him these past few months and I will never forget the kindness that he’s shown me. He’s so gorgeous and truly the most affectionate, caring dog I could ever ask for – even if he does leave black hairs all over the house!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jasper","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family"],"slug":"meet-jasper-ann","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8eb9e78ce902dc75100ddbe6b916f9eb/f9913/jasper-ann-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8eb9e78ce902dc75100ddbe6b916f9eb/f836f/jasper-ann-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/8eb9e78ce902dc75100ddbe6b916f9eb/2244e/jasper-ann-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/8eb9e78ce902dc75100ddbe6b916f9eb/f9913/jasper-ann-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got Jasper at a very difficult point in my life. My mum had just passed away from cancer, I’d lost my old Labrador after 12 and a half years, and I was recovering from major spinal surgery, too.
\nDuring this time, Jasper was a breath of fresh air and gave me a reason to push onwards in life.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s the most beautiful little soul
\n
I’ve since had a second spinal operation, and he’s become my carer of sorts. He picks up items for me when I can’t bend down, he gives the best snuggles when I need them, and he makes me smile every single day!
\nJasper’s also helping me to walk again – giving me a reason to get up and go places, which has also helped me lose a considerable amount of weight.
\nHe’s the most beautiful little soul and my life wouldn’t have been worth living without my best friend and companion. I love him more than anything in the world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jasper","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jasper-christine","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1148a7b6ba1b7980fe21bd80b74b97a9/f9913/jasper-christine-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1148a7b6ba1b7980fe21bd80b74b97a9/f836f/jasper-christine-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1148a7b6ba1b7980fe21bd80b74b97a9/2244e/jasper-christine-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1148a7b6ba1b7980fe21bd80b74b97a9/f9913/jasper-christine-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I am a strong believer that things happen for a reason. In November 2015, I was driving home on the motorway when, all of a sudden, I was involved in a horrendous accident.
\nAn HGV collided with my car, and I was dragged side-on down the motorway. I was extremely lucky to have walked away without any broken bones. However, I suffered from PTSD and severe anxiety from the trauma.
\n\n\n\n\nHe helped me to get out the house and overcome my anxiety
\n
Around that time, my partner's dog had a litter of pups. From the get-go, Jasper was drawn to me and I to him – we were like magnets. I loved him so much. He’s so caring and helped me to get out the house and overcome my anxiety.
\nToday, he’s still my 'cuddle puppy,' and I now also have his daughter. Both of them bring so much joy to my life and I am so grateful to have them.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jasper and Teddie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jasper-teddie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e3599f05e685deada8ade155c6e17ff0/f9913/jesper-teddie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e3599f05e685deada8ade155c6e17ff0/f836f/jesper-teddie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e3599f05e685deada8ade155c6e17ff0/2244e/jesper-teddie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e3599f05e685deada8ade155c6e17ff0/f9913/jesper-teddie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jasper was our first ever rescue dog. He has so many little quirks and funny habits. He likes to sing – or howl – along to any music he hears. He also tries to eat any post that comes through the letterbox, and can bounce extremely high, like a kangaroo! This is funny because he has no sense of how tiny he actually is. Despite his size, he’s very confident and likes to protect our other dog, Teddie, whenever we’re all out on a walk together.
\n\n\nThey’ve kept us going through lockdown
\n
Teddie the Zuchon is boisterous and fast, but also very clumsy. He adores Jasper and spends most of his time either cuddling up to him or pestering the life out of him. Teddie likes to do tricks, such as throwing his toy up in the air and then catching it – though, he’s not always very good, and often Jasper manages to snatch it first.
\nBoth dogs have brought so much love and hilarity into our lives. They’ve kept us going through lockdown, and definitely take care of us as much as we do them.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jax","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jax","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/78ac4f78613806b55db91180ffe5ff29/f9913/jax-header-sep21.jpg","srcSet":"/static/78ac4f78613806b55db91180ffe5ff29/f836f/jax-header-sep21.jpg 200w,\n/static/78ac4f78613806b55db91180ffe5ff29/2244e/jax-header-sep21.jpg 400w,\n/static/78ac4f78613806b55db91180ffe5ff29/f9913/jax-header-sep21.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jax is the happiest, craziest dog I have ever met.He has an abundance of energy, but as soon as one of our young children enters the room, he’ll instantly calm down and settle with them.
\n\n\nHe loves everyone and everything
\n
I had a serious accident not long after adopting Jax, and though I was still fairly new to him, he never left my side. He loves everyone and everything, including our other dogs and cats. He’s even great friends with our rabbit!
\nI have always been canine-crazy and very close to all my past dogs, but I’ve never had a bond as special as the one I have with Jax. He’s my sidekick, my rock and my very best friend.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jaxson","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jaxson","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5616972d630925a86ffc5c48cfa6b065/f9913/jaxson-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5616972d630925a86ffc5c48cfa6b065/f836f/jaxson-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5616972d630925a86ffc5c48cfa6b065/2244e/jaxson-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5616972d630925a86ffc5c48cfa6b065/f9913/jaxson-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\n\n\nHe has completely changed our lives
\n
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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jeffrey","tags":["Senior","Small","Family"],"slug":"meet-jeffrey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/bda88f03a02ecb86e47f59537872b8c7/f9913/jeffrey-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bda88f03a02ecb86e47f59537872b8c7/f836f/jeffrey-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/bda88f03a02ecb86e47f59537872b8c7/2244e/jeffrey-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/bda88f03a02ecb86e47f59537872b8c7/f9913/jeffrey-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jeffrey, our beloved Miniature Schnauzer, became part of our family as a companion to our teenage son.
\nAt the time, our son was lonely and missing his siblings (who being eight years older had already left home). He was also sad after being bullied for several months at school.
\nOur son took great joy in training Jeffrey to do all sorts of tricks, as well as taking care of him and taking him for walks. Jeffrey was his loyal companion, waiting at the foot of the stairs by the front door all day when he left for school and squealing and leaping with delight when he returned home. This built our son’s confidence and helped him to make new friends.
\n\n\n\n\nHe loves nothing more than everyone coming home
\n
Our son has left home now, and since he can’t keep a dog in rental accommodation, Jeffrey is looked after by us parents. He follows me around, takes us for a walk every day and when our son returns, he’s beside himself with joy! He’s loyal to the whole family and loves nothing more than everyone coming home.
\nJeffrey keeps us active and his favourite place to go for a walk is the beach near where we live. He also loves walks in the forest, parks and the local area, and he enjoys saying hello to everyone! He used to play fetch with a ball, but since he’s lost most of his teeth, he can only do that with very soft toys now. He’s extremely friendly and has a great personality. He’s curious, inquisitive, adventurous and enjoys a good cuddle with a tummy and neck rub!
\nFamily life is complete with Jeffrey.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jennie Jane","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-jennie-jane","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/140b85763b41c7d27d3f4ce4a3b75706/f9913/jennie-jane-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/140b85763b41c7d27d3f4ce4a3b75706/f836f/jennie-jane-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/140b85763b41c7d27d3f4ce4a3b75706/2244e/jennie-jane-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/140b85763b41c7d27d3f4ce4a3b75706/f9913/jennie-jane-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jennie Jane is a rescue dog from Romania. She was found in a plastic bag in an orchard, along with her two brothers. They think she was about four weeks old when she was found.
\n\n\n\n\nShe enjoys life as much as any dog that can see
\n
On my first night with Jennie Jane, she lay next to me on my bed and put her paw around my arm. I knew then that she was a very special little dog, and I fell head over heels for her.
\nJennie Jane is completely blind and was most probably born with no eyes. She amazes me every day. She’s so smart and enjoys life as much as any dog that can see. I hope you can see how special she is, too.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jenna","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jenna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8ae70b7f78849f9e396e97d8385cc569/9a128/jenna-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8ae70b7f78849f9e396e97d8385cc569/f836f/jenna-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8ae70b7f78849f9e396e97d8385cc569/2244e/jenna-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8ae70b7f78849f9e396e97d8385cc569/9a128/jenna-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Jenna is three years old now, though we’ve had her since she was a puppy. She is a beautiful Springer Spaniel. Her best friend is a Labrador called Max, who she loves to chase around. Jenna has many funny habits and is a massive counter-surfer. Once, when she was extra hungry because of the steroids she had to take, she managed to steal a steak pie, an entire cake and a chicken breast from the table!
\n\n\nStay by her side
\n
Jenna has helped my daughter, Hannah, to cope with her poor mental health. She seems to know when Hannah is having a bad day and will stay by her side or drop a ball into Hannah’s lap, so she has to throw it and play. This really helps to bring her out of a low mood. We all love Jenna so much, and I don’t know what we’d do without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jerry","tags":["Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jerry","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/44cf038d32b6a6d9cf19accc90e89223/f9913/jerry-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/44cf038d32b6a6d9cf19accc90e89223/f836f/jerry-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/44cf038d32b6a6d9cf19accc90e89223/2244e/jerry-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/44cf038d32b6a6d9cf19accc90e89223/f9913/jerry-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Jerry, an emergency rescue dog who was a bad way after being cruelly treated. Since then, he has come on leaps and bounds.
\n\n\nHe’s been a real lifeline to me
\n
He’s very sociable and friendly with other dogs and people and has been a real lifeline to me, especially when my husband passed away from cancer. He gives me a reason to get up and brings me such joy. He is also a brilliant guard dog, as well as being so loving and caring. He loves backs rubs – and running 40 laps around the garden!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jessie","tags":["Adorable","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jessie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3345b6bf313c9e7fec8b337a9d62450e/f9913/jessie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3345b6bf313c9e7fec8b337a9d62450e/f836f/jessie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3345b6bf313c9e7fec8b337a9d62450e/2244e/jessie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3345b6bf313c9e7fec8b337a9d62450e/f9913/jessie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jessie is our first dog and she really has changed our lives for the better. She’s a three-year-old cockapoo and she has a real ability to make us smile no matter what. She always greets us with enthusiasm and pure joy, and her energetic wiggles and happy spins are always bound to make us beam!
\n\n\nShe makes us smile no matter what
\n
She loves adventure and exploring, and she has a real zest for life. She’s been such a positive influence, getting us out and about in the great outdoors. We love nothing more than a walk in the woods with Jessie. She has been described as ‘a cocker spaniel in cockapoo clothing’ so her nose is often on the ground, following the trail of something exciting.
\nBut above all, the best thing about Jessie is her cuddles. I’ve never known such a cuddly dog and she loves to be as close to you as possible – personal space isn’t a thing to Jessie! But we don’t mind because we know her time here won’t be forever, so we will happily embrace all the cuddles, wiggles, spins, happiness and love every day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jessie","tags":["Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jessie-lisa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6136c0282309e7ff815b227f9281fb8c/f9913/jessie-lisa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6136c0282309e7ff815b227f9281fb8c/f836f/jessie-lisa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6136c0282309e7ff815b227f9281fb8c/2244e/jessie-lisa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6136c0282309e7ff815b227f9281fb8c/f9913/jessie-lisa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I've always been a keen walker and, in 2019, I embarked on a challenge to ‘walk the year’ – 2,019 miles with my best walking pal, Jessie, a Bedlington Whippet cross. We were raising funds for our local Christie Hospital, where I had been an inpatient 10 years previously. I was discharged from their care that year and felt the need to give something back.
\nTogether, we soon raised, and exceeded, the target of £2,019, and we completed our challenge by August 2019. In truth, Jessie probably completed the challenge in March or April, such is her boundless energy.
\n\n\nShe has an innocent zest for life
\n
Jessie was with me every step of the way. Her good humour and enthusiasm was always there to keep me going. She has an innocent zest for life and she’s the most willing of walking companions, especially if there's cooked chicken in my rucksack.
\nWe spent glorious days exploring the West Pennine Moors and beyond and, without Jessie, I know I wouldn't have ventured out on some of those wet and wild Lancashire days!
\nHaving a walking companion who listens without interrupting, who goes where you want to go and who is happy to just be with you is priceless. And when I found myself lost on the moors, she was always there to give me a kiss and a cheery smile.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jester","tags":["Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jester","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c7cfdcc48b2aa324ac62ab45707f18b9/f9913/jester-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c7cfdcc48b2aa324ac62ab45707f18b9/f836f/jester-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c7cfdcc48b2aa324ac62ab45707f18b9/2244e/jester-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c7cfdcc48b2aa324ac62ab45707f18b9/f9913/jester-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jester is just three months old but has already made a big difference to my life. I was widowed suddenly last year and I am classed as clinically extremely vulnerable, so found the first lockdown very hard. My daughter and family did all they could but obviously cannot be here 24/7.
\n\n\nHe has already made a big difference to my life
\n
This lockdown is hard, but I have a purpose: woken at 6.30am, puppy training, regular meals, games and enforced rest whilst he sleeps – usually on me, given the chance!
\nHe may not be able to talk but he cocks his head and listens, probably thinking ‘is she going mad?!’ Help in the garden involves digging, pulling trailing plants, collecting and dispersing fallen apples.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jet","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-jet","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/66af3fafde4a8325288e9def1ae5ea48/f9913/jet-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/66af3fafde4a8325288e9def1ae5ea48/f836f/jet-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/66af3fafde4a8325288e9def1ae5ea48/2244e/jet-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/66af3fafde4a8325288e9def1ae5ea48/f9913/jet-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jet came to us with his brother Rebel via Whippet Rescue. We had recently lost our much-loved whippet, Banjo, at the age of three to an awful brain disease. We were heartbroken.
\nA few weeks after Banjo’s death, we received a phone call asking if we would consider adopting the two brothers. Their owner had become unwell and was no longer able to care for them. They were being passed around family members, none of whom wanted them. We thought long and hard for at least thirty seconds and said we would love them.
\n\n\n\n\nJet is the venerable senior of our little pack
\n
When we picked them up, every bone was visible. They were sunburnt, their ears were like old leather, and they were scared and bewildered. Over the next few weeks, we healed each other. They filled the enormous void left by our beloved Banjo, and we lavished them with good food and lots of TLC. They spent hours relaxing in the garden, and as they became more confident and settled, they helped out by digging and running all over the beds – but we didn’t mind.
\nWe started taking them out in the car and they became firm favourites at our local National Trust property. They also loved trips to the beach as there was so much space to run. Sadly, we lost Rebel to kidney failure in March this year. However, Jet was not left alone as we had adopted a Whippet Bedlington Terrier cross called Reg in 2022.
\nAt the end of May this year, we also had a message from a friend saying there was another Whippet in need, and she knew we had a ‘vacancy’, so Sam came to join us. Jet is the venerable senior of our little pack and keeps an eye on Reg and Sam.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jonesy","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-jonesy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a9c227e85135934e1f2bb768a79346c1/f9913/jonesy-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a9c227e85135934e1f2bb768a79346c1/f836f/jonesy-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/a9c227e85135934e1f2bb768a79346c1/2244e/jonesy-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/a9c227e85135934e1f2bb768a79346c1/f9913/jonesy-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Almost 12 months ago, Jonesy was diagnosed with a type of cancer called hemangiosarcoma, and we were told that he probably wouldn’t make it very long.
\nHowever, he's still with us and he’s still enjoying life to the full – walking, swimming, chasing balls and catching bubbles (his favourite game).
\n\n\n\n\nHis unfailing enthusiasm and energy in everything we ask of him is a delight
\n
He still competes in scent work trials (which he's very good at) and the masses of rosettes he's won is astonishing.
\nOf course, he doesn't know he has a terminal illness, nor does he know he's on borrowed time, but his unfailing enthusiasm and energy in everything we ask of him is a delight, proving that ignorance really is bliss.
\nWe do the worrying for him and have redoubled our efforts to work through his doggy 'bucket list'.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Jovie","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-jovie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cb0c7d3a0cb07b1455de972143dcfb65/f9913/jovie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cb0c7d3a0cb07b1455de972143dcfb65/f836f/jovie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cb0c7d3a0cb07b1455de972143dcfb65/2244e/jovie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cb0c7d3a0cb07b1455de972143dcfb65/f9913/jovie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Jovie is a rescue dog from Greece. We got her as a young pup at six months old and she’s been the greatest addition to our lives!
\nShe adores children and can’t get enough cuddles from anyone who visits. Even though she’s a rescue, she’s the most laid back and affectionate dog and is completely unfazed by anything life has thrown at her. Jovie can even sense if you’re sad and will make you stroke her by pawing at your hand until you move.
\n\n\n\n\nShe only gets grumpy is if I miss her snack
\n
Her favourite place to be is in my arms, being held like a baby. She also loves to nuzzle into your neck (but she snores like a train, so I tend to lie her down next to me).
\nAs the picture shows, she’s happiest when with me – her person. I work from home so she’s always with me. As long as I’m nearby, she’ll sleep with a smile on her face. In fact, the only time she gets grumpy is if I miss her 10:30 snack – no meeting is important enough that she should not have it, and our other dog Max helps her remind me, too!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Joey","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-joey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMC/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAbIoqyYjoAP/xAAZEAEAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARAiH/2gAIAQEAAQUC3Jo0vh1tMK//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAZEAABBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAhABARIDH/2gAIAQEABj8CKD5Ff//EABoQAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESGBMVH/2gAIAQEAAT8haRqMVD8Up9nRaKPgo2GFwrP/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEDcoQv/EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEgIf/aAAgBAwEBPxCBP//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACBB/9oACAECAQE/EKP/xAAcEAEAAgMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABABExQVFxgZH/2gAIAQEAAT8QaqTUprzyXxW4FM1uX4RRhRrJ9ymadsViW4/Yir7AIGCG7KT/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/423e5bdea6fd2f0d2a319c375da3c403/f9913/joey-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/423e5bdea6fd2f0d2a319c375da3c403/f836f/joey-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/423e5bdea6fd2f0d2a319c375da3c403/2244e/joey-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/423e5bdea6fd2f0d2a319c375da3c403/f9913/joey-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Joey found us, post lockdown #1. I placed an advert detailing the life we could offer a dog. Perhaps someone had over-dogged themselves during the pandemic and wanted to reconsider, but also wanted the best for their pooch. It turns out there was someone in that position and they contacted my ad and the stars aligned. Joey joined us in October 2020. He was six months old and a true working lab. He needed a job.
\n\n\nI have never known a dog love his tennis balls so much!
\n
As we got to know his character, Joey’s true calling emerged: to save tennis balls at all costs. I have never known a dog love his tennis balls so much! If he’s not retrieving his own, he’s searching for those little rubber critters others he’s lost. We have a tub full of balls we never set out with!
\nHe loves entertaining us as we seek out new routes to walk on the south coast. We’re very glad he found us. He’s a sensitive soul, brain always in overdrive (if not always engaged), loves his cuddles and is very handsome… but maybe I’m biased!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Julio","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-julio","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/736f730032570c65f88ddb815e853a80/f9913/julio-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/736f730032570c65f88ddb815e853a80/f836f/julio-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/736f730032570c65f88ddb815e853a80/2244e/julio-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/736f730032570c65f88ddb815e853a80/f9913/julio-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This past year and a half have been quite hard on me and my mum, as we have lost a lot of family members due to a number of reasons, even our beloved dog Ceaser. Things were very bad, and for the first time I felt depressed and tired of life. But then we brought our beloved puppy, Julio the German shepherd, into our lives, and slowly but surely things changed for the better.
\n\n\nHe has been a blessing to us
\n
He helped me make new friends on all of our walks. Ok – he does drag me along rather than walk with me, but even that helps as it’s a great workout and cheers us all up! He has a lot of energy in him, and even though that can tire me out at times, it keeps me on my toes and helps me stay motivated.
\nHe loves my 14-year-old son, and he loves him too and has learnt a sense of responsibility thanks to Julio. In short, he has been a blessing to us – although, our sofa definitely does not feel the same way, as he’s chewed it all up!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Joey","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-joey-julie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCBQP/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAed71UQ5i9KjJG6B/8QAGRAAAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECERMg/9oACAEBAAEFAhG0WqTczvNeP//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQERIh/9oACAECAQE/AZws/wD/xAAcEAABAwUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARIhAhARIDH/2gAIAQEABj8CtwpakZkVuv8A/8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIRBRYcH/2gAIAQEAAT8hpjy6k2xFFzGiXJbdz4PpmD//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEMfPff/EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEh/9oACAEDAQE/ELaNn//EABkRAAEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEhcf/aAAgBAgEBPxC0jIrf/8QAHBABAAIDAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBcYGx/9oACAEBAAE/EFawfEr0OjSRRXK4yuFRYH1HqSoNU4p5EOT0YG7XEuzOZzSk/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/29e9840bb14010a7291d02d032bb3562/f9913/joey-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/29e9840bb14010a7291d02d032bb3562/f836f/joey-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/29e9840bb14010a7291d02d032bb3562/2244e/joey-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/29e9840bb14010a7291d02d032bb3562/f9913/joey-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"A few months ago, Joey collapsed and lost the use of his back legs. The vet said it was a stroke and that it was time to say goodbye.
\n\n\n\n\nHis determination and zest for life is a lesson and a tonic
\n
Joey, however, had other plans. After a few days, he began to move his back legs again. Then, after a week, he was weight bearing, which is quite a task for a 36kg Greyhound. Now, he can freely run and play.
\nHis determination and zest for life is a lesson and a tonic for me every single day. He brings such happiness to our lives.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Juno","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-juno-phil","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3f4aead7b7cb7f4eacc0b0e34f17861b/f9913/juno-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3f4aead7b7cb7f4eacc0b0e34f17861b/f836f/juno-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3f4aead7b7cb7f4eacc0b0e34f17861b/2244e/juno-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3f4aead7b7cb7f4eacc0b0e34f17861b/f9913/juno-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This is Juno, my husband, Lee's, Hearing Assistance Dog. Lee became Deaf at a young age. He has had many difficulties throughout his life, struggling with things most of us take for granted. When Juno came along two years ago, she changed his world forever.
\n\n\nShe changed his world
\n
She was given to us by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and is trained to help in so many ways. Juno can alert Lee to the doorbell, alarm clock and the smoke alarm amongst other things. She's also a fantastic emotional support and such a loving dog. Of course, that’s not to say she doesn’t have a cheeky side – Juno has a particular fondness for stealing socks and underwear!
\nWhen she's not working, she enjoys cuddles and playtime with her favourite tennis ball. We love Juno and would be so lost without her in our lives.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kadiki","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kadiki","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3e08a08cd7bc2fa4c3deb29acf59f6de/f9913/kadiki-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3e08a08cd7bc2fa4c3deb29acf59f6de/f836f/kadiki-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3e08a08cd7bc2fa4c3deb29acf59f6de/2244e/kadiki-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3e08a08cd7bc2fa4c3deb29acf59f6de/f9913/kadiki-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My miniature Pinscher flew to London from Zimbabwe last month, but before then, I hadn’t seen her for a year. Her name, Kadiki, means small in the Shona language of Zimbabwe. She may be tiny, but with her huge personality and diva attitude, she never gets a hard time from any of the bigger dogs
\n\n\nI hadn’t seen her in a year
\n
Kadiki has overcome so much, and I’m so proud of the kind and loving soul she istoday. She is my whole world, and I’m so happy to have her back!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kai","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kai","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/001447f3374b78c8d75b898046f0d71a/f9913/kai-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/001447f3374b78c8d75b898046f0d71a/f836f/kai-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/001447f3374b78c8d75b898046f0d71a/2244e/kai-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/001447f3374b78c8d75b898046f0d71a/f9913/kai-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Kai is a Boxer dog. We collected him on Valentine’s Day 2018, when he was eight weeks old. Right from the start, we thought there was something wrong as he was always sick. We took him to vets and the first x-rays told us he had a large oesophagus. Then we went to hospital for a Visio camera, and they told us he has megaesophagus, which means he can’t eat normal dog food, biscuits or anything hard. He can’t even have water.
\nInitially, all his food had to be blended so it was very soft, and we fed him by hand from a height so it would go down to his stomach. After feeding, he had to be held upwards for at least 20 minutes. He was fed in our arms up to five times a day.
\nAs he got older, my husband made him his first Bailey chair, where I would feed Kai and then he would sit there for his ‘up time’. It was hard for the first couple of years but started to ease a bit in his third year. He’s now five years old, and last year he started having treats and drops of water throughout the day. He’s still fed three times a day in his chair, followed by his up time.
\nHe's small for his age and he’s often mistaken for a puppy – he’s maybe only 50% of a normal dog’s size, but he gives us 100% love. He loves to snuggle up to us. He’s also a typical Boxer in many ways and he has all the usual traits. He knows what he wants and how to get it. We wouldn’t change him for the world.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Keegan","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-keegan","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7907c0deb9cccc56066c0c1b56ba7fa4/9a128/keegan-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7907c0deb9cccc56066c0c1b56ba7fa4/f836f/keegan-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7907c0deb9cccc56066c0c1b56ba7fa4/2244e/keegan-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7907c0deb9cccc56066c0c1b56ba7fa4/9a128/keegan-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe’s maybe only 50% of a normal dog’s size, but he gives us 100% love
\n
Keegan is a ten-year-old West Highland White Terrier. In 2017, I had to take ill health retirement after 38 years of working for the NHS. I felt worthless and on the scrap heap.
\nLater that year, I spoke to volunteers for Therapy Dogs Nationwide at a dog show. I just knew Keegan was the perfect therapy dog. When I was not well, he wouldn't leave my side. He always knows when I need an extra cuddle, and he sleeps with his head on mine.
\n\n\nKeegan has such a big heart and I wanted to share his love
\n
Keegan has such a big heart and I wanted to share his love. I applied to get him assessed to be a therapy dog. Of course, he passed! Now, he goes into schools and helps reluctant readers and children with educational needs. Plus, he provides comfort to any child that may have gone through sad times or grief.
\nHe also visits the children’s hospital and brings love and joy to both staff and patients. In fact, last year we got awarded a volunteer’s people’s medal for going above and beyond by supporting staff and patients during the pandemic. A lot of this was done via emails and videos because I got shielded.
\nKeegan makes me immensely proud and, by sharing his love, it makes me feel I am a worthwhile citizen again. He is simply the best friend ever!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Juno","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-juno","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d536750f1fc274f6ac4f63089ad90203/f9913/juno-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d536750f1fc274f6ac4f63089ad90203/f836f/juno-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d536750f1fc274f6ac4f63089ad90203/2244e/juno-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d536750f1fc274f6ac4f63089ad90203/f9913/juno-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I recently had surgery and was diagnosed with cancer. My Leonberger, Juno, has been an absolute life saver. After being released from hospital, she instinctively understood that she couldn’t jump up on me or paw me in the stomach – she was so gentle and careful.
\n\n\nShe made me smile with her sweet, goofy face
\n
When I was at my lowest, she made me smile with her sweet, goofy face or had me laughing as she played tirelessly with her favourite squeaky ball. She really is an incredible girl, and everyone who meets her falls in love.
\nHer favourite activities are bog snorkelling and visiting the local farmer’s market, where the stallholders always spoil her with treats and attention. I’m truly blessed to have this special girl in my life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Keeva","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-keeva","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/02e68e79e418ff81f1cf8e21e1b79287/f9913/keeva-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/02e68e79e418ff81f1cf8e21e1b79287/f836f/keeva-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/02e68e79e418ff81f1cf8e21e1b79287/2244e/keeva-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/02e68e79e418ff81f1cf8e21e1b79287/f9913/keeva-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Keeva in November after a very tough few months in lockdown. Both my son and I suffer from heart problems, and Keeva really helped us to stay positive during the uncertainty of last year.
\n\n\nKeeva has really helped us to stay positive
\n
Dogs were already a part of our family, as we have two Chihuahuas as well as Keeva. We adore them but they’re getting old and can’t walk far anymore. That just makes training Keeva the puppy all the more exciting. Taking her out for fresh air has kept us going and brought us closer together, and we have so many funny stories we can’t wait to share with our wider family when we can see them again.
\nKeeva is an Irish name which means bold and beautiful. It reminds me of my other son and his young family. They live in Ireland, so I haven’t seen them in a while, but they’re always in my thoughts.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kes","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kes","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3d6c71ea2e8dc79e27ac7afd71539c47/f9913/kes-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3d6c71ea2e8dc79e27ac7afd71539c47/f836f/kes-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3d6c71ea2e8dc79e27ac7afd71539c47/2244e/kes-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3d6c71ea2e8dc79e27ac7afd71539c47/f9913/kes-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Kes is my little hearing dog-in-training. I got him just eight days after I sent off my last trainee as a fully qualified assistance dog, and boy did he arrive with a bang! He’s a gorgeous chocolate Cocker with big, innocent eyes, but don’t let that fool you – really, he’s a crazy bundle of energy who keeps me on my toes every day.
\n\n\nHe’s also a notorious sock thief
\n
From the minute he wakes me up to the moment he goes to bed he’s causing mischief. He’s also a notorious sock thief. Kes will take them off the airer, radiator or even out of the washing machine as I unload it! He also adores being in the water, whether that means swimming, river splashing, jumping in muddy puddles or even just dipping his nose in his water bowl.
\nKes is the friendliest dog alive. When you come downstairs or through the front door, he greets you like you’ve been gone forever. It’s adorable, the way he starts wiggling and wagging his tail with excitement. His love for life is contagious. I’ve never met a happier, crazier dog and I think the world of him. I just wish I could bottle up his energy and drink some!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kenny","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Family"],"slug":"meet-kenny","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/eca4cf4f0f77aed5564f787d5983883a/f9913/kenny-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/eca4cf4f0f77aed5564f787d5983883a/f836f/kenny-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/eca4cf4f0f77aed5564f787d5983883a/2244e/kenny-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/eca4cf4f0f77aed5564f787d5983883a/f9913/kenny-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Kenny is a joy. I got him as a puppy when I was 19 years old, and he has been a constant companion and support in my life ever since.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s brought me through so much
\n
When I was 27, I lost my mum very suddenly and Kenny became my reason for carrying on. He’s brought me through so much and has always been full of character.
\nHe was very unwell last year when I was heavily pregnant, and I was scared I was going to lose him, but thankfully, he pulled through and although he’s now very old, he’s still full of life! My baby might never remember him, but I’m so glad they’ve been able to meet one another.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Buster","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kirsty-buster","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/42dece08b2eefe863f91a581f65a05a7/f9913/buster2-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/42dece08b2eefe863f91a581f65a05a7/f836f/buster2-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/42dece08b2eefe863f91a581f65a05a7/2244e/buster2-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/42dece08b2eefe863f91a581f65a05a7/f9913/buster2-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Buster from a breeder when he was just nine months old. The breeder didn’t warn us of how nervous Buster gets around new dogs and new situations. Being the first time I have looked after a dog on my own this was quite overwhelming but I didn’t want to give up on Buster as he has such a kind heart and so much love to give. He just needed the right guidance in certain situations.
\nSince we adopted Buster we have worked so hard with him and a trainer to start to get him more confident in these situations. I expected to work hard and I expected there to be highs and lows – but what I never expected was how much I would learn from Buster.
\n\n\nHas taught me patience and perseverance
\n
Buster has taught me patience and perseverance in his training. He has taught me to accept flaws and love unconditionally. Most importantly, he has taught me to take everything one step at a time and to be happy and celebrate the small accomplishments.
\nBusters favourite thing to do is to play fetch and train with his toys. He is very toy-motivated and will do pretty much anything for a tennis ball! When he’s is at home, he spends his days sitting at the window watching the squirrels or on his back snoozing on the sofa. He absolutely loves human attention and is a sucker for a belly rub!
\nBuster really is a special dog. He was much more than I bargained for and requires lots of work, but I don’t think I could imagine a world without him anymore. We tackle problems together, and it’s so rewarding watching him overcome his fears.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kita","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kita","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fcd9831553bf93f286523227e676f001/f9913/kita-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fcd9831553bf93f286523227e676f001/f836f/kita-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fcd9831553bf93f286523227e676f001/2244e/kita-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fcd9831553bf93f286523227e676f001/f9913/kita-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Kita is truly the best dog out there. She’s the happiest and friendliest dog. She’s never yet met a dog, person, or any other animal that she doesn’t love.
\nI live in the UK alone as all my family live in a different country, so having her has brought me so much joy and given me a purpose every single day. Not only that, I get so much exercise and am the healthiest I’ve ever been, all thanks to this cheeky girl.
\n\n\nI will forever be thankful to her
\n
One of her fun quirks is that she doesn’t really run, she hops! When she’s excited or she’s found something fun like a stick or sock, she’ll grab it and hop around. And when she greets other dogs, she goes in paws first to hug their faces.
\nShe’s also incredibly dramatic. She loves to yell if she doesn’t get her way and she yells at other dogs when they aren’t giving her enough attention. Her new favourite thing is pill bugs. She doesn’t want to eat them, she just used her paws to play with them.
\nThe most special thing about her is that she saved me one time. Late one evening, we were walking alone in France due to travel delays, and some man was following us and trying to engage with me, despite my attempts to get him to leave. Although she was only eight months at the time, Kita took the hint and just barked her lungs out at him until he left us alone. He tried to return but she scared him off. I will forever be thankful to her for that evening. She really is the best.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Koa","tags":["Senior","Funny"],"slug":"meet-koa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a5123d4cdf01b5ec899feab99907b372/f9913/koa-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a5123d4cdf01b5ec899feab99907b372/f836f/koa-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/a5123d4cdf01b5ec899feab99907b372/2244e/koa-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/a5123d4cdf01b5ec899feab99907b372/f9913/koa-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Koa is my heart dog.
\nHe’s never unhappy – always wagging his tail and smiling. In fact, he makes even the saddest days bright.
\n\n\n\n\nHe makes even the saddest days bright
\n
He’s definitely a mummy’s boy and follows me everywhere I go, while also being independent, majestic and incredibly goofy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Koda","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-koda","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b12e1985c9b12fab6954a72dc5c8df24/f9913/koda-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b12e1985c9b12fab6954a72dc5c8df24/f836f/koda-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b12e1985c9b12fab6954a72dc5c8df24/2244e/koda-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b12e1985c9b12fab6954a72dc5c8df24/f9913/koda-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got my dog from a shelter in Macedonia. He was funny and quirky from the first day I met him, which is what drew me towards him. Koda is like a human – he sighs and gives the perfect side-eye stare when he’s annoyed.He also constantly wants to play and is obsessed with belly rubs. He’ll try and get one from every person he sees, even if they’re a total stranger.
\n\n\nHe’s a large dog but a complete baby
\n
Koda adores cats but sadly for him, the affection isn’t usually reciprocated. He’s a large dog but a complete baby, with a phobia of tiny pups! He’s so loving, funny and inquisitive, and I can’t imagine my life without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Koko","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-koko","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c418f6b0928d9aa77c8e6df33a89b4a3/f9913/koko-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c418f6b0928d9aa77c8e6df33a89b4a3/f836f/koko-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c418f6b0928d9aa77c8e6df33a89b4a3/2244e/koko-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c418f6b0928d9aa77c8e6df33a89b4a3/f9913/koko-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got my dog Koko when she was just six months old. She settled in straight away, and even though she had never been around children, she was absolutely amazing with my three right from the start.
\nKoko has a lovely temperament, she’s so calm and chilled that I really feel as though I have the perfect dog. When I first got her, I was able to spend pretty much all day keeping her company, since we were in lockdown at the time. After I went back to work, I was worried she wouldn’t adjust, but she took it all in her stride.
\n\n\nShe behaves just like a cat
\n
One of the funniest things about Koko is that she behaves just like a cat. She sleeps a lot and loves lazing around, so she’ll only go on a walk if you make her. I think she’d rather stay curled up on the comfy sofa all day long. When we do get out of the house, people always make a fuss of her because she’s so striking – you don’t see many Japanese Shiba Inus around here.
\nKoko also has a penchant for toffee popcorn, which is rather unusual for a dog. Her previous owners told us this and we were sceptical, but if you open a bag in another room she always comes running straight in!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kurtis","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kurtis","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5c480dd10c6fa4d6bb73cb7263d9dba5/f9913/kurtis-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c480dd10c6fa4d6bb73cb7263d9dba5/f836f/kurtis-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c480dd10c6fa4d6bb73cb7263d9dba5/2244e/kurtis-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c480dd10c6fa4d6bb73cb7263d9dba5/f9913/kurtis-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When I first found Kurtis, I was struggling through a very difficult time in my life. I was depressed and battling anxiety, which left me spiralling and unsure what to do.
\n\n\nLittle Terrier with the biggest heart
\n
My boyfriend and I had moved into our first home together, with a garden perfect for a small dog. Having grown up with dogs around me, it felt incomplete without one. After a lengthy search for the right breed and a rigorous adoption process, we drove the 11-hour round-trip to collect Kurtis from his former owners who no longer wanted him. We worked hard on his confidence, obedience and toilet training, and fell in love with his personality – a cheeky, lovely little Terrier with the biggest heart.
\nKurtis kept me company on my long commute and became an amazing office dog. When my anxiety attacks come along, he sits on my lap and licks my face, so that I have to calm down and cuddle him. He gives me a reason to get out and about and get fresh air so that I don’t wallow.
\nKurtis loves to cuddle on the sofa, but he also loves to dance. He will stand on his hind legs and tap dance for attention, and trot around with his oinky toy pig! He loves to sunbathe and will sit right on your head if it happens to be in a sunny spot. We take him on all of our adventures, and he checks out dog-friendly spots wherever we go!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kush","tags":["Puppy","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kush","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/183430f9377664bc3ca97c06b6e64369/9a128/kush-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/183430f9377664bc3ca97c06b6e64369/f836f/kush-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/183430f9377664bc3ca97c06b6e64369/2244e/kush-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/183430f9377664bc3ca97c06b6e64369/9a128/kush-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"The bizarre story behind us getting pup: one Sunday afternoon, my partner and I had a ‘heated debate’ which resulted in her going to stay at her mum’s for a couple of weeks. The next night, my son and I were talking about our old dogs, as it had been five years since we lost them, and something in my heart said, ‘is it about time we looked for a new dog?’ The look on my son’s face was answer enough and we googled ‘blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier pups for sale’.
\n\n\nWe couldn’t imagine being without him!
\n
The top search result was an advert for six white pups and just one blue. Here's where fate kicked in: the pups were in a Shropshire town, a couple of hours from us and not somewhere we would normally go, BUT I already had a work meeting booked in that very town later in the week!
\nI contacted the breeder and arranged to visit on the day of the meeting. I took my son and, as they say, Kush chose us by sitting on my son’s knee the whole time we were there. We brought him home and that just left the tiny issue of telling my partner I bought a dog!
\nRather than ruin a good surprise, I said nothing and waited for her to come back from her mum’s. As she came through the door, I left pup on the floor right in front of her. Needless to say, she immediately fell in love with Kush and all was good. He's now a year old and we couldn't imagine being without him!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kylo","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-kylo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFA//EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB7Zl0E7XcwxwhtETP/8QAHBABAQABBQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgEhAAMREzJD/9oACAEBAAEFAm0R3uUu0q4vFkzrfwfmfP8A/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEREP/aAAgBAwEBPwGEQs//xAAZEQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQEjH/2gAIAQIBAT8BUjYuV//EABwQAAMAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABERJxECExQf/aAAgBAQAGPwJulyYnGO+GdXXwvD2LR//EABwQAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExYUFRcf/aAAgBAQABPyG1Jbgt16YnAw4MGDDBg9NFCBY3uVQDkxByvnCQ9J//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEJ/Iwf/EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQMSH/2gAIAQMBAT8Q3EUV/8QAGBEAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABExAXH/2gAIAQIBAT8QfRiXTaf/xAAcEAEAAwEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhQTFxgbH/2gAIAQEAAT8QskQy4rJo6WD9THIqPIPRGg9g5g6GNHonfnsYxVspmRKh7Nws4ag6CmUEFH4T/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9db615836376ec13bbccf948630b4a0c/f9913/kylo-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9db615836376ec13bbccf948630b4a0c/f836f/kylo-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9db615836376ec13bbccf948630b4a0c/2244e/kylo-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9db615836376ec13bbccf948630b4a0c/f9913/kylo-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have Muscular Dystrophy and am in a wheelchair, so I wasn’t sure how a puppy would fit into our lives initially, but I knew I wanted the love and companionship only a furry friend could provide.
\nKylo is now one year old and has already exceeded all of my expectations. He is such a loving dog and is never happier than when he’s sitting with us and getting lots of attention. He is very sensitive to my disability and will sit by my legs as though protecting me from the world (something he doesn’t do to anyone else). He also sits and waits patiently whenever I go past in my wheelchair, and even seems to sense when my feet and legs are painful.
\n\n\nHe has brought such love, joy and affection
\n
He has recently learnt to bring me my socks when I ask him to, after many months of grabbing them and taking off! We all utterly adore him, and he has brought such joy, love and affection into our family life.
\nWhenever you enter room, he will always greet you with a very enthusiastic tail wag – we call it the helicopter. He’s so smart and learnt all his commands and tricks in no time. Although, despite his intelligence, he is still absolutely terrified of the microwave!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Kyra","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-kyra","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ece52fc34a0049732f4342c937428f71/f9913/kyra-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ece52fc34a0049732f4342c937428f71/f836f/kyra-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ece52fc34a0049732f4342c937428f71/2244e/kyra-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ece52fc34a0049732f4342c937428f71/f9913/kyra-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Kyra is an amazing Bernese Mountain dog who’s reached the amazing age of 12 years and six months. She’s a very fit, healthy and loving girl, and she’s very protective of me and my grandchildren.
\nWhen one of the grandchildren fell at the age of three, Kyra ran over to protect her and pick her up. Or whenever the grandchildren had a sleepover, she would go to their bedroom, listen to their bedtime story, and then go to sleep between their beds.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s very protective of me and my grandchildren
\n
Once after I had a hip operation, I decided to go for a little walk with her, and a man came creeping out of the woods. She stood between me and him to protect me.
\nWhen I leave my jacket around, she’ll empty the pockets of dog treats. And every morning she comes over to my bed to give me a good morning kiss and bring me my clothes.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lacie","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lacie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0db454d0935826af1e0d7b756ac5b2e8/f9913/lacie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0db454d0935826af1e0d7b756ac5b2e8/f836f/lacie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0db454d0935826af1e0d7b756ac5b2e8/2244e/lacie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0db454d0935826af1e0d7b756ac5b2e8/f9913/lacie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lacie is our beautiful Blenheim Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. She’s such a gentlesoul who brings my family and I so much joy. She was born with hip dysplasia and has undergone several knee operations to correct this. It can’t have been easy but she soldiers on, with her beautiful smile and waggy tail.
\n\n\nShe’s my sunshine dog
\n
As I suffer from an ankle disability, it feels like Lacie and I were meant to be. We both take life in our stride and at our own pace. She’s my sunshine dog, and everyone who meets her instantly falls in love. Lacie is truly one of a kind.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lavender","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lavender","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMBAgQF/8QAFwEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDBP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABrvDHM9Sqr8ioZcQt/8QAGhAAAwADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECESExMv/aAAgBAQABBQJE3KHLMk+8ofODe//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhAR/9oACAEDAQE/AYmK/wD/xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAR/9oACAECAQE/AUYOf//EABsQAAEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBExEiFh/9oACAEBAAY/AiISTSNZbZcb/8QAGxABAAIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAxESFBUXH/2gAIAQEAAT8hiiHQm4luPszm5FO/IhRJkW5MrBZlHI//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEKTvA//EABcRAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAETH/2gAIAQMBAT8QQOM0dm//xAAZEQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARMXH/2gAIAQIBAT8Qs2cGlH//xAAeEAACAgIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMUFhcZFRgf/aAAgBAQABPxBCCw1ipdijcjguI9oskbQIQZY1qOLE9n5DiHbBDv2EEQWJv6xHRvcD37DcDd3P/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/556948ea96b8da65eef0557c292d84ae/f9913/lavender-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/556948ea96b8da65eef0557c292d84ae/f836f/lavender-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/556948ea96b8da65eef0557c292d84ae/2244e/lavender-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/556948ea96b8da65eef0557c292d84ae/f9913/lavender-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I am a therapist working in a secondary school. Lavender has been working alongside me for a year, providing emotional support (in the form of cuddles, companionship and licks) to the teenagers that I see. It has been amazing seeing how transformative her presence is. Therapy can be very intense and daunting, and having Lavender in the room can be a real comfort for those who are finding it difficult for any number of reasons.
\n\n\nShe is incredibly intelligent
\n
At home, we enjoy lots of lovely walks and playtime together, where she can relax and have fun. She is incredibly intelligent, and we love to learn new tricks. Lavender is very food motivated (typical Lab!) and loves to sit by me when I’m preparing dinner in the hopes that some carrot or courgette will find their way to her.
\nShe is precious to me, and I couldn’t imagine life without her. She has had such a wonderful impact on so many people just by being her silly, loving and affectionate self.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lazlo","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lazlo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4920262fc85e2bd332520bfe35bff5a5/f9913/lazlo-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4920262fc85e2bd332520bfe35bff5a5/f836f/lazlo-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4920262fc85e2bd332520bfe35bff5a5/2244e/lazlo-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4920262fc85e2bd332520bfe35bff5a5/f9913/lazlo-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When Lazlo came into our life, we had not long adopted our children. He helped them to understand that we were their forever family.
\nA while later, when I temporarily lost sight in one eye, Lazlo was my loyal companion. He guided me until I was better, always looking out for me to make sure I was ok. He’s such a calming influence and adapts so well to any situation.
\n\n\nLazlo was my loyal companion
\n
He fits in perfectly with our family and looks after his furry companions as much as his human ones. He has two sister cats, Flossie and Raven, two house rabbits called Harley and Quinn, and this year, he even got a new sister puppy, Lyra.
\nLazlo is so protective of us all that he can sometimes get quite ‘barky’ when anyone new approaches us. He may be a dog, but he’s got the heart of a lion!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nova","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-leanne-nova","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/347f5d35082df298950caf5f1459844f/f9913/novaLeanne-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/347f5d35082df298950caf5f1459844f/f836f/novaLeanne-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/347f5d35082df298950caf5f1459844f/2244e/novaLeanne-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/347f5d35082df298950caf5f1459844f/f9913/novaLeanne-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My life has been filled with laughter, love and slobbery kisses since we got Nova just over a year ago. She is the most affectionate dog I’ve ever met and always looks so happy.
\n\n\nAlways looks so happy
\n
She loves car rides, where she sits with her head and tongue sticking out of the window. She also enjoys doing zoomies in the park and diving headfirst onto the sofa. She is especially talented at giving the best hugs.
\nSharing a bed with her can be quite a challenge, as she kicks out her hind legs to get comfy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Going on walks and chatting to her every day is my saving grace and a happiness that can’t be replaced.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lena","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lena","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1149695782caad9aa21596693568cfea/f9913/lena-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1149695782caad9aa21596693568cfea/f836f/lena-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1149695782caad9aa21596693568cfea/2244e/lena-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1149695782caad9aa21596693568cfea/f9913/lena-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rescued from Romania, where she was attacked as a tiny pup, Lena just lights up my life every minute. Left with facial deformities, she is my little snorting hyena.
\n\n\nShe is my little snorting hyena
\n
Seeing how far she has come in the (almost) two years since I adopted her gives me such a sense of happiness. She has given me a purpose and something to care for when, at times, I can feel like I am not worth much.
\nFilled with so much sassiness and energy, she is (in my eyes) the best, purest gremlin ever.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lenny","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lenny","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/21ffe1bdbafbedfd91da5fd19ac8b298/f9913/lenny-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/21ffe1bdbafbedfd91da5fd19ac8b298/f836f/lenny-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/21ffe1bdbafbedfd91da5fd19ac8b298/2244e/lenny-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/21ffe1bdbafbedfd91da5fd19ac8b298/f9913/lenny-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Lenny from an animal sanctuary when he was 16-weeks-old. He had been born there and was adopted at 10 weeks, but the family eventually brought him back.
\nI have always been frightened of dogs, but my husband and children absolutely love animals. We initially went to the sanctuary to adopt a cat, to see how I would get on with my first pet. But instead, we came home with Lenny.
\n\n\nLoves being a part of the family
\n
Lenny is a 32kg Lurcher cross, who thinks he is the size of a Jack Russell! Our nickname for him is ‘little Lenny longlegs’. He spends most of his time cuddling and dozing on the sofa – he loves being a part of the family. He has no concept of personal space, and often just jumps up onto your lap. He also enjoys playing with the kids in the garden and going for long walks in the forest, where he spends his time looking for squirrels.
\nNot long after he joined our family, we found out my husband’s friend had rehomed Lenny’s mum a few months before. This means Lenny is able to visit her on a regular basis.
\nHe’s so loved and has brought a lot of joy into our family life. He’s soft and affectionate with all of us, and it’s safe to say I’m now a converted fan of dogs! You’ll often find me sat on the sofa, enjoying a long cuddle with Lenny.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Leo","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-leo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d540d2a63edacb000d9abc3c0c370d80/f9913/leo-adele-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d540d2a63edacb000d9abc3c0c370d80/f836f/leo-adele-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d540d2a63edacb000d9abc3c0c370d80/2244e/leo-adele-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d540d2a63edacb000d9abc3c0c370d80/f9913/leo-adele-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This is my grand-dog, Leo. My son and his partner own him, but we look after him frequently while they are at work. As soon as they got him, I instantly bonded with him. He’s a Shiba Inu, a very funny, quirky breed. This is very apt, as my eldest son lives and works in Japan.
\nWhen Leo sees you, it’s like you’re the only person in his life – his whole body wags and he smiles. He doesn’t bark, just woofs and makes a strange whining noise. He doesn’t like water at all, so he has to be carried over puddles and he always walks around large areas of water. He also loves to be brushed as he has lots of thick fur. Once you start, he just lays upside down, literally smiling.
\nI recently had my hip replaced. On the evening I came home, my son brought him round. He jumped on the bed and just lay at my side, looking up and smiling. He knew he couldn’t jump on me. I call him my therapy dog. He has helped no end in my recovery. I walk him with my husband on my sticks, and if I stop, he stops.
\nHe's very stubborn, and if he doesn’t want to walk, he often has to be carried home. He’s definitely a magnet for affection. Everyone thinks we are walking a fox. He loves everyone and just wants to play with every dog he meets. Shibas are renowned for their lack of recall, but we’ve had no problems with Leo at all. He loves his ball, which has helped with that.
\nLeo is not a morning dog. He loves to sleep and comes to life later in the day. My son also has two cats who came first, so Leo had to adapt and often slept in their basket with them. He thinks they are dogs and tries to mouth them. One can tolerate it, but the other doesn’t. He knows his place! They often sleep side by side and it’s lovely to see.
\nI’ve never had dogs before, but I totally understand why people have them. He has brought so much happiness to our family. Such a lovely cuddly teddy bear.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Leri","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-leri","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c8557b53d6d501f631b3768ff6d3079b/f9913/leri-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c8557b53d6d501f631b3768ff6d3079b/f836f/leri-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c8557b53d6d501f631b3768ff6d3079b/2244e/leri-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c8557b53d6d501f631b3768ff6d3079b/f9913/leri-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe has brought so much happiness to our family
\n
Lerihas recently retired from his role as a Protection Dog for the British Army. I first met him when he was two years old, after he had been postedto my unit fresh out of training. He was my first Military Working Dog and together, we guided each other through.
\n\n\nWe guided each other through
\n
We absolutely smashed our last licensing, and were awarded an advancedpass, something that has not been achieved in more than ten years at my unit. I have learnt so much from Leri and I’m honoured to have been able to take him home at the end of his service. I owe him all that life can give and I love him so much.He’s my big, slobbery, brave boy!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lexi","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lexi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d1c230f27b1b6a633df9c66411e18ad7/f9913/lexi-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d1c230f27b1b6a633df9c66411e18ad7/f836f/lexi-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d1c230f27b1b6a633df9c66411e18ad7/2244e/lexi-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d1c230f27b1b6a633df9c66411e18ad7/f9913/lexi-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have type 2 diabetes and Lexi has never been trained to know when I'm about to experience either hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia due to my diabetes, but over the first year we had her, my wife noticed she would come and lay down beside me when I was about to have one or the other.
\n\n\nShe is my little life saver
\n
So now, when Lexi comes over and lays down next to me, I know I'm about to have either a hypo or hyper, and my wife can test my blood sugar levels. She is my little life saver.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lexi","tags":["Adult","Small","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lexi-frank","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5a9e48dcf3d5d690bdf33516d5dc3060/f9913/lexi-frank-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5a9e48dcf3d5d690bdf33516d5dc3060/f836f/lexi-frank-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5a9e48dcf3d5d690bdf33516d5dc3060/2244e/lexi-frank-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5a9e48dcf3d5d690bdf33516d5dc3060/f9913/lexi-frank-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I’ve been a dog lover since I was a kid. I grew up with at least one Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound or Miniature Schnauzer always around. But my wife was not a dog-lover, nor had she grown up with any pets. I had resigned myself to the fact that I would not be having any dogs in my married life.
\nFive years ago, I had a stroke. It came out of the blue and suddenly my life was turned upside down. Two months afterwards, my wife had one of these ‘lightbulb moments’ and thought getting a dog would be good for my recovery. In life, when there is a window of opportunity, you have to grab it with both hands, so I certainly didn't argue! A few weeks later, we brought home the most gorgeous Jack Russell puppy, who we decided to name Lexi.
\n\n\n\n\nShe helps alleviate my stress and anxiety on those dark days
\n
Lexi has been a hugely positive influence in my life. She’s a loyal companion who’s always there for me. When my wife is working and our children are at school, Lexi is the one who gets me through the days. Every day comes with its own challenges for me. My life is governed by my stroke fatigue, but Lexi gets me out of bed and walking.
\nOften, if we haven't been out, Lexi will still try to get me to move my legs by dropping a tennis ball at my feet, encouraging me to kick the ball so she can fetch it. She helps alleviate my stress and anxiety on those dark days and gives me confidence that things can get better. She also knows when I freeze up, so if I stay in the same position without moving my face or body, she starts barking at me.
\nShe’s loved by everyone in the house, including my wife. When we got Lexi, my wife was adamant that she would strictly be a downstairs dog. Today, not only is Lexi allowed in the bedroom, but she spends most nights sleeping on our bed! And our children can’t stop kissing and tickling her.
\nMy stroke has been challenging for everyone in our house, but Lexi has been the silver lining that comes with every cloud! She has brought immense joy to us all and is a reminder that light can come out of darkness.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lexi","tags":["Adult","Funny","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-lexi-katie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMFAQT/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABrHniLSWDlSE0gP8A/8QAHBABAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgEDAAQSEyEj/9oACAEBAAEFAk4FOvak2lyvZ69efpm0YNlEZMe//8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEf/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAR/9oACAECAQE/ASP/xAAaEAEAAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhEEFC/9oACAEBAAY/Al+prZMGIVb3PSDz/8QAGhABAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIUExYf/aAAgBAQABPyFU1TyNDEvZe4zIRxhlcjBvpFDssf0QL6LUP1P/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEIgPvP/EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEf/aAAgBAwEBPxAr/8QAGREAAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERECFB/9oACAECAQE/EIpoY5j/xAAcEAEBAAMBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAxQSGBkcH/2gAIAQEAAT8Qsu8EVKu8SA7fgBvH8xh2kIEZ3Ip6VsdcC4kENGsUkHzhA4ofTecCUpqTG+F87n//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6cb99b3d28adf984b45e8fd95f5ba401/f9913/lexi-katie-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6cb99b3d28adf984b45e8fd95f5ba401/f836f/lexi-katie-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/6cb99b3d28adf984b45e8fd95f5ba401/2244e/lexi-katie-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/6cb99b3d28adf984b45e8fd95f5ba401/f9913/lexi-katie-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lexi is truly my soul dog. I’ve been wanting a dog for more than 10 years, and when I finally got Lexi a year ago, my whole life changed.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s the most perfect good girl around!
\n
She’s smart, funny, absolutely adorable, and just the most perfect good girl around! She’s well known on Instagram for her cute head tilts. Since she was a small puppy, she has always listened very intently and tilted her head with every word.
\nCheck her out on Instagram @livinlavitalexi.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lilly","tags":["Puppy","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lilly","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/237047d873520df030d930c3ef8f1c51/f9913/lilly-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/237047d873520df030d930c3ef8f1c51/f836f/lilly-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/237047d873520df030d930c3ef8f1c51/2244e/lilly-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/237047d873520df030d930c3ef8f1c51/f9913/lilly-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ever since I got Lilly, my Spanish Water Dog puppy, she’s brought me lots of love, happiness and fun. In January this year, my beloved dog Zuky crossed the rainbow bridge at the old age of 15, but Lilly has been a wonderful companion. She checks up on me to make sure I’m OK, and she’s helping me cope with the huge loss in my heart.
\nWhen I went to see Lilly as a puppy, I entered the room and she came over, licked my face and snuggled up. They do say a puppy chooses their owner! Before I got her, my health was declining rapidly. Now I feel like a different person. Not only has she been excellent for my physical health, but she’s helped my confidence with meeting people – something I find difficult due to a neurological condition I have.
\n\n\n\n\nLilly’s more than just a dog
\n
Every day we go for a walk, come rain or shine. We have lots of fun walking in the countryside, and then in the evening, we relax watching our favourite nature documentaries with David Attenborough. She gets the zoomies every evening. And she has loads of different toys, but her favourite is my outdoor Crocs!
\nLilly’s more than just a dog, she’s my world. She loves her life and has everything a young dog needs to remain happy and healthy. I couldn’t imagine life without her. She’s also doing really well with her training as I have lots of dog knowledge, so she’s a very good puppy. She’ll soon be at her teenage stage, which could be a challenge, but I’m ready for whatever comes our way.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lilly","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-lilly-joy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6419e9ad835456c0f3ebb89682f8a747/f9913/lilly-joy-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6419e9ad835456c0f3ebb89682f8a747/f836f/lilly-joy-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/6419e9ad835456c0f3ebb89682f8a747/2244e/lilly-joy-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/6419e9ad835456c0f3ebb89682f8a747/f9913/lilly-joy-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I re-homed Lilly three months ago from a breeder, and to me, she’s simply the best.
\nI was feeling quite lonely as I now live by myself, but she brings me so much joy every day.
\n\n\n\n\nShe brings me so much joy
\n
She always wants lots of tickles and strokes, and she walks really well when we go out with my mobility scooter. We have plenty of funny moments together and it makes me laugh so much when she barks to have the fan on her.
\nLilly is also perfectly calm – until she sees any delivery men!
\nBecause of her, I’m no longer lonely.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lily","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-lily-jacquie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/313e39d90bce375a96479b51b9794e55/f9913/lily-jacquie-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/313e39d90bce375a96479b51b9794e55/f836f/lily-jacquie-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/313e39d90bce375a96479b51b9794e55/2244e/lily-jacquie-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/313e39d90bce375a96479b51b9794e55/f9913/lily-jacquie-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lily is my everyday hero, and she has been ever since my husband John and I got her as a rescue 10 years ago from Border Terrier Welfare.
\nShe’s slowed down a bit now, but still loves life – walking regularly each morning, scrounging as many treats as she can and chasing away cats from the garden.
\n\n\n\n\nShe loves visitors and welcomes them with licks
\n
When we got her, only three weeks had passed since we lost our old Border Terrier. We were so distraught, but her unconditional love soon melted our hearts.
\nAt first, Lily was a bit of a mischief. She used to love destroying toys! We even had to get an outside letterbox, because she’d grab any letters through the post-box, run off with them and then destroy them if given half the chance.
\nShe loves visitors and welcomes them with licks as kisses. She’s made lots of friends over the years and has won photo competitions, too. I could go on forever!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lily","tags":["Adorable","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lily","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/42ba97ba0eda4b34c3a3dc0e264ba5b9/f9913/lily-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/42ba97ba0eda4b34c3a3dc0e264ba5b9/f836f/lily-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/42ba97ba0eda4b34c3a3dc0e264ba5b9/2244e/lily-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/42ba97ba0eda4b34c3a3dc0e264ba5b9/f9913/lily-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lily is a fun-loving English Springer Spaniel. She is obsessed with tennis balls and loves to swim!
\nHer boundless energy and love for the outdoors is helping my four teenagers to get through lockdown. She gives them something to do each day and gets them out of the house and into the fresh air.
\n\n\nShe keeps our whole household smiling
\n
One of her favourite pastimes is chasing my 19-year-old son as he skateboards around the park. Lily is truly bonkers and a best friend to all of my children. She keeps our whole household smiling through even the darkest days.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lily","tags":["Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lily-jane","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAwUE/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQD/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAdvLlUu85wYkG4r/xAAcEAACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADBBEQEhP/2gAIAQEAAQUCZz50ZGotikM1lgXHip0Am+P/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEj/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQAQ/9oACAECAQE/AWd//8QAGxAAAwACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERAiESEyD/2gAIAQEABj8Cy3B9mbLSJccTbJX4/8QAGxABAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIUEQMVH/2gAIAQEAAT8hKl1XfkwiTW4FFhiIqQYHS4mDUtn/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEJsvPP/EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBFR/9oACAEDAQE/EFgqf//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACBh/9oACAECAQE/ELD/xAAcEAEAAwACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRYfD/2gAIAQEAAT8QohTQwLNdbvXexuYLEmTYG+U+8TKIvrJnsu+LgOYoAG99kGvZ/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d45b1ff39bccfce813cf0611ca8c7671/f9913/lily-jane-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d45b1ff39bccfce813cf0611ca8c7671/f836f/lily-jane-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d45b1ff39bccfce813cf0611ca8c7671/2244e/lily-jane-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d45b1ff39bccfce813cf0611ca8c7671/f9913/lily-jane-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lily was adopted from Labrador Rescue North West in October 2009 at approximately two years old. The first few months were really challenging as she had chronic separation anxiety. After I helped her settle, she began to mend my broken heart following the death of my previous 14-year-old Labrador six weeks earlier.
\nI am a vicar and live on my own. Lily is always ready to cuddle and listen when I have faced a challenging pastoral encounter. She’s a really good timekeeper and when I’m busy with work, she will come and put her head on my knee when it’s time for walkies, as if to say ‘Take me out, I'm way more interesting than your computer’.
\nLily’s also good when I have work meetings as she welcomes people, makes them feel at ease and offers cuddles when they’re upset. Pastoral walks can sometimes make it easier for people to talk about difficult things and Lily always comes along on those.
\n\n\nDuring the pandemic, Lily was what kept me going
\n
During the pandemic, I struggled with anxiety. I felt the weight of my responsibility for those in my care, and I had no physical human contact for months as I live alone. Lily was what kept me going. She was my reason to go out daily, and those walks in nature when we couldn't go anywhere else were so important for my mental health.
\nLily is a typical Labrador and will eat anything, which is not necessarily a good thing as she has a wheat allergy. She seemingly goes deaf on a walk if she's found something disgusting that she is enjoying eating or rolling in! She also loves water, the muddier the better.
\nLily is now 12 and beginning to struggle with arthritis, but she will still play like a baby when she meets up with another of her canine friends. Just this week she had me laughing as she frolicked through a field of buttercups trying to instigate play with a three-year-old spaniel, who was too busy following her nose to join in.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lily","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lily-sally","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f46f76907592f190148a5395bd167a39/f9913/lily-sally-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f46f76907592f190148a5395bd167a39/f836f/lily-sally-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f46f76907592f190148a5395bd167a39/2244e/lily-sally-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f46f76907592f190148a5395bd167a39/f9913/lily-sally-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lily is the most loyal, faithful Labrador. We’ve had her since she was a pup, along with our Labradoodle Ozzy, who we lost to cancer in April 2020. Lily adored Ozzy and we were afraid she would pine. But thankfully her personality has shone through. She’s very greedy and has emptied bins and hoovered up the flour that we put out to discourage ants.
\n\n\n\n\nI can’t bear to think what life would be like without her
\n
She’s struggled with walking long distances lately, so we bought her a large dog buggy for longer trips. She wasn’t keen at first, but now she loves it and prefers riding to walking. She sits just like a princess, enjoying the journeys. She’s never slept on the sofa before, but ever since we’ve had our son and his dog staying with us, she enjoys jumping on the sofa each night after we've gone to bed.
\nShe was also named after the Queen (Lilibet), as she was due to be born on the Queen's birthday. I can’t bear to think what life would be like without our truly adorable Lily, who everyone loves. And she loves them too, especially if they have a treat in their pocket.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lily","tags":["Senior","Family","Funny"],"slug":"meet-lily-tamsin","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c0f4d233b81021768631e7ed42432f2d/f9913/lily-tamsin-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c0f4d233b81021768631e7ed42432f2d/f836f/lily-tamsin-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/c0f4d233b81021768631e7ed42432f2d/2244e/lily-tamsin-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/c0f4d233b81021768631e7ed42432f2d/f9913/lily-tamsin-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lily is 12 years old, yet she still steals any food she can get her paws on! She’s a bit lumpy and bumpy, and distinctly grey around the edges.
\nWhen Lily wakes up, her face often takes a while to return to normal after being squished by the side of her favourite chair, but most of all, she’s my 85-year-old mum’s best friend.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s my 85-year-old mum’s best friend
\n
They’re both a little unsteady on their feet (and they’re on more medicines than you can imagine), but they love cuddles and cups of tea.
\nThis picture is from one of her previous visits to the vet after breaking into a bag of dog food (she had no regrets!).
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lizzy","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lizzy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMCBP/EABcBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAQP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAZz6Icp62EpDWxL/xAAbEAACAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADERASQf/aAAgBAQABBQK5yqU2luDhNa9ZsWeif//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEgIf/aAAgBAgEBPwGBP//EABoQAQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBEhMUH/2gAIAQEABj8C1MNEQPe0Rr//xAAbEAACAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhQTFhkf/aAAgBAQABPyFyUOm4LqJFs7E8EFb3xAJiGlwIN9hUUSKNhVk//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABAfzwL/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIP/aAAgBAwEBPxAj/8QAFxEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAQIf/aAAgBAgEBPxAcEtn/xAAeEAEAAwACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRoWFxkf/aAAgBAQABPxAATIWyPwQpuFrR9S+j3zrIK0U2VxC7CA6F+fyZ3taIAUbrI2VXKuhjvDGcE//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cdfd264af7cbb429d74c229f0e48ff6e/f9913/lizzy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cdfd264af7cbb429d74c229f0e48ff6e/f836f/lizzy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cdfd264af7cbb429d74c229f0e48ff6e/2244e/lizzy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cdfd264af7cbb429d74c229f0e48ff6e/f9913/lizzy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lizzy is all the things you don't want. She's stubborn, always thinks she knows best and incredibly grumpy if her dinner is late.
\nDespite all that, she's been my rock since we rescued her at three years old. She's seen me through clinical depression and anxiety, and still is there for me when I need her. With the isolation the current climate has brought, taking her for walks and spending lots of time cuddling has been my therapy.
\n\n\nShe’s been my rock
\n
Lizzy never fails to make me laugh, and she remains bouncy and energetic, lighting up whenever she gets a sniff of agility equipment. I'm honestly not sure how she keeps going, behaving like a dog half her age, the only real sign being that after her mad romps she does need to sleep for a while. But, as soon as that's done, she's ready to go again!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Logan","tags":["Adult","Small","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-logan","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5c5924e776a640bfaf6c55119f3c8f6a/f9913/logan-monica-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c5924e776a640bfaf6c55119f3c8f6a/f836f/logan-monica-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c5924e776a640bfaf6c55119f3c8f6a/2244e/logan-monica-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c5924e776a640bfaf6c55119f3c8f6a/f9913/logan-monica-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Logan is a quirky, loving dog who came to us as a tiny puppy. His story was quite sad – he was underweight with a heart murmur, deformed ribs and no breast bone. But as in the best fairy tales, we eventually got our happy ending.
\nLogan is from Many Tears Animal Rescue in west Wales. He was a sickly pup destined for euthanasia, but a vet managed to get help and he was surrendered to the rescue centre. They started looking for a home where he could live out his expected short life. That’s when I saw him on their website, and he tugged at my heartstrings.
\n\n\n\n\nHe was a different puppy after his first six weeks with us
\n
We had lost one of our dogs a few months earlier, and Lulu, our Cavalier, was feeling lonely. We went to see Logan, and it was love at first sight. He was such a quiet pup at first, but he went from strength to strength. With plenty of Lulu love, good food and the right care, he was a different puppy after his first six weeks with us. He was happy, active, playful, and loved by everyone, especially our granddaughters.
\nAt six months old, he showed little signs of ever being ill. His chest had hardened up and he managed with stunted ribs. His heart murmur was also gone! He started running like the wind, and playing fetch like a pro. When he turned one, we returned to the rescue centre for an open day. They were delighted with his progress, and he even won a prize! Now, he’s still in love with Lulu, who’s almost 12, and the rest of the family. We’re loving our happy ever after.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Loki","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-loki","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/feac548471188bb66a5348d5581ab6b5/f9913/loki-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/feac548471188bb66a5348d5581ab6b5/f836f/loki-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/feac548471188bb66a5348d5581ab6b5/2244e/loki-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/feac548471188bb66a5348d5581ab6b5/f9913/loki-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Loki has heart. His love is overflowing, and he piles heaps of it onto anyone who gives him attention. Every day is open to the possibilities of new games.
\nI was not a runner, nor would I have ever considered myself the sort of person to become one – running is crazy. I love a good hike, I enjoy roaming miles and exploring new places, but why run? You’ll just miss the details as you zoom by, I thought. And then came Loki.
\n\n\nLoki laughs when you run with him. He has a big open-mouthed smile
\n
I realised, and some might consider this crazy, but Loki laughs when you run with him. He has a big open-mouthed smile. He considers it pure joy and his joy is contagious – you can’t help but laugh with him. People talk about a runner’s high, and Loki gets it. He got it pretty much from the first sprint.
\nWe joined a local group of fellow CaniX friends to run as a pack. Loki usually jogs alongside me when we run solo, but in a pack he loves the chase. He loves to give a flying lick kiss to a fellow dog as we pass them, or they pass us.
\nPack running isn’t about running fast, it’s about enjoying a beautiful run with likeminded individuals who also believe that running is joy. That joy is shared by the whole pack.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lola","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0a1fe95945cfc89d750000ea5da0e02e/f9913/lola-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0a1fe95945cfc89d750000ea5da0e02e/f836f/lola-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0a1fe95945cfc89d750000ea5da0e02e/2244e/lola-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0a1fe95945cfc89d750000ea5da0e02e/f9913/lola-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lola is a rescue dog who has been with us a little over a year ago. She came to us this fully grown dog who still had many many puppy tendencies. We rescued her just before she got to the rehoming centre.
\nShe is this large oaf who doesn’t realise her size, thinking she’s a lap dog. Lola loves a cosy blanket, hates being cold, wet and hates when the wind blows her ears.
\n\n\nLife during lockdown would have been impossible without his companionship
\n
We still have a long way to go with training but she has changed our lives so much. She’s like a wee companion for myself and we’re either playing in the garden together, going for fun walks or cosying in bed watching a movie together. Lola loves her comforts and believe it or not, she loves the vets.
\nWhen she jumps up her paws go on your shoulders and she gives you almost a human cuddle.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Support Dog","Rescue Dog","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lola-alannah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e6753e1a1d8974ae5b33adeb40286c6b/f9913/lola-alannah-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e6753e1a1d8974ae5b33adeb40286c6b/f836f/lola-alannah-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e6753e1a1d8974ae5b33adeb40286c6b/2244e/lola-alannah-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e6753e1a1d8974ae5b33adeb40286c6b/f9913/lola-alannah-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I adopted Lola nine years ago. She was rescued from an Irish puppy farm. Now, she is 11/12 and I adore her.
\nWhen I was meeting with the adoption charity, they said I wouldn’t be able to do much with her as she was a beagle. But Lola is now more qualified than I am. She competed at flyball and currently holds the most points for a beagle in the UK. She has completed her Gold Kennel Club. She has certificates for scent detection, tracking and man trailing, but her best skills are tricks. She loves to perform!
\n\n\nShe’s more qualified than I am
\n
Lola is totally motivated by food. She will often tell me when she deserves a treat when we are out. She also loves to wrap up under the duvet and at least two blankets. She adores people, especially my dad. This can be embarrassing due to the noise she makes when she sees him, and afterwards she’ll wee with excitement.
\nLola is awesome. She has supported me through so much and knows many of my secrets. My relationship broke down just before the pandemic and having Lola made things better.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lola-catherine","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5bd01dc64864e6be9c27f7c389cfdcad/f9913/lola-catherine-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5bd01dc64864e6be9c27f7c389cfdcad/f836f/lola-catherine-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5bd01dc64864e6be9c27f7c389cfdcad/2244e/lola-catherine-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5bd01dc64864e6be9c27f7c389cfdcad/f9913/lola-catherine-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lola is the light in the family. She greets you with cuddles and barks when you walk in the door like you’ve not seen her for 10 years.
\nIf you’re having a bad day, she cheers you up. She always knows when something’s wrong. And even when she’s been for a four-mile walk, the squeaky toys come out as soon as she gets home.
\nLola is a rescue dog, and we were told we wouldn’t be able to train her or walk her off-lead. Now she always walks without a lead, sits at the curb before crossing and stops on the country lane when she hears a car.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Adult","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lola-elisabeth","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7c96606b767cdf2a1a1bb7ca3ec30083/f9913/lola-elisabeth-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7c96606b767cdf2a1a1bb7ca3ec30083/f836f/lola-elisabeth-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7c96606b767cdf2a1a1bb7ca3ec30083/2244e/lola-elisabeth-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7c96606b767cdf2a1a1bb7ca3ec30083/f9913/lola-elisabeth-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nShe always knows when something’s wrong
\n
Lola is a live wire who’s full of energy, like many Lurchers. We adopted her as a small puppy and she’s now nine years old.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s full of energy, like many Lurchers
\n
We go most places together and she loves going to pubs, restaurants, cafes etc. She enjoys lying there on a mat, just being with us. She also loves cuddling up on the sofa.
\nLola is a home girl. She currently shares her home with a relative’s Whippet, Lexi, who we look after during the day when her owner is at work. They get on well and race around together at a similar pace. Lola snorts and dreams when she’s asleep, so she twitches a lot, which is always funny.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family"],"slug":"meet-lola-geffen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUEBgL/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB2QqcauieiZ4gdQI//8QAIBAAAgAEBwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxITBBEhIyQyM//aAAgBAQABBQIrLAu7lmXDpQqZVqNMYONI9k6//8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAICH/2gAIAQMBAT8Bg//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQIBAT8BH//EAB4QAAIBAwUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhARcSExMkFC/9oACAEBAAY/AruKL+b7HEbjoLJ2PJGn/8QAGxABAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFhsVH/2gAIAQEAAT8hcAB1LcZ5ZbvphIGpeOTZbcZA4o6giC2CCyfs2Z//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEOjHw//EABgRAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBFR/9oACAEDAQE/EEGZEO3/AP/EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQMf/aAAgBAgEBPxAhk//EAB4QAQACAgEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAIRExQVGRocHw/9oACAEBAAE/ELs9KL1MTyFkDIW111OWOb+mIO0suuk1FUwRQXdxwQ28EQ7wUkOnAjwwroX8Mv0vU//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/91322cc78a483cb4e3d33da53d8be6d8/f9913/lola-geffen-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/91322cc78a483cb4e3d33da53d8be6d8/f836f/lola-geffen-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/91322cc78a483cb4e3d33da53d8be6d8/2244e/lola-geffen-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/91322cc78a483cb4e3d33da53d8be6d8/f9913/lola-geffen-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lola is the best doggie – she’s always loving and loyal.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s always loving and loyal
\n
We got her for our son who was struggling with Tourette’s syndrome, anxiety and depression, and she’s helped him more than she will ever know.
\nMy son and Lola even share the same birthday, so they have a very special bond.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lola-gemma","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMFAgT/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgD/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAY7PNJoixk+YGQZ//8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQMAAgQTISIy/9oACAEBAAEFAsdd2VSnUviJKaVLVzYuAdb+iTP/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8BK//EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABETEQIjIh/9oACAEBAAY/AtY8IbluzlmhZ2Tiz//EAB4QAQACAQQDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQVFxgZHx/9oACAEBAAE/IVIhbNsskIukfqlZ83djJeX6h3FkVYY6inVP/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCA4H3/xAAYEQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREQQf/aAAgBAwEBPxB1kRzP/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARQVH/2gAIAQIBAT8QnEsr/8QAHhABAAICAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFhgVFxkdH/2gAIAQEAAT8QZlVYDT1r8hXM20vwcQBynxACAJlL9jLDA5C5ayTJGlUKHG4iu91pL+9DP//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e14fe9224956748f9c319bcad8ad9991/f9913/lola-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e14fe9224956748f9c319bcad8ad9991/f836f/lola-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e14fe9224956748f9c319bcad8ad9991/2244e/lola-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e14fe9224956748f9c319bcad8ad9991/f9913/lola-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have struggled with poor mental health, but Lola has been my saviour and my reason to get better. She needed me when I didn’t need myself.
\nLola is an intelligent, energetic and entertaining pooch. She loves long walks and getting super muddy, but I don’t mind as she’s great company and has helped me forget about the world this last year. When out and about she’s a whirling dervish but always comes back and taps her nose on my hand when called. She loves drinking fresh water, so much so that she always lies down in the puddle or pond in order to lap it all up!
\n\n\nLola has been my saviour
\n
One of her favourite things to do is to sniff out a tennis ball in the long, wild meadows. She also loves being out in the garden with her best friend,our cat Shadow. They frolic and play together, though the cat definitely has the upper hand with his climbing prowess.
\nWhen Lola gets really excited, she runs around the fire pit and randomly digs up the ground. Thankfully, the garden is a wildlife friendly area, so wedon’t mind it getting ripped up a bit in the name of fun. If she’s tired, she loves a good nap and curls herself up into some strange positions, sleeping around our necks and against the back of the sofa.
\nLola’s needs aren’t that different from my own. Long walks on wet and rainy days, exploring, observing and snuggling have helped us both to getthrough this last year.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Senior","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lola-gemma-london","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/34effcf49beb799369f137957c56b4cf/f9913/lola-gemma-london-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/34effcf49beb799369f137957c56b4cf/f836f/lola-gemma-london-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/34effcf49beb799369f137957c56b4cf/2244e/lola-gemma-london-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/34effcf49beb799369f137957c56b4cf/f9913/lola-gemma-london-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lola was our first dog and from the moment we brought her home she had such a positive impact on our lives. She is such a loving, kind soul who loves cuddles and anything that pops, including balloons and party poppers – but her absolute favourite is bubble wrap! She also loves being chased around the garden at 10pm because she won’t come inside!
\n\n\nShe led me to find my dream job as a puppy supervisor
\n
I started to research dog behaviour when she was having some issues with other dogs, and it has now led me to find my dream job as a puppy supervisor at a dog day-care. I have gained so much knowledge and experience because of her.
\nI now have four dogs and they have each led me onto something more to progress my career and involvement in the dog world. I have gained some incredible friends through my dogs, but it all started with my beautiful Lola. I will always be in her debt for the way she has impacted my life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet London","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-london","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a441e9337d80d592a0b47cad4e1cfab8/f9913/london-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a441e9337d80d592a0b47cad4e1cfab8/f836f/london-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a441e9337d80d592a0b47cad4e1cfab8/2244e/london-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a441e9337d80d592a0b47cad4e1cfab8/f9913/london-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My mum bought London for me in the summer of 2017. I went all the way to Germany to collect him. She was so happy with our new puppy – he was sweet and gentle with all our other dogs. Mum knew that I would enjoy showing him off at dogs shows, talking him for long walks and grooming him.
\nShe also knew that she wouldn’t be with me for much longer. By November, she had passed and I was devastated. But having London gave me the strength to carry on. Just as she’d hoped, I went out for walks and took him to dog shows – he gave me a reason to keep going, day in, day out.
\n\n\nGave me the strength to carry on
\n
London was patient with my tears, staying by my side throughout everything. Now, slowly and gently, he guides me through life. From the moment I get up in the morning to the moment I arrive home from work, he’s always there for me. Recently, he became a father to a wonderful puppy called Aster, who has been like a shining light of hope for the whole family this year.
\nMy dog London truly is the gift that keeps on giving. He enhances my existence every day, and I couldn’t be without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lola","tags":["Adorable","Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lola-gill","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ba1fda44f01278eac686e8b2d3138c48/f9913/lola-gill-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ba1fda44f01278eac686e8b2d3138c48/f836f/lola-gill-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ba1fda44f01278eac686e8b2d3138c48/2244e/lola-gill-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ba1fda44f01278eac686e8b2d3138c48/f9913/lola-gill-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lola, a white and black Staffie, burst into our lives in 2018 as a seven-year-old rescue dog. Our other dogs had died that year and Lola was the bundle of joy we all needed. She came on a visit from the Rescue centre and never left.
\nShe gets super excited every time she sees an adult and always greets them with enthusiasm. When she sees children, however, she’s much calmer and more relaxed. Lola is our granddaughter’s best friend.
\n\n\nLola is our granddaughter’s best friend
\n
Once, a little lamb found its way into our garden and got its head stuck in the fence. Lola stayed beside the lamb and started to bark until I came to find her. She helped me to save that small creature’s life, which is just another example of how loving and sensitive she is.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lottie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lottie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ae73b60fac2b417802a9d98f4326af31/f9913/lottie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ae73b60fac2b417802a9d98f4326af31/f836f/lottie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ae73b60fac2b417802a9d98f4326af31/2244e/lottie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ae73b60fac2b417802a9d98f4326af31/f9913/lottie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our pooch Lottie has got bucket loads of character. Whenever anyone comes round to visit, she automatically thinks they’re there to see her andgets her toys out to show off!
\n\n\nShe’d just lie there with me
\n
When I was off work a couple of years ago, she never left my side. I’d spend all day resting on the sofa and she’d just lie there with me. Lottie has three feline companions who she adores, and regularly tries to round up as though they’re hers to look after.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Louie","tags":["Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-louie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2d0f85ab9b6e3858342d7ffa4d062113/9a128/louie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2d0f85ab9b6e3858342d7ffa4d062113/f836f/louie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2d0f85ab9b6e3858342d7ffa4d062113/2244e/louie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2d0f85ab9b6e3858342d7ffa4d062113/9a128/louie-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"I had a stroke at the age 32, and it knocked me sideways. I struggled to live my life how I had before, and as a result was feeling quite low. My partner knew exactly how to get me moving, and that was by bringing Louie into our lives. We fell in love with him instantly, and he helped me to get more active and find a focus again.
\n\n\nWe fell in love with him instantly
\n
Louie is always smiling, loves playing with his toys and is the best cuddle-giver. He is so mischievous, and we often find socks and underwear that he’s stolen and hidden in the garden. He also likes to help when we’re doing projects around the house, though often he’s more of a hindrance – like when he thought he could paint the wall by dipping his head into the paint tin!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lucas","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lucas","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4eb83cc53dac0ef38c119505d473e686/f9913/lucas-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4eb83cc53dac0ef38c119505d473e686/f836f/lucas-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4eb83cc53dac0ef38c119505d473e686/2244e/lucas-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4eb83cc53dac0ef38c119505d473e686/f9913/lucas-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lucas is my boy, my shadow and my fur baby, and he means the world to us. He came into our lives when he was 13 months old. We don't know an awful lot about his past, other than he had two previous homes before he found us.
\nAt home, he’s adorable. He’s the funniest, most loving dog who greets us with a happy dance and a smile. When it comes to the outside world, he just doesn't understand it. He becomes anxious, scared and is obviously uncomfortable. We’ve done everything we can to help him through this, but after five years, we’ve decided to just follow his lead.
\n\n\n\n\nI always say that Lucas found us
\n
Lucas is happiest as a sofa surfer. He likes nothing more than curling up or stretching out in the sunniest spot. When I’ve been ill, he’s been at my side. When I cry, he comforts me. When we laugh, he gets excited too.
\nI always say that Lucas found us, and I truly believe he did. It was only when we got him home for the first time that we realised he was born on the day that my mum passed away. He was meant to live with us, support us and love us, and we were meant to return this in abundance. He’s also the reason I started my small business. So, thank you Lucas, my child with four paws.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lottie","tags":["Support Dog","Brave & Loyal","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lottie-kerry","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a5acf27be5ac2a2247d0bcf37ed8e1e9/f9913/lottie-kerry-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a5acf27be5ac2a2247d0bcf37ed8e1e9/f836f/lottie-kerry-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a5acf27be5ac2a2247d0bcf37ed8e1e9/2244e/lottie-kerry-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a5acf27be5ac2a2247d0bcf37ed8e1e9/f9913/lottie-kerry-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lottie has had such a positive impact on my life in every way. I was diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease and the doctor said I needed to try and live a happy, stress-free life. After a couple of years of researching dog breeds, we chose a Shih Tzu and here she is!
\nShe’s changed the lives of our whole family massively. Personally, I’ve really benefited from the extra exercise and her calming influence. I have to take tablets each day but Lottie is definitely a pill I couldn’t live without! A dog is the best medicine.
\nShe also brings such joy to our extended family with her love and attention. She greets everyone with a kiss and a cuddle, or rolls over for a tummy tickle! I can’t get out of bed in the morning without a Lottie cuddle – she doesn’t allow it. Lottie isn’t really one for tricks but chasing and fetching balls is one of her favourite things.
\n\n\nA dog is the best medicine
\n
And she hasn’t just brought joy to us. I work in a school office and, after one particularly bad day during the pandemic, I came home, sat on the sofa with a cup of tea and Lottie next to me, and thought ‘I need something else to distract me from work.’
\nSo, in January 2021, Barking Mad Cheshire came alive. It’s a group for dog lovers and businesses, and a year later I’ve got over 4,500 members. The joy and positivity that Lottie and the other dogs in the group have brought to so many people is unbelievable. I’ve received a number of messages saying how the group has helped people during sad times and got them through difficult days, especially during the pandemic.
\nLottie is such a joy and I can’t imagine my life without her. She’s a loving, loyal little dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lucia","tags":["Puppy","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lucia","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f2bcc6bfd44eae7716fb1e319e031003/f9913/lucia-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f2bcc6bfd44eae7716fb1e319e031003/f836f/lucia-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f2bcc6bfd44eae7716fb1e319e031003/2244e/lucia-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f2bcc6bfd44eae7716fb1e319e031003/f9913/lucia-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lucia makes us laugh every day – she’s an entertainer with such a unique personality. She’s even learned to ring a bell! She’s cheeky but also so loving, greeting anyone she meets with a wholehearted cuddle.
\nWe welcomed a daughter last year and Lucia loves her. She’ll lick the baby’s feet and try to comfort her when she’s crying. She loves all people and dogs and thoroughly enjoys going anywhere.
\nWe are always having to stop on walks for Lucia’s meet and greets with the public. We really would be lost without her and she’s a very big part of our family.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lucy","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lucy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3e7b3cd79439468faa7fbb98cf70fb85/f9913/lucy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3e7b3cd79439468faa7fbb98cf70fb85/f836f/lucy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3e7b3cd79439468faa7fbb98cf70fb85/2244e/lucy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3e7b3cd79439468faa7fbb98cf70fb85/f9913/lucy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nShe makes us laugh every day
\n
Lucy is the happiest, cheekiest little pup there is. Although she has arthritis, she still loves to play and always keeps a teddy bear close by. In her prime she loved to chase cats around the garden, but now she’s older she enjoys just lying down and waiting for them to approach her. She’s also obsessed with cold things, and will sit and growl at her bowl of water if it reaches room temperature until we replace it!
\n\n\nLucy is also the neighborhood watchdog
\n
Initially, my son was uninterested in her, but now they’re best buddies. He gives any of his leftover food to her and she’s always more than willing to eat it. Lucy is also the neighborhood watchdog. Every night, she sits outside just watching the world go by and doing her part to protect us all.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lulu","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lulu","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/069d7abeb90c7860fa16f26b38db81d7/f9913/lulu-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/069d7abeb90c7860fa16f26b38db81d7/f836f/lulu-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/069d7abeb90c7860fa16f26b38db81d7/2244e/lulu-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/069d7abeb90c7860fa16f26b38db81d7/f9913/lulu-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lulu the Springer Spaniel is very special to me. She was born three days before Christmas in 2015, and has been my very own guardian angel ever since. As my four-legged best friend, she’s always managed to keep my spirits high, even at the very hardest of times.
\n\n\nA bit of a mischief-maker
\n
She loves her squeaky duck toys, cuddles and running around the fields near our home. She’s also a bit of a mischief-maker and is always looking for a dirty puddle run through! Lulu gets everything she wants and even has her very own spot on the living room sofa.
\nBack when I had my horse, she would come to the stables with me to ‘help’ me do jobs and run alongside me as I rode. Sadly, I lost my horse unexpectedly, but Lulu was there to help me through my grief every step of the way. She is a loyal, caring dog who is truly one-of-a-kind and a huge part of my life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lulu","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lulu-caroline","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/95bd8bbbff759a9898e879646d2a3ea1/f9913/lulu-caroline-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/95bd8bbbff759a9898e879646d2a3ea1/f836f/lulu-caroline-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/95bd8bbbff759a9898e879646d2a3ea1/2244e/lulu-caroline-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/95bd8bbbff759a9898e879646d2a3ea1/f9913/lulu-caroline-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our Maltese, Lulu, brings us such joy every day. We both work long hours as a chef and housekeeper, and Lulu is happy to wait for us in our flat, sleeping during the day or quietly entertaining herself with all her toys.
\nShe loves to lie at the top of our staircase, waiting for us to climb to the top to and rub her stomach before she stretches awake. She even has her own mini staircase to climb onto our sofa and our bed at night. She insists on sleeping right at the top of the bed in between the two of us, and never wakes up before we do.
\n\n\nShe just likes being with us
\n
We both suffer from allergies and don’t have always have time to take her for very long walks, but we chose her breed as she’s hypoallergenic and very happy with just a short walk and play. She doesn’t often need to be entertained and never really demands attention. She just likes being with us, and we love having her to cuddle and laugh with. She’s always in a good mood!
\nWe always plan our day off around her and she always comes with us on car journeys around the UK during our holidays. She loves an adventure, but also loves to lie down and do nothing sometimes, too.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lulu","tags":["Adult","Family","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-lulu-lucy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/bb1adcb7aaa5ca58c542195838aa9cb9/f9913/lulu-lucy-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bb1adcb7aaa5ca58c542195838aa9cb9/f836f/lulu-lucy-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/bb1adcb7aaa5ca58c542195838aa9cb9/2244e/lulu-lucy-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/bb1adcb7aaa5ca58c542195838aa9cb9/f9913/lulu-lucy-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Lulu came into our lives 18 months ago, when she chose me at the rescue by placing her paws on my knee and looking up at me. My daughter and husband (who isn’t a dog person) fell in love with her, too, and she was one of my inspirations for setting up my own dog grooming business.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s improved my social life
\n
She’s not only got my husband and I out walking each day, but she’s also improved my social life. I now stop to talk to other walkers, which is so helpful as we didn’t know anyone here when we moved.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Lulu","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-lulu-rob","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ea5e364f00ece3093b3f02bf62146a0f/f9913/lulu-rob-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ea5e364f00ece3093b3f02bf62146a0f/f836f/lulu-rob-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ea5e364f00ece3093b3f02bf62146a0f/2244e/lulu-rob-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ea5e364f00ece3093b3f02bf62146a0f/f9913/lulu-rob-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This is Lulu. We got her from a rescue centre a few years ago after she'd clearly had quite a rough time with a breeder who'd definitely over-bred her. She just looked so sad when we saw her, and the kids fell in love with her on the first meeting.
\n\n\n\n\nShe thinks she's a lot smaller than she is
\n
We'd vowed to get a small to medium-sized dog, and she is NOT that! She's lazy as hell, she sheds everywhere, she barks too much for no reason, she has the most evil farts and she’s now a bit incontinent, but we love her to bits.
\nWe even love it when she climbs up on the sofa between us, when there clearly isn't enough room for her. She thinks she's a lot smaller than she is, bless her!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luna","tags":["Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-luna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7f35b70903530a45d33883958e7cf9d9/f9913/luna-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7f35b70903530a45d33883958e7cf9d9/f836f/luna-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7f35b70903530a45d33883958e7cf9d9/2244e/luna-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7f35b70903530a45d33883958e7cf9d9/f9913/luna-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Luna is a very bouncy, barking-mad bundle of joy. I suffer from anxiety quite badly. Luna is my support and my comfort. She makes me smile with her antics, and having her around makes me go outside. When I walk with Luna, it relaxes me, improves my mood and my health. When she senses I'm upset – or even if I cough or stub my toe – she comes running, jumps up to me and licks my face to make sure I'm okay.
\n\n\nWhen I look at Luna, I feel so much love and happiness, my heart is full
\n
She is a very quirky dog, as most Doodles are. She likes to sleep upside down a lot, she dashes around the house and jumps from sofa to sofa in wild excitement. She barks at animals on the telly even when they are cartoon ones. She will often bounce down the road on her back legs like a kangaroo, she wants to say hello to everyone and everything. She is incredibly nosy and watch people if they are painting their fence or gardening. She is loyal and loving. When I look at Luna, I feel so much love and happiness, my heart is full.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luna","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-luna-alex","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/797f273d627677508809d58d383294dc/f9913/luna-alex-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/797f273d627677508809d58d383294dc/f836f/luna-alex-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/797f273d627677508809d58d383294dc/2244e/luna-alex-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/797f273d627677508809d58d383294dc/f9913/luna-alex-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Luna is an amazing dog, who’s not only changed our lives, but has also bought joy to so many other people as well. She visits our local hospital and meets patients in the stroke unit.
\nShe has an uncanny knack of knowing who needs her most, snuggling up to them and placing her head near their hands so they can pet her. Sometimes, she’ll even lie on the bed next to them. She manages to bring a smile to all of the patients’ faces.
\n\n\nAn uncanny knack of knowing who needs her most
\n
Luna is a typical Labrador who loves food and sleeping upside down on the sofa. Swimming is one of her favourite sports, followed closely by running through muddy puddles until she’s completely soaked! She’s a very laid back dog, nothing seems to faze her, even the arrival of a crazy black Labrador puppy into the family.
\nLuna takes it all in her stride, and is truly a joy to be around.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luna","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Funny"],"slug":"meet-luna-daisy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6b42ea5cafb9f081d3881457468c8b1b/f9913/luna-daisy-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6b42ea5cafb9f081d3881457468c8b1b/f836f/luna-daisy-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/6b42ea5cafb9f081d3881457468c8b1b/2244e/luna-daisy-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/6b42ea5cafb9f081d3881457468c8b1b/f9913/luna-daisy-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Luna’s a rescue dog from Ireland, who we’ve had since she was just nine months old.
\nShe’s loveable and calm natured, but also the strangest dog (in the best way) that you’ll ever meet.
\n\n\n\n\nLuna is very set in her ways
\n
Luna is very set in her ways and doesn’t like anything outside of her usual routine. She won’t walk a different route and will lie down and refuse to move like a stroppy toddler! She likes her own seat on the sofa and waits for treats at the same spots on her walk. She really is the heartbeat of our family home.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luna","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-luna-denise","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d1cad068a2941e0415954bc51ee5c265/f9913/luna-denise-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d1cad068a2941e0415954bc51ee5c265/f836f/luna-denise-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d1cad068a2941e0415954bc51ee5c265/2244e/luna-denise-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d1cad068a2941e0415954bc51ee5c265/f9913/luna-denise-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Luna from a rescue centre soon after lockdown. She’s been my husband’s saviour as he suffered heart failure after contracting Covid and will never be fully well again, either physically or mentally. Luna seems to know when to give extra love and she sits with him to comfort him. She keeps me sane too, as I can get out for walks with her and chat to other dog owners.
\nShe is such a sweetie and loves nothing better than rolling on her back wherever she fancies. This can be on the carpet indoors, outside in the sunshine, on the grass, on the beach or most recently in the snow. Sometimes she has a naughty day and will roll in mud, or worse!
\nShe’s also really lazy and will easily sleep for 10-12 hours at night, which we don’t mind at all. Her latest thing is demanding a head massage by thrusting her head into my lap and then she closes her eyes in bliss!
\nEvery day she amazes, astounds and brings us such joy, which is a bonus as she came with a list of behavioural issues that have all disappeared. She travels well and we’ve taken her 500 miles to Scotland on holiday where she loves the forests, beaches and the self-catering cottage we rent. We couldn’t hope for a better companion.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luna","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-luna-emma","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/602473a76fbe06fbb498bf786fd97683/f9913/luna-emma-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/602473a76fbe06fbb498bf786fd97683/f836f/luna-emma-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/602473a76fbe06fbb498bf786fd97683/2244e/luna-emma-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/602473a76fbe06fbb498bf786fd97683/f9913/luna-emma-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nWe couldn’t hope for a better companion
\n
I’ve had Luna since she was eight weeks old. Even though she’s been a crazy one from the start, she’s also been a godsend for me. I have a brain condition that affects me daily, and it also means I struggle with my back. I have more bad days than good, and Luna has noticed this as she has got older.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s been a godsend for me
\n
I think because I’m the only one who walks and feeds her, we have a very strong bond. If she sees me struggling to get up when I’m in pain, she’ll come and grab the cuff of whatever I'm wearing and pull me up. If I'm having to walk slow when we’re out, she’ll walk slowly by my side.
\nSometimes if I'm having a bad moment of sleepiness and have to lean on something, Luna will come over and nudge me from behind or appear beneath me and stand up to help me up. I know when she’s just being a playful pup, but I can also tell when she’s being genuinely caring and trying to help me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luna","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Family"],"slug":"meet-luna-freya","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c5a050c9ba271fabba60bd833bc9980e/f9913/luna-freya-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c5a050c9ba271fabba60bd833bc9980e/f836f/luna-freya-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/c5a050c9ba271fabba60bd833bc9980e/2244e/luna-freya-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/c5a050c9ba271fabba60bd833bc9980e/f9913/luna-freya-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Luna is my beautiful 5-year-old black Labrador, and she’s the calmest and most loving best friend you could ever imagine.
\nShe sleeps at the foot of my bed every single night, obviously under a blanket, and slowly migrates her way up the bed throughout the night, until she's sharing my blankets and pillows and snoring loudly in my ear! She gets up at 6am every single day to jump between my parents, where she lies asleep on her back for tummy tickles until they get up.
\nHer best friend is her little \"sister\" Maia, our nearly 3-year-old black Labrador. She's very stuck in her routine and enjoys a quiet life. She loves walking at the local nature reserve where she can run and swim to her heart's content, and she spends most of the day asleep on one of our beds (her MANY beds are never as comfortable as ours are!).
\n\n\n\n\nShe's definitely my spirit animal and knows what's up!
\n
Every day at 6pm on the dot, she finds one of us and won't leave our side until she's been fed. When she hears the Life360 notification that indicates my dad's return from work, she runs to the door until she sees his car pulling into the driveway, where she proceeds to bark loudly to tell us to open the door for her to go and greet him. After that, it's back to bed until her nightly walk around the village – the absolute highlight of her day.
\nOne of her (very many) little quirks is that she hates being dirty. After walks in the rain, she follows us until one of us washes her feet, she won't sleep in a bed until it has a clean blanket in it, and her favourite place to lie is in one of our beds after we've changed the sheets. She's definitely my spirit animal and knows what's up!
\nWhen she's not on the bed, Luna can be found snuggling on the sofa between Maia and her feisty (and rather grumpy) feline brother, Felix, probably on the one small section of the sofa not covered in a dog blanket! Her favourite place in the world is the beach, especially those in Scotland, so we take the dogs on an annual trip to explore the beautiful beaches of the west coast. Upon seeing the sand, she gets the zoomies and will run around in pure joy until she reaches the sea!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mabel","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mabel","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGgABAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQIFBv/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMBAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB3rzy41yWUvdtCn5oCv8A/8QAHBAAAQQDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAwECERIABBAx/9oACAEBAAEFAh1VDOsNIjWbVDDlsYH3n//EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8BYmv/xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAR/9oACAECAQE/AWor/8QAHRAAAQIHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARAhAgISIxkf/aAAgBAQAGPwI34stvKJ0WFP8A/8QAGhAAAwEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIUExUf/aAAgBAQABPyHIqw1rx8BoZRLSQ1Q8olh4j6uE0//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQeyA//8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPxAX/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATEAEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8QD28uf//EABsQAQEBAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExQXGB/9oACAEBAAE/EDQkIq8wbASRyfHPrHC0HWZSjYXzm66qDL5mVZ+YCCCN47urUPMwgUjN/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c5dd5d0d07aa66d976208ecd817c4d11/f9913/mabel-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c5dd5d0d07aa66d976208ecd817c4d11/f836f/mabel-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c5dd5d0d07aa66d976208ecd817c4d11/2244e/mabel-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c5dd5d0d07aa66d976208ecd817c4d11/f9913/mabel-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mabel is a blonde bundle of fluffy fun, with a laid-back personality. She loves everyone and she thinks that everyone automatically loves her!
\n\n\nShe thinks that everyone automatically loves her!
\n
I love that she is a bit of a monkey, who totally doesn’t care if she has done something wrong. She just looks at you with her big brown eyes as if to say ‘what’s the problem?’
\nMy favourite thing to do is cuddle her, as well as teaching her new tricks. Now she can high-five, beg, give a paw and roll over.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Luna","tags":["Family","Adorable","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-luna-sasha","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a4ac0a45cdc4e3faa77bc4f86c3a207c/9a128/luna-sasha-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a4ac0a45cdc4e3faa77bc4f86c3a207c/f836f/luna-sasha-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a4ac0a45cdc4e3faa77bc4f86c3a207c/2244e/luna-sasha-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a4ac0a45cdc4e3faa77bc4f86c3a207c/9a128/luna-sasha-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Luna as a puppy from our local Dogs Trust in June 2021. She has completely changed our world for the better. My partner suffers with PTSD and having Luna in our lives has made the dark days bright. She gives us purpose, companionship, a reason to do more physical activity and of course, lots of laughter.
\n\n\nShe’s made the dark days bright
\n
Luna enjoys most things, but she especially loves swimming and playing football. On her walks she will always collect any plastic bottles she finds and carries them home to be put in the recycling bin.
\nShe's so full of character and does a great job at an eye roll if you’re saying something uninteresting!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mac","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mac","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e6e2c994eae2152830d4fa879b1b028b/f9913/mac-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e6e2c994eae2152830d4fa879b1b028b/f836f/mac-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e6e2c994eae2152830d4fa879b1b028b/2244e/mac-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e6e2c994eae2152830d4fa879b1b028b/f9913/mac-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mac is a two-year-old Golden Retriever and he is the most wonderful boy. He loves toys, especially stuffed animals. His favourites include a shark, a teddy bear, two hedgehogs, two sheep plus many more.
\n\n\nHe loves toys, especially stuffed animals
\n
Whenever someone comes to our front door, Mac always greets them witha toy, regardless of whether they want it or not. He’s got such a friendly nature that he insists we say hello to all of the dogs and people we see on\nour walks. He also adores running, sliding and rolling around outside, particularly when it’s snowy or if he’s near the water.
\nWorking from home has been a strange adjustment but having Mac around has made it so much easier, and he gives me the motivation I need to carry on each day. It’s amazing the difference a happy dog can make to your life. Mac is a bundle of joy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mac","tags":["Funny","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-deb-mac","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9b546e27851ae2044453870ae51945b7/f9913/mac-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9b546e27851ae2044453870ae51945b7/f836f/mac-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9b546e27851ae2044453870ae51945b7/2244e/mac-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9b546e27851ae2044453870ae51945b7/f9913/mac-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mac is my confidant. I have health issues and have had to retire because of them, but Mac keeps me going, even on my darkest days. It’s almost as though he can sense when things are really bad, because he’ll always give me lots of cuddles to cheer me up.
\n\n\nMac keeps me going
\n
Balls are his favourite toy, so he has a rather large collection. He also has a few quirky habits, like how he hates walking on the tiled floor and will refuse to come in unless I put his bed down for him, or how much he barks at the postman. Mac always waits until you’ve finished your food before he eats his, just in case you give him any extras!
\nAs he’s getting old, he has a few health issues now, but as soon as you throw a ball, he turns into a young pup again. He does look like an old man with his bushy eyebrows and podgy tummy, but that just makes him all the more adorable.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mackenzie","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mackenzie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0f865269c6149070c7ade2eb9a38db53/f9913/mackenzie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0f865269c6149070c7ade2eb9a38db53/f836f/mackenzie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0f865269c6149070c7ade2eb9a38db53/2244e/mackenzie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0f865269c6149070c7ade2eb9a38db53/f9913/mackenzie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our beloved boy Mackenzie has given us so many precious memories. From jumping onto a stranger’s skateboard when we walked past a group of teenagers to running into a shop and stealing a bread roll, we’re alwayslaughing when he’s around.
\n\n\nWe’re always laughing when he’s around
\n
We have our ups and downs as a family, but Mackenzie is the glue that holds us all together. We’ll cherish our time with him forever.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Macy","tags":["Support Dogs","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-macy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/dc3a2fae875674bc1218a4d66203abbf/f9913/macy-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dc3a2fae875674bc1218a4d66203abbf/f836f/macy-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/dc3a2fae875674bc1218a4d66203abbf/2244e/macy-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/dc3a2fae875674bc1218a4d66203abbf/f9913/macy-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Macy is a very special Labrador. She was once an unwanted delinquent puppy, but as soon as I met her, I knew we shared a special connection. She still has issues from her past and can scare easily, but together we’vedeveloped her confidence and now she has a unique way of communicating with me.
\nI suffer from a debilitating hearing condition called Hyperacusis and it makes everyday life difficult. Macy has learnt to alert me to sounds that she knows will affect me. She stays by my side no matter what.
\n\n\nShe’s helped so many people and their pets
\n
Throughout lockdown, Macy has worked with me to provide free training tips and exercises that people can do at home with their dogs. She’s helped so many people and their pets to stay motivated during this time.
\nAt 11 years old, Macy is showing no signs of slowing down. She’s always agreat foster sibling to the rescue dogs we look after and cares deeply not just for her family, but for all those around her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Madge","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-madge","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b3e0250f62db23da029dabfa710e7835/f9913/madge-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b3e0250f62db23da029dabfa710e7835/f836f/madge-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b3e0250f62db23da029dabfa710e7835/2244e/madge-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b3e0250f62db23da029dabfa710e7835/f9913/madge-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Madge is quite simply my heart and soul. We understand each other on a level that cannot be described, and she is my constant shadow and best friend.
\nI have a photography project where I travel around the UK photographing the UK’s rare breeds of ponies. Madge accompanied me on a major expedition to the Outer Hebrides and the Highlands of Scotland. It was just us, meeting wonderful people along the way, and she was that piece of home when it started to feel lonely.
\n\n\nWe understand each other on a level that cannot be described
\n
We even went to Snowdonia in Wales on our own, when I wanted to get away from the world and just be with her surrounded by the hills and wildlife.
\nWe also love visiting the sea, where we are starting to paddle board. The first day, when I put the board in the water and went to get on (having never been on before), Madge was at my side with her paw on the board ready to join me. She soon jumped on when I set off and we learned to balance together – she pays close attention to my movements so she knows which way we are going.
\nMadge loves to be with her family. She always greets me with an excited wag and wants to be cuddled immediately. She loves to do tricks, especially if there is a play or treat involved after. She always knows when I need her to be with me, and she is able to help me relax and de-stress. She is simply perfect and what she means to me cannot be summarised in a paragraph.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maggie","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Funny"],"slug":"meet-maggie-christine","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d314be1c2283ede634b48541b630be21/f9913/maggie-christine-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d314be1c2283ede634b48541b630be21/f836f/maggie-christine-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/d314be1c2283ede634b48541b630be21/2244e/maggie-christine-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/d314be1c2283ede634b48541b630be21/f9913/maggie-christine-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Maggie is the first dog I’ve ever owned (and I’m 63 years old).
\nWe got her three years ago and she’s changed my life so much. I cannot believe how much I love her!
\n\n\n\n\nShe's funny, demanding and affectionate
\n
She's funny, demanding and affectionate. We go on cottage holidays to Wales now instead of overseas holidays. And because of her, I’m enjoying nature and the simplicity of life in a whole new way.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mabel","tags":["Adult","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-mabel-elizabeth","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/50aacdec1fda64995c35f1539db4d783/f9913/mabel-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/50aacdec1fda64995c35f1539db4d783/f836f/mabel-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/50aacdec1fda64995c35f1539db4d783/2244e/mabel-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/50aacdec1fda64995c35f1539db4d783/f9913/mabel-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mabel came into our lives after we lost our Jack Russell Rosie at 16 years old.
\nThe hole left in our hearts was so large, but when we met Mabel, we fell in love instantly, as she looks like a fox and is absolutely gorgeous!
\n\n\n\n\nShe adores going to new places
\n
She’s a lovely girl who comes everywhere with us on our travels across the UK in our motorhome. She’s even stayed at the Andaz Hotel in London and travelled on an Elizabeth line train. Safely sitting in her backpack, she explored central London and loved it.
\nShe adores going to new places but also loves coming home to see our nine grandchildren and four ‘grandogs’.
\nWe are now off on a three-week adventure to Wales, and again, Mabel will be visiting many of our beautiful sights and discovering new sniffs.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maggie","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-maggie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/aae2a8e7d1c7179bc1bd89a5b4fea403/f9913/maggie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/aae2a8e7d1c7179bc1bd89a5b4fea403/f836f/maggie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/aae2a8e7d1c7179bc1bd89a5b4fea403/2244e/maggie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/aae2a8e7d1c7179bc1bd89a5b4fea403/f9913/maggie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Maggie made our lives complete when we adopted her from Greyhound Trust West Wales. She’s an ex-racer and was very timid and nervous of men at first. She’s settled with us really well, and now works as a therapy hound for Greyhound Rescue Wales. She visits students in colleges and universities in South Wales, where she enjoys lots of attention and treats.
\n\n\n\n\nWe strive to give her the loving family life she so deserves
\n
She’s very aloof and a bit of a diva. But she’s absolutely gorgeous, and always turns heads in the pub – which she loves visiting! She also loves going for walks and then crashing out on our comfy sofa or bed until it’s her mealtime.
\nMaggie’s very partial to chicken and cooked broccoli and, of course, the occasional treat. We like to think that Maggie has fully adopted us too, and we strive to give her the loving family life she so deserves.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mags","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mags","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFBgEC/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgEA/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGyqJ1aVFeyOgzhNwU//8QAHRAAAQQCAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgABERIDISIjQf/aAAgBAQABBQJz6r6KZPg00TlvKvV//8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAQ/9oACAEDAQE/ASSc/8QAFxEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQEf/aAAgBAgEBPwFqK//EABsQAAIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACEAERMVGB/9oACAEBAAY/Ammq7LGDk//EABoQAQADAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAETEhQVH/2gAIAQEAAT8huxePYc9h8Nh0GlUR0id9lnVppfsKrVtiz//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQ5x8//8QAGBEAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERMRD/2gAIAQMBAT8Qi1iLpjn/xAAZEQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAQITH/2gAIAQIBAT8QLSgxy3//xAAcEAEBAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhUTFBYbH/2gAIAQEAAT8QPuBD3ENL0sNCP7kZqCj3bgwefG0lfR1wBTFMNuXPB0LzF9FXFRI7VuIOf//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/225d6610d18dcef3b3381b9f94fa66fb/f9913/mags-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/225d6610d18dcef3b3381b9f94fa66fb/f836f/mags-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/225d6610d18dcef3b3381b9f94fa66fb/2244e/mags-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/225d6610d18dcef3b3381b9f94fa66fb/f9913/mags-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mags is our Red Fox Labrador who came to us after a relative could no longer look after her. She's a crazy little bundle of energy who brightens every single day.
\n\n\nShe’s given us a new lease of life
\n
I've got generalised anxiety disorder and OCD and she's helped me cope and just let go of things. My partner was also recently made redundant, but she's given him a purpose to get out of bed in the morning. She's given us both a new lease of life.
\nShe loves stealing toilet rolls and chewing books, and she loves a bubble bath. She's so funny and energetic and just a beautiful soul. She loves everyone, including other dogs. She chases leaves and chases her tail – she’s just a bundle of joy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maia","tags":["Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-maia","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/84b8a0f2c3ffde8e1a850337b25dfff6/f9913/maia-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/84b8a0f2c3ffde8e1a850337b25dfff6/f836f/maia-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/84b8a0f2c3ffde8e1a850337b25dfff6/2244e/maia-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/84b8a0f2c3ffde8e1a850337b25dfff6/f9913/maia-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We bought Maia because everything in our life was going so right, and the only thing that was missing was her! We went around and looked at a few litters, but nothing felt right until she climbed into our arms. I was never allowed pets growing up, so to have her in my life now is a love I never knew. She is so loving and loyal. Truly one of a kind, she loves to lie at one end of the room rolling the ball to me and enjoys laying on the sofa with her head in my lap.
\n\n\nOne of a kind
\n
She’s the best dog a person could ask for. She pulls us up on our down days and brings us higher on our good ones. A dog is the only thing in life that loves you more than itself.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maki","tags":["Funny","Rescue Dog","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-maki","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/308d4f81b0c58bd8154e7f9260822e1e/f9913/maki-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/308d4f81b0c58bd8154e7f9260822e1e/f836f/maki-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/308d4f81b0c58bd8154e7f9260822e1e/2244e/maki-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/308d4f81b0c58bd8154e7f9260822e1e/f9913/maki-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Maki is a Romanian rescue who came over to the UK in January last year. Ifostered him for a few months and instantly fell in love. I knew I’d be working from home for a while, and Maki was a sweet boy who made me laugh and smile every day.
\n\n\nI can see it’s building his confidence
\n
When he first arrived, he was scared of everything and always stuck very close by my side. Now he’s settled he goes to scent training classes, as it’s an activity he can do with little distraction and no other dogs around. He really loves this, and I can see it’s building his confidence.
\nMaki also has a very mischievous side, and his favourite thing to do is run upstairs and un-make my bed! He usually leaves one of his toys up there, which always gives him away. Having Maki by my side has massively boosted my mental health. He rescued me just as much as I rescued him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maisie","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-maisie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAv/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAB02nKtbkmYZacCv/EABsQAQACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAiExAxAR/9oACAEBAAEFAqYqI9GjZgLM9jyWJ//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQIBAT8BH//EABwQAAEDBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAjEQICFRYf/aAAgBAQAGPwIN0sGglEhzhxTZ/8QAGhABAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBgf/aAAgBAQABPyEVBRiBXhPsVZrDyCiCugg4KUOy0coZ/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDQ/wC//8QAFxEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQABEP/aAAgBAwEBPxAYzhl//8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAR/9oACAECAQE/EBbW1tb/xAAdEAEBAAIDAAMAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAxIUFhcYGR/9oACAEBAAE/EACeQjaeHWAEqUEezNcV+4Qq4LtrbjX1AkU7+/MkEu7HvFg1mSF4vxgQEg6z/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fc0b35bc50aeb7a807fc53dce467f964/f9913/maisie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc0b35bc50aeb7a807fc53dce467f964/f836f/maisie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fc0b35bc50aeb7a807fc53dce467f964/2244e/maisie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fc0b35bc50aeb7a807fc53dce467f964/f9913/maisie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Maisie is a loving, sociable dog. Even though she has doggy dementia, she still adores life and loves long walks, body boarding and rock pooling! I love going with her and watching her snorkel – once she even caught a crab!
\n\n\nShe treats our guinea pigs like her puppies
\n
She also loves little kids and treats our guinea pigs like her puppies, grooming them and sharing (or stealing) the veg from their plates as she loves sprouts! She will do a repertoire of tricks if you don’t give her a treat.
\nShe is intelligent, stubborn and intuitive and can identify when my partner is in pain to the point when she will lie against her back and refuse to move when she has a flare up. Maisie has also helped me through tough times, allowing me to gradually get from agoraphobic to being able to go out with her by my side.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mango","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mango","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8be7a0f986925c341f2235a43af908c3/f9913/mango-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8be7a0f986925c341f2235a43af908c3/f836f/mango-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8be7a0f986925c341f2235a43af908c3/2244e/mango-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8be7a0f986925c341f2235a43af908c3/f9913/mango-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mango has made life in lockdown so much more enjoyable. She loves playing in the garden and is a very fast runner! When there is hot weather, Mango loves jumping around in the water from the hose. She also loves playing with ice cubes filled with treats.
\n\n\nShe has been such a loving companion while we work from home
\n
We love her cute snoring and clown-like behaviour. She has been such a loving companion while we work from home. She loves nothing more than playing with other dogs, her food (which she munches down in seconds!) and playing with squeaky toys. We love you Mango – you might be a bit of a clown, but we wouldn’t change a thing!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mango","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mango-shauna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4b3f268e89db1ab01e4b205282004bb8/f9913/mango-shauna-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4b3f268e89db1ab01e4b205282004bb8/f836f/mango-shauna-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4b3f268e89db1ab01e4b205282004bb8/2244e/mango-shauna-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4b3f268e89db1ab01e4b205282004bb8/f9913/mango-shauna-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have severe endometriosis and fibromyalgia and had to have a full hysterectomy three years ago at age 32. I have no children and unfortunately will be unable to have any now. My mental health suffered as a result of this and other ongoing chronic illnesses, so in July 2021, I adopted Mango from Romania using a charity called EuroPaws.
\nI saw one photo of her prior to her arriving from Romania, and I went to collect her at 4am, straight from the van she’d just spend four days travelling in. Out came the most beautiful girl, and as soon as I had her in my arms, I fell madly in love with her. From that day ‘til now, 13 months later, I can honestly say every day has been better because of her.
\n\n\nEvery day has been better because of her
\n
She has such a wonderful personality and has bonded with me so completely that people comment on it regularly. She is my best friend and my reason to get up in the morning. She sleeps in the funniest positions, gets beyond excited when she sees her doggy friends, talks to me in grumble noises when it’s time for us to go to bed and LOVES a walking adventure.
\nShe goes everywhere with me. We love to explore all over Scotland, and she adores lying in her bed in the passenger seat of the car while I drive. She’s the laziest dog in the mornings and has been known to not go for a pee until 5pm because she’s too lazy to walk down the stairs. She also has huge ears to match her huge personality and everyone who meets her falls in love with her.
\nI truly feel she was meant to be mine and we’re so perfectly suited to each other. She really is my child replacement, and I wouldn’t be without her now. She’s my happy place!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Marley","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-marley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/db7109df259ef7a8af56712b25a37107/f9913/marley-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/db7109df259ef7a8af56712b25a37107/f836f/marley-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/db7109df259ef7a8af56712b25a37107/2244e/marley-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/db7109df259ef7a8af56712b25a37107/f9913/marley-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Marley is a rescue dog that we adopted around 10 months ago. When we adopted him, he was very underweight, dirty, scared and had visible wounds and cuts.
\nHe’s now the sweetest, most affectionate and loving dog who adores cuddles, tummy rubs, playing games and snuggling up on the sofa with us. He’s also very gentle with my two children and lets them play with him, pick him up and cuddle him. He sits so well for a groom and brush, too!
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s honestly the best, most loving dog we could have ever wished to adopt
\n
Marley was starved when he was younger, so now he absolutely loves his food. He goes crazy at dinner time – howling, barking and jumping up and down like a kangaroo waiting to be fed. He loves his treats and barks in the corner of the kitchen where they’re kept whenever he’s hungry. It’s hilarious.
\nMarley also has a cheeky habit of jumping onto our kitchen table to try and steal some food. We have even found him on the worktop occasionally!
\nHe loves his walks, too, and always likes to sniff stuff and follow cats. He’s honestly the best, most loving dog we could have ever wished to adopt.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Marley","tags":["Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-marley-lucienne","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/04deca029dbaa520998aa3a18ebe5c9c/f9913/marley-lucienne-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/04deca029dbaa520998aa3a18ebe5c9c/f836f/marley-lucienne-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/04deca029dbaa520998aa3a18ebe5c9c/2244e/marley-lucienne-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/04deca029dbaa520998aa3a18ebe5c9c/f9913/marley-lucienne-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Marley came into our lives at five months old, as a sensitive but funny pup. He didn't like loud noises and eventually stopped going out for walks in the evening as he was scared of fireworks, and associated them with the dark.
\nHe is a big tail wager, and developed 'Happy Tail Syndrome.' After the third bout, his tail was amputated but this hasn’t stopped him wagging what he has left.
\n\n\nA wonderful, gentle soul
\n
Marley is a wonderful, gentle soul and is the most patient pal to our two children. We now live in the countryside, which means all his fears are easing. He loves his walks and snuggles on the sofa, and apples are his favourite treat.
\nHe truly is a beautiful boy, greying around the face and getting slower over the last few years, but such an important member of our family!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Max","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-max","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/424a020dd98314a1881d5ee01d34ac12/f9913/max-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/424a020dd98314a1881d5ee01d34ac12/f836f/max-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/424a020dd98314a1881d5ee01d34ac12/2244e/max-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/424a020dd98314a1881d5ee01d34ac12/f9913/max-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Max is my West Highland Terrier. He’s always making us laugh, especially when he tries to be at one with nature – he spends hours watching the birds in our birdbath, and loves playing with the squirrels in the garden.
\nHe likes to keep me company on the charity walks that I take part in. Last year, my wife and I completed a 16-mile walk for the British Heart Foundation. We came home absolutely shattered, but energetic Max lay down for a grand total of 10 minutes, before running around like a sprinter again! This year, I’ve completed a 3.4 million step challenge for Diabetes UK, with my little mate Max by my side all the way.
\n\n\nMax gets excited by anything and everything
\n
Max gets excited by anything and everything, which is a joy to see. The first time he visited the beach, he ran around and around in circles, to the point where my wife was crying with laughter! When he first saw snow he rolled over until he was soaked through – he just has so much energy and finds happiness in everything.
\nHe makes us smile every day. One of the things he loves most is cuddling with his mum (my wife). He’ll jump up and paw at her until she gives in and lets him flop onto her lap. He gets jealous when we’re snuggled up without him, and will even wedge his way in-between us so as not to miss out!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Max (Maximus Barkus)","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-maximus-barkus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fc822ad0466f7044a0c48fd7fb7b57b3/f9913/maximus-barkus-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc822ad0466f7044a0c48fd7fb7b57b3/f836f/maximus-barkus-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fc822ad0466f7044a0c48fd7fb7b57b3/2244e/maximus-barkus-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fc822ad0466f7044a0c48fd7fb7b57b3/f9913/maximus-barkus-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Max first came to us as an emergency foster from a shelter in Spain. We immediately fell in love with him and completed the adoption process soon after.
\n\n\nMy physical and mental wellbeing started to improve
\n
During lockdown, I was furloughed and then made redundant. Max got us out of the house as we walked to local beauty spots every day, and I found that both my physical and mental wellbeing started to improve. Now, we enjoy travelling further afield visiting National Trust sites, nature reserves and pretty places all over Cheshire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire.
\nWe are so lucky to have found Max and welcomed him to our family. Being out in nature on walks has made a big difference to our lives – I’m hoping to start a blog featuring all our dog-friendly walks, so others can share in the joy of dog ownership and enjoying the great outdoors.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Max","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-max-jess","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6a28c79019b908c95fd48257bb829f75/f9913/max-jess-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6a28c79019b908c95fd48257bb829f75/f836f/max-jess-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6a28c79019b908c95fd48257bb829f75/2244e/max-jess-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6a28c79019b908c95fd48257bb829f75/f9913/max-jess-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Max has been renamed ‘Super Max’ by all the local children as he often goes into schools to meet them. We have a programme where we teach young children how to be safe around animals, and their favourite part is coming to stroke him at the end of the lesson.
\nMax is amazing with all the children and can walk into any environment calmly, making everyone feel instantly relaxed. A lot of children who were initially too scared to sit with the class during the first part of the session will build up confidence to come and say hello to him by the end.
\n\n\nHe’s been renamed ‘Super Max’ by all the local children
\n
He has also helped me hand-rear lots of rescue kittens over the years, and more recently a litter of wild baby rabbits. He loves the babies and will protect and clean them like they’re his own.
\nOn top of everything, Max has helped a lot of other dogs build up their social skills. He is such a kind and calming influence. He always knows they’re nervous so he’s very patient with them.
\nOver the last five years, he has come out with me on all my training sessions as my wingman and he’s never put a foot wrong! He really is the bestest boy through and through.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Max and Millie","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-max-and-millie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9bc18fb24be724ba10ed593ef93cf9de/f9913/max-millie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9bc18fb24be724ba10ed593ef93cf9de/f836f/max-millie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9bc18fb24be724ba10ed593ef93cf9de/2244e/max-millie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9bc18fb24be724ba10ed593ef93cf9de/f9913/max-millie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We had not long moved into our first home, and decided to adopt a rescue dog from the local rescue centre. After looking at a couple, we eventually went to Birmingham dogs home where we set our eyes upon Max. He looked so sad in his kennel, he had no name and apparently, he was a stray. After getting him out of the kennel into the exercise area, he loved being outside and running around. He gave us that ‘feeling’ and four days later we brought him home.
\n\n\nWe noticed an instant change
\n
It was the start of a journey — he was scared of everything. However as soon as you let him off his lead, his half-greyhound side comes out and boy does he love to run! The woods are his favourite place to explore and chase the squirrels and rabbits. Although we had made progress with him, it was clear he needed a friend so we were advised to get another dog— and this is where we welcome Millie!
\nFrom the same rescue home, Millie was six when she came home with us. We noticed an instant change in Max. He was more confident, not so scared of the big wide world. As Millie likes to socialise with other dogs (typical Labrador trait) we started to meet with other dog owners in the local park, and now at least once a week we meet up and let the dogs play.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Max","tags":["Adorable","Family","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-max-natalie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d48b523f360608d899344904e5cc3426/f9913/max-natalie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d48b523f360608d899344904e5cc3426/f836f/max-natalie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d48b523f360608d899344904e5cc3426/2244e/max-natalie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d48b523f360608d899344904e5cc3426/f9913/max-natalie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"After many years of saying ‘One day we will get a dog’ and looking at everyone else getting puppies, we researched and looked and Max came into our lives at 15 weeks old in June 2021. He has brought the family together for walks and makes us smile. He’s very laid back and chilled, except when there is a cat walking across the garden. The way he trots, it’s almost like he’s a show pony!
\n\n\nThe way he trots, it’s almost like he’s a show pony!
\n
My youngest daughter often finds new situations stressful and can clam up, but Max is able to give her the confidence to try, and always reassures her that it’s OK. He has fitted into our lives and even enjoys a caravan holiday. But even though he enjoys exploring new places, he is just as happy being with us all.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maxi","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-maxi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/80c63e5847124b61a8fb6c73165e1c87/f9913/maxi-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/80c63e5847124b61a8fb6c73165e1c87/f836f/maxi-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/80c63e5847124b61a8fb6c73165e1c87/2244e/maxi-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/80c63e5847124b61a8fb6c73165e1c87/f9913/maxi-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Maxi became a member of our family when she was just six months old. We’d decided to get a dog as my daughter Ella was being bullied at school, and as an only child we knew she needed a new type of best friend. We found Maxi in a rescue centre. She was gentle and adorable with Ella from the moment they met, and so full of fun. The way Ella’s facelights up whenever she sees Maxi brings us endless joy.
\n\n\nShe was gentle and adorable with Ella
\n
Maxi loves food, especially roast chicken, but she also grazes the grass like a sheep. She is a dream off the lead, and although she’s friendly with all the other dogs and people she meets, she sees squirrels and are cats as her nemesis! She came into our lives at a perfect time, and we all love her to pieces. She helped Ella’s confidence to grow, and for that we will always be grateful.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maya","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Adult","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-maya","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/99dc7d6f9bad3f4a3dd044f2e3f6e362/f9913/maya-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/99dc7d6f9bad3f4a3dd044f2e3f6e362/f836f/maya-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/99dc7d6f9bad3f4a3dd044f2e3f6e362/2244e/maya-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/99dc7d6f9bad3f4a3dd044f2e3f6e362/f9913/maya-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Maya is the light of my life. I had wanted a dog for years, but my landlords had a strict no pet policy, which led to me saving to buy my first flat. Fast forward to June 2017, and I had been in the flat for just one week when I went to the local dog rescue centre for a ‘look around’. I was introduced to Maya, a three-year-old Brindle Lurcher who had been there over three months. We took her into a field and even though she was off lead, she walked so close to heel that her feet were catching the back of my sandals.
\nIt was love at first sight and she came home the next day. From day one, me and Maya had an inexplicable bond. I couldn’t drive when I got her, but taking her on public transport was tricky as she was quite large and nervous. So, I learnt to drive and bought my first car, all for her. In 2019, we decided we absolutely needed a garden to relax in. So, once again motivated by my love for Maya, I sold up and bought a house with a garden.
\n\n\nShe is the best decision I have ever made
\n
Maya has now been with me for five years, and without doubt, she is the best decision I have ever made. During the pandemic, she was my friend, my confidant, my dance partner, my reason to go outside, my zoom quiz partner, my bubble. She's lazy, so I'm lucky to get her out of bed before 11am some days. And she's a dawdler, so I spend 90% of our walks waiting for her to catch up. She's also a fuss pot and she won't eat her biscuits for days on end, but will happily scoff a six day old sausage roll that she finds on the floor.
\nMaya wouldn't hurt a fly, so her sighthound skills leave a lot to be desired. She walks straight past rabbits without a care in the world and wakes me up crying at 2am if there is a spider. She was once backed into a corner in my friend’s kitchen by a three-legged cat with no tail. All of these gorgeous and hilarious quirks make her the little individual that she is, and more importantly, make me the luckiest person alive.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Maximus","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23","Senior"],"slug":"meet-maximus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQL/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABw+FTd6AKVxngk//EABsQAAEFAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAgMREgQz/9oACAEBAAEFAkyTKBV0oRqVxINAu5mjU3p//8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAR/9oACAEDAQE/ASv/xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8BK//EABgQAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBEx/9oACAEBAAY/AsrmRaxjFr//xAAaEAEAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhQVEx/9oACAEBAAE/IatziLwbxTCDC6hbsqoOu0ax5GtinYk9TsxGqzP/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEH/vgf/EABgRAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABMUFx/9oACAEDAQE/EJduFwj/xAAYEQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREQMf/aAAgBAgEBPxCDgfc//8QAHBABAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBcYFR/9oACAEBAAE/ELHRdcPszmisOzviMREcBaWtn0iJbLXV7ZX3IsCI05gcYhaNxxFAEDiCGYKPYyKwUdCz/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/995511940d9accb164526f7c99abb8de/f9913/maximus-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/995511940d9accb164526f7c99abb8de/f836f/maximus-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/995511940d9accb164526f7c99abb8de/2244e/maximus-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/995511940d9accb164526f7c99abb8de/f9913/maximus-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Maximus is a 7-year-old German Shepherd, a gentle giant with a heart of gold.
\n\n\nWe are so proud of him!
\n
Over the lockdown period we have had to care for my sister, who is currently receiving chemotherapy for bowel cancer. I can honestly say that Maximus has been like a magnet to her. On chemotherapy days he waits for her to return, and then doesn’t leave her side once she’s home. He has amazed us all and we are so proud of him!
\nHe is a delightful boy, and is obviously very sensitive to how people are feeling. We love him dearly.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet McLaren","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mclaren","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECBAMF/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHxNdO01iSjTYIB/8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxIiEyEx/9oACAEBAAEFAixx40VR2tjrixdHqP/EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQIBAT8BH//EABsQAAIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIQIQESBB/9oACAEBAAY/AkYVKtPCNf/EABkQAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIRFRMf/aAAgBAQABPyHZqrSMT6h4Q5lCnSN7nDIdti4N+nRH/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDj6AL/xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABAR/9oACAEDAQE/EDYN/wD/xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREQ/9oACAECAQE/EHKPf//EABwQAAIDAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERACFBMVFxwf/aAAgBAQABPxBEhYrjsQVAUABN6+mafdhwdrbYYimAGrfe8yAZC4VkNEWdhynw/ZxP/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e3c5dec06b250b875f0e5755c5144874/f9913/mclaren-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e3c5dec06b250b875f0e5755c5144874/f836f/mclaren-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e3c5dec06b250b875f0e5755c5144874/2244e/mclaren-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e3c5dec06b250b875f0e5755c5144874/f9913/mclaren-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"McLaren is a Canine Partner Assistance Dog, so not only is he a great companion, but he is a brilliant help to me in my everyday life. He picks up dropped items, lends me a paw when I’m doing the washing and even gives me more confidence when we go out and about.
\n\n\nHe’s such a cheeky chap
\n
Everyone loves McLaren, he’s such a great ice breaker. He’s a cheeky chap, and loves to clown around and make you laugh. He also has a penchant for gloves and socks, and will happily steal them and parade round the house, hoping to be bribed with treats for their safe return!
\nI’ve been shielding since March and I haven’t been able to go out to the shops or see friends or family, so having McLaren with me has had a huge positive impact on my wellbeing. He cheers me up if I’m feeling lonely, is always up for an adventure and loves playing games of hide and seek or dancing to music. He is my hero.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Meg","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-meg","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1f624edd767cf0174142f0ea6ad428b2/f9913/meg-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1f624edd767cf0174142f0ea6ad428b2/f836f/meg-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1f624edd767cf0174142f0ea6ad428b2/2244e/meg-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1f624edd767cf0174142f0ea6ad428b2/f9913/meg-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got Meg when she was about a year old. She was in the worst state – filthy, horrifically skinny and terrified of everything, including me. I was suffering a lot with my mental health at the time. We literally saved each other.
\n\n\nWe literally saved each other
\n
She has since then been diagnosed with a serious medical condition called IMHA which can be controlled, but not cured. She is essentially on borrowed time, but I am determined to give her the best time possible, however long she’s with me. I owe her everything.
\nThankfully she doesn’t know she’s poorly. She has turned into such a happy little pooch who is far more confident, although I have never been able to get rid of her fear of things that buzz!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Meg","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23","Senior"],"slug":"meet-meg-denise","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d655a1c7fb69130164424c533afc00f1/9a128/meg-denise-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d655a1c7fb69130164424c533afc00f1/f836f/meg-denise-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d655a1c7fb69130164424c533afc00f1/2244e/meg-denise-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d655a1c7fb69130164424c533afc00f1/9a128/meg-denise-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"It took our dog, Meg, about nine years to be able to play with a toy without totally destroying it. She adopted her first cushion football after rooting through a charity bag of toys and claiming it. We’ve since bought her plenty more because she becomes so attached to them. She plays with them, takes them out into the garden and even falls asleep next to them!
\n\n\nShe becomes so attached to them
\n
Meg is not amused when we put her toys in the wash. We’re only forgiven when she can get them back out quickly, sometimes before they’re fully dried. The funniest thing about her obsession is that if you say football, she goes and finds one! She’s a great dog who’s always filling our days with laughter.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Merlin","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-merlin","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1d7c8426b419675db195b07e1967e40b/f9913/merlin-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1d7c8426b419675db195b07e1967e40b/f836f/merlin-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1d7c8426b419675db195b07e1967e40b/2244e/merlin-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1d7c8426b419675db195b07e1967e40b/f9913/merlin-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Merlin is a very friendly and good-natured Black Labrador. He’s also extremely helpful, and likes to assist his Aunt Scatty (our neighbour) clean out the stable. He follows her up and down the paddock whenever she’s going to the trailer, keen to be of use in any way he can.
\nAs my unofficial assistance dog, Merlin helps my husband Darren care for me. He fetches him when he thinks I need a hand and always looks after me when I fall. He loves to be there for me, picking up things when I drop them and carrying my stuff around the house.
\n\n\nMerlin is my companion and my best friend
\n
My medical problems and disabilities mean that I spend a lot of time resting and confined to my bed. You can always find Merlin curled up on the end, keeping me company. Sometimes, he shares the role with Sammy the cat so he can have a break. Merlin is my companion and my best friend. Most importantly, he knows when I’m upset and always gives me extra kisses and cuddles to make me feel better.
\nDarren is diabetic, and so Merlin likes to look after him too. He’s quicker than we are to pick up on his low blood sugar, and always knows when Darren needs his medicine – often, he’s the one reminding me!
\nMerlin is very caring and affectionate, but he can also be a little scamp. He loves putting his cold nose in your ear and trying to give you a bath. He also likes to lend a paw whenever he can, and can often be found helping out with DIY jobs around the house. When he’s not assisting us in our day-to-day lives, Merlin enjoys running around outside and playing with his favourite toy, Bertie Bunny.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Merry","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-merry","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCAwX/xAAYAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADBP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABlnowJM9Yj9+AwwM1/wD/xAAdEAACAgEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAwACIRESMjNB/9oACAEBAAEFAnDHm6NTe1E8jUarwg9c/8QAGBEBAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECEzH/2gAIAQMBAT8Ba6jHj//EABgRAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhMx/9oACAECAQE/AW2Ky6//xAAcEAACAQUBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQEjFRgeH/2gAIAQEABj8CuVMlyxoUXFdPDlf/xAAcEAADAAMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMVFBgZH/2gAIAQEAAT8hTD8PYqnd93BfP06Jh2mI4GdA9HzUbleRqScP/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDPN73/xAAYEQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATERUf/aAAgBAwEBPxBLTgSyJ//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABMRH/2gAIAQIBAT8QbwxtKRc//8QAHRABAQACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBUWFxgf/aAAgBAQABPxA0FF6D4TxisWtA3OX3D04VOpbFQhL+tM43NPH544v7MaagcQOusYlWcTpXv7lh0KNesOTQhlz/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e01993b348c670e0811011d448254f01/f9913/merry-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e01993b348c670e0811011d448254f01/f836f/merry-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e01993b348c670e0811011d448254f01/2244e/merry-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e01993b348c670e0811011d448254f01/f9913/merry-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have wanted a puppy since I moved out of my family home at 18 years old. Me and my partner have only just bought our first house. We couldn’t wait, so have got a puppy and he has just made our house a home.
\n\n\nHe is the best decision we have ever made!
\n
Since we have had him he has settled straight in. He brightens up our day as he is very talkative and always talks back when he is told off and it’s adorable. The main thing that we love about him is that he refuses to walk when me and my partner are apart. He only likes to go for a walk when we are together and he walks between us. He just brings us together and is hilarious as he is very curious, but is a bit chicken.
\nHe just helps make us laugh all the time and comfort us during lockdown, especially me as I work in mental health for the NHS. People say it was a mistake to get a dog so soon after moving and working on the house as it’s a lot of responsibility and pressure, but he is the best decision we have ever made!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mei","tags":["Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mei","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8f274444c5d268320cddf6885fd8cf0e/f9913/mei-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8f274444c5d268320cddf6885fd8cf0e/f836f/mei-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8f274444c5d268320cddf6885fd8cf0e/2244e/mei-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8f274444c5d268320cddf6885fd8cf0e/f9913/mei-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When my parents first came home with a hyperactive Springer Spaniel puppy in their arms, I was sceptical to say the least. I have struggled with a phobia of dogs since I was a child, crossing the road whenever I came within barking distance of a dog, no matter how small they were. So, the day they adopted Mei I sat alone by the backdoor, watching my family interact with this tiny, floppy-eared being rolling in the grass and scampering under the garden furniture.
\n\n\nI stopped flinching at every bark
\n
Eventually, my mother dragged me out into the garden and sat me on a deck chair, in the centre of all the action. Mei immediately bounded over to me, sniffing and biting my shoelaces. It was the closest I had been to a\ndog my whole life. She must have liked the smell of my shoes because she soon fell asleep on them. While she slept, I felt brave enough to strokeher fur.
\nOver the coming months, I stopped flinching at every bark, and I even played with her and taught her a few tricks. Now, when I come across a dog in the street or park I react with interest and joy, rather than the fear and anxiety I had always lived with.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mia","tags":["Support Dogs","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mia","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4fda173ef0cde2e1ba99974f6cae04fb/f9913/mia-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4fda173ef0cde2e1ba99974f6cae04fb/f836f/mia-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4fda173ef0cde2e1ba99974f6cae04fb/2244e/mia-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4fda173ef0cde2e1ba99974f6cae04fb/f9913/mia-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mia is a black Staffordshire Bull Terrier. She has short legs and a little white patch on her chest. I first brought her home on a cold night about five years ago, when she was just seven weeks old.
\nInitially, I had to hide her because my husband was against getting another dog after losing our Yorkshire Terrier. For four days she lived in my daughter’s bedroom, sneaking out for cuddles when my husband was out. If he heard her make any noises during the night, we’d have to tell him he was just dreaming!
\n\n\nShe has helped me to cope
\n
One day, I went to get her to take her to the vets for her booster jab. She shot out of the door, down the stairs and bounced straight onto the sofa and sat down next to my husband! I was busted, but Mia quickly won his heart and became a member of the household.
\nMia has such a great personality. Some of her favourite hobbies include stealing Brussels Sprouts from the veg rack, chasing birds and enjoying treats. She sleeps beside us every night in her basket, and every year we celebrate her birthday with a doggy cake and her friends.
\nShe’s such an important dog to me because she helped me to cope after lost my brother. She knows when I’m sad and will give me lots of cuddles and kisses. I truly believe Mia was sent to me for a reason.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mia","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mia-hayley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBAgUD/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAG6TaCOg8C5kI6Izr//xAAaEAACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADEiEj/9oACAEBAAEFAnXyS45yGhLSp8uRokywSrif/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEf/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAgEBPwEf/8QAHhAAAgEDBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERAhAhIjFBYXH/2gAIAQEABj8CfgqanklMwZjfk0xHVpEf/8QAGxABAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWH/2gAIAQEAAT8hSgTbcRz2b6ZHybDI+RawE5QyvwQmtws7TCJ//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABC0EP3/xAAZEQEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARITH/2gAIAQMBAT8QNdmBon//xAAZEQEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEQMUH/2gAIAQIBAT8QL1LTuGf/xAAcEAEBAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhQTFRccH/2gAIAQEAAT8Qa6aCIs3i8SqFrD24KCHn27jVm9K2GVKRe2HkjBUjq8+55Yt/MUKVO72Y9IgZ/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4b21e4b554c26c0150a703f0ad04e012/f9913/mia-header-one.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4b21e4b554c26c0150a703f0ad04e012/f836f/mia-header-one.jpg 200w,\n/static/4b21e4b554c26c0150a703f0ad04e012/2244e/mia-header-one.jpg 400w,\n/static/4b21e4b554c26c0150a703f0ad04e012/f9913/mia-header-one.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mia is a German Shepherd dog who is full of character and just loves to beuseful in the garden. She helps me dig holes, scrape soil and even dig in the manure.
\n\n\nMia will literally follow us everywhere
\n
She also loves to carry logs when we’re cutting down trees or shrubs. Mia will literally follow us everywhere, looking to help. She doesn’t like it whenwe use the rake though, as she thinks it might hurt us!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mia","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family"],"slug":"meet-mia-karen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cfd8bc9b8990db0cf12cfb35fb4ea4a2/f9913/mia-karen-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cfd8bc9b8990db0cf12cfb35fb4ea4a2/f836f/mia-karen-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/cfd8bc9b8990db0cf12cfb35fb4ea4a2/2244e/mia-karen-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/cfd8bc9b8990db0cf12cfb35fb4ea4a2/f9913/mia-karen-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Some people would say Mia is 'just a dog', but she came into my life at a time when I really needed lifting up. My life changed drastically when I became seriously ill when she was five months old, and I am still recuperating six years later.
\nMia brings me so much happiness and has been my only company for years. Her cuddles, wagging tail and happy licks have helped me through the hardest times. She has given me purpose – a reason to get out of bed and carry on.
\n\n\n\n\nHer unconditional love makes every day brighter
\n
A simple glance at her, even when she's sleeping, causes her to wag her tail and make me smile. She loves and accepts the 'real' me, even though her life has not been what I planned for her, but what I can manage to do with her.
\nHer biggest love is water and muddy puddles, the smellier the better. Even the muddy spaniel days are fun! I am so proud of her. She's well behaved and a joy to be around. To me, she's not 'just a dog', she's family – the one mainstay in my life.
\nMia’s the epitome of joyfulness, though crazy at times, and she’s my furever friend! Her unconditional love makes every day brighter. Here's to celebrating the bond that makes life so special.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mickey","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mickey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/43e8e7240da7e6ca6eb5368b254b2200/f9913/mickey-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/43e8e7240da7e6ca6eb5368b254b2200/f836f/mickey-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/43e8e7240da7e6ca6eb5368b254b2200/2244e/mickey-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/43e8e7240da7e6ca6eb5368b254b2200/f9913/mickey-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mickey is my sons’ best friend. As teenage boys go, that dog certainly gets his fair share of cuddles and kisses off them!
\nIf any of us feel down, sick or just want to have a cuddle, then Mickey is there. Mickey is the best companion to all of us and he is not happy unless he is sat with – or on top of – someone.
\n\n\nHe just loves to share his love!
\n
He has a soft caring nature and always wants a kiss. I'll admit his nickname is ‘Lickey Mickey’ because we get non-stop kisses from him. He just loves to share his love!
\nLet's just say, Mickey also likes the finest thing in life as you can see in his picture!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mickey","tags":["Senior","Funny","Rescue Dogs"],"slug":"meet-mickey-annamaria","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/48654589cdaedbeca336cecd10f01531/f9913/mickey-annamaria-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/48654589cdaedbeca336cecd10f01531/f836f/mickey-annamaria-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/48654589cdaedbeca336cecd10f01531/2244e/mickey-annamaria-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/48654589cdaedbeca336cecd10f01531/f9913/mickey-annamaria-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mickey didn’t have a great start in life. Not only was he abandoned by his first owner and kept at the shelter for 18 months, but when he was eventually adopted, he was returned after a few days for being too boisterous.
\n\n\n\n\nMickey is very lively
\n
Since we adopted him 10 years ago, we’ve found that Mickey is very lively and loves playtime, snacks and spending time with his human and doggy friends. He also enjoys walking, bringing us his favourite toys at any given moment and foraging for berries (and has an acquired taste for only picking the ripe ones!).
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Miele","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-miele","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5751d9baa363459a9fb83fb4b4f661fb/f9913/miele-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5751d9baa363459a9fb83fb4b4f661fb/f836f/miele-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5751d9baa363459a9fb83fb4b4f661fb/2244e/miele-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5751d9baa363459a9fb83fb4b4f661fb/f9913/miele-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"People meet Miele and tell us she’s a human. She has this piercing, soulfullook, so when you stare into her eyes you can’t help but think ‘she gets me’. She makes you want to tell her your secrets and talk your heart out. After spending some time with her, people always feel a sense of relief and an overwhelming calmness. She’s therapeutic!
\n\n\nMiele is an old soul
\n
We take Miele with us to work, and people come in just to see her. They even bring their friends! We believe Miele is an old soul and is here to share her wisdom, something we can all benefit from. And, in return, she gets our unconditional love.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mika","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mika","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b63c332454b7e317ae318732efe52d99/f9913/mika-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b63c332454b7e317ae318732efe52d99/f836f/mika-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b63c332454b7e317ae318732efe52d99/2244e/mika-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b63c332454b7e317ae318732efe52d99/f9913/mika-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mika is a rescue dog. After we lost our last dog, I felt I needed someone else to cuddle. My husband said we were too old for a puppy, so we went to the RSPCA.
\nThe kennels opened and out came a few dogs all barking ‘TAKE ME, TAKE ME’, except for one who was looking and sniffing, without barking. ‘That’s the one’, I said.
\nWe were told she was used to kill badgers as a job. She wasn’t a pet, so she’d had no interaction with people, no affection, and she’d been trained not to bark as that could have alerted the badgers. She has a tattoo in her ear related to the organisation she belonged to. She also has a split tongue and a few teeth missing.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s become very loving and sleeps by my side
\n
Mika had various problems that we’ve overcome. For instance, she had no fear of other dogs, however huge they were, and used to take balls from their mouths. She wasn’t affectionate, and she was very difficult to feed. In fact, she would sometimes go a day or more without food, so we had to visit the vet every week to get her weight taken.
\nNow, she’s become very loving and sleeps by my side. She walks so close to me, I could almost fall over her. We changed her diet, so she’s put on weight, but she still doesn’t get on with other dogs if she’s on a lead. We’ve have had her for seven years now – it’s been a bit scary at times, but well worth it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Millie","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-millie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUBAwQG/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAG7x58yNxDV2zQt40f/xAAeEAACAgAHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMEABESEyExMv/aAAgBAQABBQJTms82krKXFiXbgZyxD4seR2/J/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAH/2gAIAQMBAT8BKf/EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABACMf/aAAgBAgEBPwEnD//EABkQAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhAREv/aAAgBAQAGPwI5RujcHeCr/8QAGhABAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIUEQUf/aAAgBAQABPyFAWaQX2aEsxqUCXhZyOFWUGRtuAvyOlfk//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABBb0EL/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARIf/aAAgBAwEBPxA46zS3/8QAGREAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQETFB/9oACAECAQE/EMIUqb//xAAdEAEAAgMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRYXGB/9oACAEBAAE/EKl7TNahD4fVKvWTUEdRIync+qg0tIobu6jpitrdq+2YrA8Ry3A/VxV9uxwBdOT/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/137bf122424a3c6bcc58e918fffa5fbb/f9913/millienew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/137bf122424a3c6bcc58e918fffa5fbb/f836f/millienew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/137bf122424a3c6bcc58e918fffa5fbb/2244e/millienew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/137bf122424a3c6bcc58e918fffa5fbb/f9913/millienew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Millie came to us from a rescue shelter based in Romania. She's been a positive influence in our lives in from the day we got her, which seems fitting seeing as she was a gift for my wife to celebrate six months of sobriety.
\n\n\nMille has been my motivation
\n
I live with a chronic illness called Fibromyalgia. Since diagnosis, my general health and mobility has been declining due to pain and fatigue. Millie has been my motivation to become more active and get out of the house every day. It's such a joy to see her having fun, and she's even enabled me to forge new friendships.
\nMy illness isn't going away, but thanks to Millie, my quality of life has improved immeasurably. She's a rescue dog, but really, she rescued me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Millie","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-millie-ashlea","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2b108c6d11a0b94d4b0462e0f95de6a3/f9913/millie-ashlea-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2b108c6d11a0b94d4b0462e0f95de6a3/f836f/millie-ashlea-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2b108c6d11a0b94d4b0462e0f95de6a3/2244e/millie-ashlea-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2b108c6d11a0b94d4b0462e0f95de6a3/f9913/millie-ashlea-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Millie is a rescue Golden Retriever who has been part of our family for just over a year now, alongside her sister Bella, who is a rescue tortoiseshell cat.
\nWe live in the Forest of Dean so Millie’s absolute favourite thing is long hikes through the forest, where she can run after squirrels and wallow in every muddy puddle, pond and stream she can find.
\nMillie was a little nervous when we first got her, but now she’ll go up to any person she sees for fuss and cuddles. Unfortunately for her, some people are less keen for cuddles after she’s had a good mud roll.
\nMillie was previously kept in an outside run and had never been in a house before we brought her home, but she’s now fully adapted to a life of luxury, snoozing on the sofa or our bed! She’s a beautiful, gentle and sweet-souled girl. I may be biased, but to me, she is the dog of the year every year.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Millie","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-Millie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fdcbf0e52feec59ea92cd1ba9a8bd20d/f9913/millie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fdcbf0e52feec59ea92cd1ba9a8bd20d/f836f/millie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fdcbf0e52feec59ea92cd1ba9a8bd20d/2244e/millie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fdcbf0e52feec59ea92cd1ba9a8bd20d/f9913/millie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nTo me, she is the dog of the year every year
\n
Millie is a 13-year-old Border terrier who looks after my elderly parents. You can see that she really cares about them. Every morning, she gets up and goes into their bedroom to check they they’re ok. When she goes on awalk with them, she never walks too fast because she knows they can’t keep up
\n\n\nShe really cares about them
\n
Once, my dad collapsed in the living room, and Millie lay by his side and would not move until the ambulance came. We basically had to force her to step aside, and once he’d been taken away, she became very sad and lay in her bed until he arrived back home. She didn’t perk up until he came back home, when she became so excited and happy again.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mildred","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mildred","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/553e51b94d660449292b57944cd6a2d7/f9913/mildred-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/553e51b94d660449292b57944cd6a2d7/f836f/mildred-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/553e51b94d660449292b57944cd6a2d7/2244e/mildred-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/553e51b94d660449292b57944cd6a2d7/f9913/mildred-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got our Mildred from a Rescue home in Chobam around 11 years ago. She didn't have the best start to life, as she was mistreated quite badly as a puppy. We were told by the trainer that she would never be able to give us cuddles or love, as her upbringing had made it hard for her to trust humans.
\nWe decided to give Millie a chance, as we knew we could give her the love she deserved. The first year or two was difficult, as we tried to train her and gain her trust. But we pulled through, and now she’s the most loving, loyal and caring dog.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s the most loving, loyal and caring dog
\n
She truly is part of the family, and she’s even become a part-time therapy dog to us. She knows when anyone is feeling down or upset and will cuddle right up to us. She has these eyes that look right into you. But we have to make sure we have a little treat for her after – especially cheese!
\nFor a dog that was never expected to show love, it’s extremely hard to get her out of our beds! She truly is the best. It just goes to show, if you give dogs a chance and offer them the love they deserve, they’ll be forever grateful.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Millie","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-millie-danielle","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5c00c069e36429193437ab3e23277ad5/f9913/millie-danielle-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c00c069e36429193437ab3e23277ad5/f836f/millie-danielle-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c00c069e36429193437ab3e23277ad5/2244e/millie-danielle-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c00c069e36429193437ab3e23277ad5/f9913/millie-danielle-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I've grown up with dogs all my life. I used to have two German Shepherds, Sabre and Levi. By the time we sadly lost my two best friends, I was 21 and was just beginning my life after university. I met my partner and moved to Manchester for work. Since the beginning of our relationship, I made it clear that I wanted to have a dog in my life again. Sometimes, it felt like it might not happen for another 10 years with work and so on.
\nBut everything fell into place in November 2019 when we brought Millie, our Labradoodle, into our lives. My boyfriend has never had a dog before and Millie has 100% stolen his heart and made him as dog-obsessed as me.
\n\n\nHaving Millie in our life is like a hole has been filled
\n
She's the most loving and chilled out puppy I have ever known. I was ready for the madness and chaos that comes with a puppy but we never really had it. She has many quirks, including sitting upright on the sofa like a human being. She loves to snuggle up into your arms and she's the perfect size to do so.
\nShe is tennis ball-mad, and makes us take her out at 8 pm on the dot for her tennis ball chasing hour! Morning walks are reserved for a gentle stroll through our local woods.
\nHaving Millie in our life is like a hole has been filled. Taking her for her morning walk gives me such a feeling of calm before the day ahead. It's our special time when nothing else in the world matters.
\nOur life now revolves around planning adventures with Millie and doing everything we can to give her the best years of her life. We often ask ourselves what we used to do before we had a dog. Watching her grown, learn and blossom into an adult dog fills us with so much pride – we can kind of see why people might have children!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Millie","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dog","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-millie-dawn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e85f33eef2e23a5ef4238c258b865145/f9913/millie-dawn-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e85f33eef2e23a5ef4238c258b865145/f836f/millie-dawn-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e85f33eef2e23a5ef4238c258b865145/2244e/millie-dawn-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e85f33eef2e23a5ef4238c258b865145/f9913/millie-dawn-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Millie from Bosnia in June 2020. She was a poor frightened girl who had never been in a house or had any love, and she was destined for the kill shelter.
\nWe had to house train her, give her space, build up her trust with us and teach her to walk with a harness. After six months and lots of memorable moments, she finally blossomed into the most loving, loyal and happy dog.
\nShe brings joy to our lives every day. We walk on the beach and go to nature reserves, coffee shops and cafés. Everyone knows her and she even has her own Facebook page with her brother Basil, who we adopted from Budapest six months after Millie.
\n\n\nShe dug up a WWII bomb in our garden
\n
Millie has been Basil’s mentor. He had been badly abused and she has taught him to play and trust other dogs and humans. She puts her paw on his head when he’s anxious and wraps her front legs around him when he’s scared.
\nSince coming into our lives, Millie has gone swimming in our pond with the fish (who were not impressed). She has dug up a WWII bomb in our garden which resulted in the bomb disposal unit being called out. She has caught a blackbird in her mouth without hurting it, and now they are best of friends. She has rearranged the garden, dug up plants, buried our shoes and climbed the trees to steal bird food.
\nWhen we go on holidays together, Millie and Basil come with us, even when we are playing in our band. Our world is a much better place with them in it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Millie","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-millie-sharon","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3d3fddab5dba3b7a4dda681a13da654e/f9913/millie-sharon-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3d3fddab5dba3b7a4dda681a13da654e/f836f/millie-sharon-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3d3fddab5dba3b7a4dda681a13da654e/2244e/millie-sharon-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3d3fddab5dba3b7a4dda681a13da654e/f9913/millie-sharon-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Millie has a very important job to do, which is making me go out on a walk every day. It doesn't matter if it’s raining and cold, or if I'm tired and in pain, Millie needs her walk, and it never fails to make me feel better. Her inbuilt home security system has also enabled me to feel safe and secure in my own home – she may be small, but her bark is mighty!
\n\n\n\n\nWelcoming Millie into my life has been the best decision I've ever made
\n
Millie is the ultimate companion dog. She’s affectionate, loves snuggles and enjoys human company. Playing with her and teaching her new tricks keeps us both entertained. I am constantly amazed at how clever she is, and her intelligence means I am always learning new things about dog training.
\nMillie is also the best stealth sock and loo roll thief in the South West, so there’s never a dull moment with her around. Welcoming Millie into my life has been the best decision I've ever made.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Milly","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-milly","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAv/EABcBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAAP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAdtMbnR2NmiURAf/xAAZEAADAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMAESP/2gAIAQEAAQUCQKdQBwZOCOKs6zwox02K5m8Se7//xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAR/9oACAEDAQE/ATFGf//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQERL/2gAIAQIBAT8Bhl//xAAfEAACAAUFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQESExEkFSYZH/2gAIAQEABj8CTyztFhRQ4OJhelNjUrOsv//EABwQAAIDAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExUUFhcf/aAAgBAQABPyF10Y/ERBfCKCEfYkjIQZoOTfuMCCh6dR4F2KMNQHBDE8qf/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDoCL7/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARMf/aAAgBAwEBPxAzhQxOz//EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQETH/2gAIAQIBAT8QwU//xAAeEAEBAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhUXExYUGRsf/aAAgBAQABPxDYoHmvKe5cR0UG+zv9x5wBCX7yToLN6ZvpxTZpCWuaecJp4BjsYvGggUoYeIAiPm+8PNEjQZ//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e92a4ba4de5f06bb5382b907c6ea7287/f9913/milly-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e92a4ba4de5f06bb5382b907c6ea7287/f836f/milly-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e92a4ba4de5f06bb5382b907c6ea7287/2244e/milly-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e92a4ba4de5f06bb5382b907c6ea7287/f9913/milly-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Milly is so loving and friendly. I suffer with depression and she seems to know when I’m not feeling good and will come and put her head on my lap. She is also a real hero because she has donated blood to the pet blood bank on a regular basis since she was two years old – in September just gone she made her 16th donation!
\n\n\nShe has donated blood since she was two
\n
She loves holidays by the beach with her other half, Daisy, and she has lots of friends that come to our house for play days. She acts all brave when she thinks she has to, but in reality, she’s a big sissy and wouldn’t hurt a fly. Milly always greets people with one of her toys, although she does do a submissive wee wee at the same time, so I have to tell them to watch their feet! She also loves to swim in any water she comes across on our walks and likes to get very muddy, running through all the puddles.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Milly","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-milly-nicky","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d2ace650554eb6e32c3e35c7842c0472/f9913/milly-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d2ace650554eb6e32c3e35c7842c0472/f836f/milly-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d2ace650554eb6e32c3e35c7842c0472/2244e/milly-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d2ace650554eb6e32c3e35c7842c0472/f9913/milly-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Milly is a loved, slightly bonkers, Flat-Coated Retriever.She is a valued member of our family and makes us all laugh every day.She has taken it upon herself to look after everyone and is both an assistance and a therapy dog.
\nRecently, both of my children have been unwell, and Milly looks after them so lovingly.She searches for them when she doesn’t know where they are and lies with them whenever they need some comfort.She even tells us when our daughter is having a seizure, if there is no one else in the room.Milly is incredibly tuned into the children and very gentle and caring, but at the same time she’s great fun and always ready to play.
\n\n\nShe has taken it upon herself to look after everyone
\n
She has many of her own special quirks, and likes to collect stones from the beach, sing along to the harmonica, look after her toy squirrel ‘babies’and always starts every morning with a few yoga poses – a downwards and backwards dog.After breakfast, she runs upstairs to get the children out of bed and give them a good wash.We would all be lost without her and are very grateful to have such a special pooch.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Milo","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-milo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9a78ccca3554c1a6d83b4200d83e01a3/f9913/milonew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a78ccca3554c1a6d83b4200d83e01a3/f836f/milonew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9a78ccca3554c1a6d83b4200d83e01a3/2244e/milonew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9a78ccca3554c1a6d83b4200d83e01a3/f9913/milonew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\nHe 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.
\n\n\nHe was so gentle
\n
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!
\nI 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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Milo","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-milo-donna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6cbdc8f875ba012319feb3037f49dda9/f9913/milo-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6cbdc8f875ba012319feb3037f49dda9/f836f/milo-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6cbdc8f875ba012319feb3037f49dda9/2244e/milo-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6cbdc8f875ba012319feb3037f49dda9/f9913/milo-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Milo is such a happy soul who makes everyone smile. He helped my daughter through a tough time at school and he also assists me in caring for my elderly grandmother. He’s so slow and gentle around her, and my gran adores him so much she even spoon feeds him!
\n\n\nMilo knows the sound of the ice cream van
\n
As a dog who loves his food, Milo knows the sound of the ice cream van and will sit and wait for it to come round. He also visits the local coffee shop and manages to charm the staff into giving him sausages! Milo is such a loving and good-natured dog, and we would never be without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Milo","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-milo-elizabeth","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4db66e568ce6a0521165b5154057c3d4/9a128/milo-elizabeth-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4db66e568ce6a0521165b5154057c3d4/f836f/milo-elizabeth-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4db66e568ce6a0521165b5154057c3d4/2244e/milo-elizabeth-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4db66e568ce6a0521165b5154057c3d4/9a128/milo-elizabeth-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"In August last year, I stumbled across a photo on social media of a little puppy. He had been found with his siblings on the streets of Bosnia and was looking for his forever home. I had thought for a long time about getting a second dog as my older dog is 12 years old and I wanted some company for both of us. After getting through the rehoming process, I was told I had been picked to rehome Milo.
\nWhen I picked him up, a lady walked round the corner with a ball of ears and legs in her arms and instantly I fell in love! Almost a year later and he has led to the most amazing transformation of my life. Before I got Milo, I was withdrawn, anxious, socially awkward, depressed and searching for something.
\n\n\nHe has led to the most amazing transformation of my life
\n
Now, I adore going out on adventures with Milo, and he has also triggered my biggest adventure yet. My other dog, Holly, has severe allergies so we were always limited with treats and food. So, when training Milo, a young street dog who is food motivated, I needed to find something they could both have. This led to me finding my passion for making dog treats, and my business was born – Liz's Pet Bakery.
\nMilo is now chief taste tester and official cuddler! During the week I work full time and at the weekend we regularly attend craft fairs, dog shows and food festivals to showcase our treats. Milo meets and greets all the pups whilst operating his own cuddle booth.
\nWe are now both more confident, social, happy and content and he really did change my life for the better. Although we’ve had low points (and I’ve gone through two carpets and six broadband cables), nothing could've prepared me for the transformation this little lad could bring me. I am proud to say I rescued him, and he wants for absolutely nothing!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Milo","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23","Small"],"slug":"meet-milo-laura","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ca1f51bca495b5898fe83f7664294641/f9913/milo-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ca1f51bca495b5898fe83f7664294641/f836f/milo-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ca1f51bca495b5898fe83f7664294641/2244e/milo-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ca1f51bca495b5898fe83f7664294641/f9913/milo-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I adopted Milo from an elderly lady who could no longer care for him, but prior to that I used to be his walker. He’s now a happy part of our family, alongside our other two dogs and our two cats, who he adores playing with.
\n\n\nHe’s now a happy part of our family
\n
Milo has a calm and caring nature and will always jump onto your lap for snuggles. In fact, he’s so gentle he’s regularly invited to the local primary school to be a reading buddy for the children. He gets to spend some quiet time with them and their books and helps them to stay relaxed.
\nOur dog has brought so much love and affection into our lives. We just couldn’t be without him!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Milo","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-milo-vanessa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5e2a6a706c44adbf28a917adaca912d7/f9913/milo-vanessa-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5e2a6a706c44adbf28a917adaca912d7/f836f/milo-vanessa-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/5e2a6a706c44adbf28a917adaca912d7/2244e/milo-vanessa-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/5e2a6a706c44adbf28a917adaca912d7/f9913/milo-vanessa-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"At almost two years old, Milo was diagnosed with a grade six heart murmur and wonky valves, so he was taking medication to slow the swelling when I fostered him. I was told there was a possibility that his heart could burst before reaching his fourth birthday.
\n\n\n\n\nEvery day is a special one with Milo
\n
Every day is a special one with Milo. With regular heart medication and check-ups, he’s still living his best life at the wonderful age of seven. He attends lots of greyhound and pet awareness events, and his fantastic nature has even helped a few hounds to find their forever sofas, too.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Miri","tags":["Small","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-miri","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/8f6d65de101f807221480d3c60fa9c49/f9913/miri-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8f6d65de101f807221480d3c60fa9c49/f836f/miri-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/8f6d65de101f807221480d3c60fa9c49/2244e/miri-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/8f6d65de101f807221480d3c60fa9c49/f9913/miri-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rescue dog Miri is a Miniature Dachshund, who belied that title when she came to me two years ago through Dachshund Rescue UK. Weighing in at a whopping 12.5kg, she was anything but miniature in stature. She could barely walk, her chest and belly were dragging on the ground, she couldn't lift her head up high, and her breathing was under strain.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s living proof that change can happen, with the right love and care
\n
Skip forward two years and Miri is a svelte 5.1kg. As her size has diminished, her confidence has just grown and grown. She adores cuddles and attention, which she laps up from the residents when I visit my mum in her care home, bringing a huge smile to the faces of those who indulge her.
\nAt the hockey club, she has become the club mascot, and a real inspiration for those who have followed her journey. She’s living proof that change can happen, with the right love and care
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Minnie","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dog","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-minnie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4ee069f908d402101cdff827b30898d3/f9913/minnie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ee069f908d402101cdff827b30898d3/f836f/minnie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4ee069f908d402101cdff827b30898d3/2244e/minnie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4ee069f908d402101cdff827b30898d3/f9913/minnie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My little dog is such a brave star and quite deservedly has a big fan club of schoolchildren. They can't wait to gather round and fuss her when I go to our village school to collect my five-year-old grandson.
\nShe sits like a little angel and patiently enjoys all the stroking and oohs and aahs from the boys and girls. One mum was thrilled when her little girl stroked Minnie as she usually has a terrible fear of dogs, so well done to Minnie for being so lovely!
\nMinnie learned to be brave as a tiny puppy as she was born at the side of a motorway and one of her siblings was actually killed by the traffic. Fortunately, Minnie and her mum were saved and taken to a rescue shelter in Romania, which was safe but rather bleak and cold.
\n\n\nShe was born at the side of a motorway
\n
I had been considering a rescue dog for a while and I just knew this little pup was the one for me. Once again, Minnie had to be brave as she spent three days travelling in a small crate from Romania to the UK in January. It must have been gruelling despite the love and care from the marvellous volunteers at the charity.
\nSince her ordeal, Minnie has blossomed into the sweet, cuddly, gentle, funny and friendly little darling that she is now. She is so funny when she is on her sock-stealing missions. She thinks she’s so clever but she just looks hilarious as she dashes away on her tiny little Queen Anne legs with a pair of socks flapping in her mouth!
\nShe has also started spinning round and round at 100 miles an hour, trying to catch her bushy squirrel tail! And yes, she is a funny shape – a bit of a hairy sausage with stumpy legs and the fluffiest curly tail. But she is a bundle of love and the best little friend anyone could ever want.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mishka","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-mishka-lisa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/04557c7578cb6d41aa204a634d1d6438/f9913/mishka-lisa-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/04557c7578cb6d41aa204a634d1d6438/f836f/mishka-lisa-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/04557c7578cb6d41aa204a634d1d6438/2244e/mishka-lisa-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/04557c7578cb6d41aa204a634d1d6438/f9913/mishka-lisa-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"‘No,’ I said, ‘I don't want another dog.’ It was too upsetting when my beautiful rescue, Murphy, had died a couple of years before. But my friend (a dog sitter) was conveniently and unavoidably going away for the weekend, so asked if I could look after one for a couple of days.
\nI already knew that the owner wanted to rehome the puppy. He was working 12 hours a day, and she had stopped eating or drinking and needed to be put on a drip by the vet.
\n\n\n\n\nWe’re having a wonderful journey through life together
\n
When I picked up the black ball of soft puppy fluff, she nuzzled into my shoulder and subsequently my heart, and we’re having a wonderful journey through life together.
\nShe is exceptionally loving and affectionate, maddeningly barky and full of energy and delight. She passed her assessment to become a PAT Therapy dog and loves to visit patients and residents in care homes to soak up as much fuss as is doggily possible.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mishka","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mishka-sam","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1f84e8f5da85b74743c4491f9fa49229/f9913/mishka-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1f84e8f5da85b74743c4491f9fa49229/f836f/mishka-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1f84e8f5da85b74743c4491f9fa49229/2244e/mishka-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1f84e8f5da85b74743c4491f9fa49229/f9913/mishka-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mishka is my beautiful seven-year-old British Timber Dog. She was the world's naughtiest puppy and managed to destroy three sofas and hundreds of socks in her younger days, but it just made her all the more adorable.
\n\n\nMishka brings a smile to everyone
\n
Unfortunately, she’s been unwell over the past few years, but she’s still the sweetest, most affectionate girl. Mishka brings a smile to everyone and is adored by her family. When we’re out and about she manages to make friends with strangers, who always seem happy to be greeted with such a cute bundle of fluff.
\nThis last year has been tough for us all, and we’re so proud of the way Mishka has helped people to smile through even the most challenging of times.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mishka","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mishka","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e72e8a1b147d0074082f7a8ee14df3e0/f9913/mishka-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e72e8a1b147d0074082f7a8ee14df3e0/f836f/mishka-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e72e8a1b147d0074082f7a8ee14df3e0/2244e/mishka-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e72e8a1b147d0074082f7a8ee14df3e0/f9913/mishka-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mishka is a Chow Chow like no other. She seems to think the world is hers and that everyone is just here to see her. We take her to Loch Lomond in the summer and she loves it, mostly because all the tourists fuss over her and want to take her photo. She’s quite a diva, and has a tendency to decide she’s taking a nap, no matter where we are. Once, she even decided to lie down in front of a police van that was trying to get past her!
\nChow Chows are supposed to be nervous around strangers, but Mishka takes no notice of this. She loves everyone, and since we live near two primary schools she especially adores playing with the children, who always think she’s a little lion!
\n\n\nKids always think she’s a lion
\n
She is the gentlest, most loving dog I've ever had. I suffer from Fibromyalgia and she is the only one that can push me through on my bad days. She seems to sense when I'm not feeling good and looks after me. She also alerts me when my diabetic husband is about to have hypoglycemic attack.
\nWhen Mishka travels in the car she likes to ride shotgun, and we always see the other drivers and pedestrians smile at her as we drive by. She now has a little brother who absolutely adores her and looks up to her – he is always cleaning her and checking she's ok!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Missie","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-missie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4d4f5be6148f95bf5c4ed2df285e7f4a/f9913/missie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4d4f5be6148f95bf5c4ed2df285e7f4a/f836f/missie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4d4f5be6148f95bf5c4ed2df285e7f4a/2244e/missie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4d4f5be6148f95bf5c4ed2df285e7f4a/f9913/missie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I always refer to Missie as an angel sent from heaven, as she’s provided life-saving therapy for both my dad and me, throughout our mental health struggles.
\nMissie is the most loving dog I’ve ever known. She always wants to say hello to every human she meets, although she’s wary of other dogs. She’s such a family dog – wherever we are in the house she has to be there too, even the bathroom! She always likes to be touching a part of you to know you’re close. If she’s not on your lap, she’ll place a paw on your arm or her head on your feet.
\n\n\n\n\nMissie is the most loving dog I’ve ever known
\n
Her favourite toy is her tennis ball, which is affectionately called ‘Ballie’ – we’ve actually been through multiple, but shh! Her favourite activity is playing fetch with it on the beach, but she also likes to take Ballie with her to bed and cuddle up with it.
\nI am beyond thankful for our loving, healing girl Missie, and I want to give her the biggest treat she deserves.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Misto","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-misto","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/db8f6e8fb5b0ec31907afe1b09576f2f/f9913/misto-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/db8f6e8fb5b0ec31907afe1b09576f2f/f836f/misto-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/db8f6e8fb5b0ec31907afe1b09576f2f/2244e/misto-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/db8f6e8fb5b0ec31907afe1b09576f2f/f9913/misto-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Misto is such a special dog, and he appeared in my life when I was really struggling. My mum had died a few months before and my daughter had moved out, leaving me quite lonely and down.
\nI went on holiday to Sicily with my niece, staying in a remote spot and one day Misto just appeared! He took a shine to me (and me to him!) and would fine me every day, curling up beside me wherever I was. It felt like my mum had sent him to me, and so we named him Misto in her memory - her favourite greyhound was a brindle called misty, so we ‘italianised’ the name to Misto - which is fitting, as in Italian it means ‘mixed’!
\n\n\nIn Italian it means mixed
\n
When I asked hotel staff about him they said he was just a stray - they’d had quite a few pups and various Italian visitors had adopted them but he was the last one. I asked about the possibility of me adopting him, and they put me in contact with an Italian woman who takes in strays and finds homes for them - not usually as far away as England though
\nCommunicating largely through google translate, we arranged for her to take him in. She kept him for about six weeks, got all his jabs, pet passport and arranged his flight over, and he finally arrived at Heathrow in December 2016.
\nHe brings unimaginable joy to my life. I live by the sea and we both love walks and runs on the beach - which is where the photo was taken.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Misty","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-misty","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAf/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHP7X2IVwn2QwRX/8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIREgAiMgP/2gAIAQEAAQUC2u4h9sQL6F4u/SkzUQOf/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPwEf/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAgEBPwEf/8QAHRAAAgEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERAhAhMSJBcf/aAAgBAQAGPwKEYlHZykpw7L01oR//xAAbEAADAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMUFRYf/aAAgBAQABPyHC0nSGqXkJ0YiU4dCVqHCuQXUdLCwa3FRz4Po1W/T/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEM/3vP/EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8Qamv/xAAXEQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABAR/9oACAECAQE/EBuRn//EABsQAQEAAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExQWGR/9oACAEBAAE/EHQlbB7cLOCqtv5gtZvi5B5ueHfmPXNE1Roh64IQAZyTIs0jmFgizSqnTNIiKqb1z//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9a8b3b474b11274f5916054afd495aa0/f9913/misty-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a8b3b474b11274f5916054afd495aa0/f836f/misty-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9a8b3b474b11274f5916054afd495aa0/2244e/misty-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9a8b3b474b11274f5916054afd495aa0/f9913/misty-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I know it sounds so cliché but my dog Misty really is one in a million. She is so smart and intelligent. Sometimes I think she’s human! I have two young children at home and needed to find something to mentally and physically challenge her, so we took up trick training.
\nWe had no previous experience but by the time she was 11 months old, she’d already achieved her novice, intermediate, advanced and expert trick dog titles. She knows more tricks than I can count! She’s also got her silver good citizen award and is working towards her gold.
\n\n\nMisty stares straight into your soul
\n
She’s such a brilliant family dog. She always knows when I’m down and will nuzzle her face into me to cheer me up. My children were arguing the other day over a toy and she jumped on the sofa, picked up the toy and brought it to me.
\nI couldn’t imagine my life without her. She brings everyone so much happiness. I know dogs don’t like direct eye contact but Misty stares straight into your soul! She has such mesmerising eyes.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mollie","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-mollie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/544cfaee10e90cb4a88d86b504c27aed/f9913/mollie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/544cfaee10e90cb4a88d86b504c27aed/f836f/mollie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/544cfaee10e90cb4a88d86b504c27aed/2244e/mollie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/544cfaee10e90cb4a88d86b504c27aed/f9913/mollie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Mollie came to us three years ago as a foster dog and I fell in love with her immediately.
\n\n\n\n\nThere’s never a bad day with Mollie
\n
She’s blind and epileptic, but this has never stopped her from loving life. She makes every day brighter and has even helped my other foster dogs recover from trauma that they’ve suffered – helping them to realise that life is for living without worries!
\nYou can never have a bad day when you've got a Mollie to snuggle up to.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Molly","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-molly","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3e98aa644af921106495749c948c1776/f9913/mollynew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3e98aa644af921106495749c948c1776/f836f/mollynew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3e98aa644af921106495749c948c1776/2244e/mollynew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3e98aa644af921106495749c948c1776/f9913/mollynew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Both my husband and I retired and decided we would get our longed-for fur baby now that we had time. Molly is an absolute joy. She loves everyone. Her best times are when any of our 13 grandchildren are around. She is in heaven playing games and giving lots of cuddles.
\n\n\nShe is in heaven playing games and giving lots of cuddles
\n
She is so loving and generates happiness! She loves being outdoors and greets everyone and everything with gusto. Her favourite outdoor time is chasing her ball. She always gets attention because she is so friendly.
\nMany people say she cheers them up as she so obviously loves life and loves being cuddled. She is very mischievous and funny and always keeps us on our toes. I never thought having a dog would be this rewarding.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Molly","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-molly-carole","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEDBQIE/8QAFwEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABm7I0ed+dQzZJLwE//8QAHBAAAgEFAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxESEyIx/9oACAEBAAEFAqM+Zz5zQ4u9THWXH6z/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAaEAACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEAACESFR/9oACAEBAAY/AtwhVtCRx5X/xAAcEAADAAMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMVFBYXH/2gAIAQEAAT8hW/FHBYFPTG1Mq5XBKLensq4Jp9MmbLIuj//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQdCfD/8QAGBEAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEREEH/2gAIAQMBAT8Qi6Qef//EABgRAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABERAh/9oACAECAQE/EK+Qos//xAAdEAEAAwACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhYXExQVGR/9oACAEBAAE/ELQL4L/Isg6eXL6mE4fCXkCKOWQ1gah8tZUA6IQUtYT0xtRVC3qEPE//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/bcda7d9f8b4c98f0e440b6fd7dfb0dcd/f9913/molly-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bcda7d9f8b4c98f0e440b6fd7dfb0dcd/f836f/molly-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/bcda7d9f8b4c98f0e440b6fd7dfb0dcd/2244e/molly-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/bcda7d9f8b4c98f0e440b6fd7dfb0dcd/f9913/molly-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Molly is a beautiful Pembroke Corgi, and my best friend. I’m 80 years old and live alone. Without Molly, I think I’d really struggle. She always sticks close and never leaves me alone – I even have to leave the bathroom dooropen when I shower so she can make sure I’m ok!
\n\n\nShe gives me so much love and comfort
\n
She gives me so much love and comfort, so I’m never lonely. I think she understands me when I talk to her. When we’re out walking, she greets everyone and expects them to give her a stroke, even if they’re a total stranger. Having Molly has certainly helped me make some new friends.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Molly","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Family"],"slug":"meet-molly-dona","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ee78b7784f240df8ea4ee82f4a64dab0/f9913/molly-dona-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ee78b7784f240df8ea4ee82f4a64dab0/f836f/molly-dona-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/ee78b7784f240df8ea4ee82f4a64dab0/2244e/molly-dona-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/ee78b7784f240df8ea4ee82f4a64dab0/f9913/molly-dona-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My little Molly is my shadow. She follows me everywhere and likes to snuggle in on the sofa. I love walking and would walk alone as none of my family would come, but now Molly comes with me.
\nWe go for a nine- or 10-mile walk around late morning and it's great having her by my side. I now know so many more people because of her. Before it would be a ‘hello’ in passing, but now we stop for chats. It’s great for my mental health as well, as I suffer from bad anxiety.
\n\n\n\n\nI now know so many more people because of her
\n
Molly would do anything for food, and she’s absolutely ruled by her stomach. She knows when it’s time for meals and thumps her food bowl with her paw, until she gets what she wants.
\nWhen we got her, she was a very nervous little pup, and being attacked twice by other dogs hasn't helped. But she is so much better, even though she’s still a work in progress. Molly is the baby of the family, and we all love her and her little traits.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Molly","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-molly-nicola","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c0707f0b883d358369b22f0a27b52fe6/f9913/molly-nicola-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c0707f0b883d358369b22f0a27b52fe6/f836f/molly-nicola-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c0707f0b883d358369b22f0a27b52fe6/2244e/molly-nicola-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c0707f0b883d358369b22f0a27b52fe6/f9913/molly-nicola-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Molly came into our life a year ago and changed it forever. My husband and I had been volunteering at a lovely dog rescue charity called SHAK, where Molly was a favourite. She had been living there for three years and had already had four homes before she came to us.
\nShe is a Husky Akita cross who suffers from separation anxiety alongside reactivity to other dogs, so she isn’t the most easygoing dog in the world. That doesn’t stop her from being really caring and affectionate though, and she absolutely adores people.
\n\n\nShe absolutely adores people
\n
When she first came home, she found it quite difficult to adjust. My husband had to sleep downstairs with her every night because she was so anxious. But now, a year later, she is so much better. She still has her anxieties, but that’s what makes her who she is and we wouldn’t change her for the world.
\nMolly comes with us whenever we volunteer at SHAK to visit all of her old friends and spread some hope. We couldn’t love her anymore.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Molly and Poppy","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-molly-poppy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9633197c306bb8f837298eac3618a586/f9913/molly-poppy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9633197c306bb8f837298eac3618a586/f836f/molly-poppy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9633197c306bb8f837298eac3618a586/2244e/molly-poppy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9633197c306bb8f837298eac3618a586/f9913/molly-poppy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have two border collie dogs: Poppy (who is 11years old) and Molly (8 months). Molly was a lockdown rescue pup when her owners bought her then decided not to have her! I am a Chaplain in a school and take both dogs in with me every day.
\n\n\nPoppy and Molly deserve a treat!
\n
They are great pastoral assistants! Poppy is a big teddy bear who loves to be hugged, Molly is a mischief and allows some of our ‘naughtier’ children to relate to her! We’ve worked all the way through the lockdown and Poppy and Molly deserve a treat!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Monkey","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-monkey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAv/EABcBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAclqoeV2J3zFr2A//8QAGhAAAwEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECEQMSIf/aAAgBAQABBQLMITo0SVimvDjW20r+nOFXP//EABcRAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8BC5Of/8QAFxEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQEf/aAAgBAgEBPwFiK//EAB8QAAEDAwUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAhEQIdESMVFxgf/aAAgBAQAGPwLKxQw7xFwGl21LWHCiSOkCV//EABoQAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESFBUWH/2gAIAQEAAT8hdg1+WXgevRbq4mErQ6FWbj7oo1DhYK2iAKm1o//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQE99C/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAhEf/aAAgBAwEBPxAOLIi//8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQIXH/2gAIAQIBAT8Q0Qu4/8QAHRABAQACAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBUYGx0f/aAAgBAQABPxBmESPIwSKC7p5bnn9xa0qtVyWBlnb3R+TOaElpr0PfzHNyEEb+YB3BDEecYbC01bd9rcs6sUZ3n//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e215c2aaa903f24b9ef362be133a2a00/f9913/monkey-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e215c2aaa903f24b9ef362be133a2a00/f836f/monkey-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e215c2aaa903f24b9ef362be133a2a00/2244e/monkey-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e215c2aaa903f24b9ef362be133a2a00/f9913/monkey-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Named after his love for climbing trees, Monkey enriches my life as well as the lives of many others.
\n\n\n\n\nThe change he makes to my life is remarkable
\n
We volunteer with Therapy Dogs Nationwide where he brings joy to people in a dementia home, school and prison – all of which are places where the comfort of a dog can brighten difficult days.
\nThe change he makes to my own life is remarkable, too. He loves agility, so we compete in shows. I’m a pensioner but it provides me with a great social life as well as a reason to stay fit and active!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Monty","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-monty","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/876438e9a69e6f21ab9a3915241c4d71/f9913/monty-emily-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/876438e9a69e6f21ab9a3915241c4d71/f836f/monty-emily-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/876438e9a69e6f21ab9a3915241c4d71/2244e/monty-emily-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/876438e9a69e6f21ab9a3915241c4d71/f9913/monty-emily-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We’ve had Monty the Springer Spaniel for 2.5 years. We’ve always had dogs as children and felt our home wasn’t complete without one of our own.
\nAs a pup, he was a bit of a terror, but he certainly kept us entertained as we went into lockdown. He was such a legend whilst we completed the extension on our home. He took having his house turned upside down and living in a building site all in his stride.
\n\n\nHe always knows when I’ve had bad days
\n
I work for the ambulance service, and he always knows when I’ve had bad days. His usual bumpiness settles, and he’ll allow me to cuddle into him and cry if needed. But he’ll never let me wallow in sadness for too long – he’ll always do something silly to make me laugh. Our long walks also help clear my head.
\nThree months ago, we brought home our baby girl. We were slightly dubious of how Monty would react to no longer being the centre of attention, but he has stepped up to being the best big brother. He is protective of the baby and will always look at me for reassurance if someone else is holding her. If she cries, he is always the first to her side to check she is okay. Monty truly is the best dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Monty","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-monty-and-christine","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d3498b4ce1d6bf87d4ad40fbdfc5f9be/f9913/monty-christine-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d3498b4ce1d6bf87d4ad40fbdfc5f9be/f836f/monty-christine-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d3498b4ce1d6bf87d4ad40fbdfc5f9be/2244e/monty-christine-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d3498b4ce1d6bf87d4ad40fbdfc5f9be/f9913/monty-christine-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I first fell in love with Monty when I saw his photo on a Labrador rescue site. By the time I had registered with them, he had been taken. To my amazement, he was back two weeks later as the lady that had taken him couldn’t cope. The following day I was off to collect him.
\nI took him to a field to do recall training and soon learned that he loves water! He sniffed out that there was water nearby and took off. The lead went through my hands like butter. He went swimming in the lake with all the ducks, and I ended up in the hospital with second-degree burns. He’s a typical teenager but I still love him!
\n\n\nHe’s a typical teenager but I still love him
\n
We couldn’t go past any stream, river or canal as he would want to be in it – and usually was. So, I took him to the local hydro pool for dogs. He loves it and now goes once a month. He cannot wait to be in the pool.
\nHe is a retriever by name and by nature. If it’s on the floor, he will bring it to you, whether you want it or not. If he’s bored, he will fetch you anything he can find, and then run around the living room with it.
\nHe is also a Pets As Therapy (PAT) dog, so he visits our local hospital, as well as one in Leeds. They all love him, have his photo on the walls, and know when he will be coming to their ward. We walk into our local hospital and everyone seems to know him. You can be walking down a corridor and hear someone say “Look, Monty is coming”.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Monty","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-monty-tracy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b7f211f6551a80ad285f6f98386cfce9/f9913/monty-tracy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b7f211f6551a80ad285f6f98386cfce9/f836f/monty-tracy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b7f211f6551a80ad285f6f98386cfce9/2244e/monty-tracy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b7f211f6551a80ad285f6f98386cfce9/f9913/monty-tracy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Monty just before lockdown this year, after years of talking about having a dog. He was seven months old and a bit of a teenager, but he has changed and enhanced our lives for the better.
\nHe is the sweetest, gentlest dog who has what I firmly believe is a genuine sense of humour. He can tell when I am getting stressed while working from home and will hide his toys under a table or chair and invite me down onto the floor to retrieve them for him. Once I’m there, he’ll happily chew my hair and lick my ears and squirm around to show how pleased he is. I give him back his toy, with a big cuddle and go back to work. Five minutes later the toy is miraculously back in an inaccessible place.
\n\n\nHe has even won over our two cats
\n
He has the biggest, best doggy smile (like most Golden Retrievers) and his general exuberance and love for life is infectious. He has even won over our two cats – who were less than impressed that I had brought a big, hairy stranger into their lives!
\nWe recently had a garden redo and the builder made it clear he didn’t like dogs, so we cordoned off the bit of the garden that he was working in. Monty sat politely in a garden chair watching everything and accepting an occasional pat. By the end of the three weeks, the builder was greeting him enthusiastically and stopping by for a proper pet. They are now firm friends – even when Monty was accidentally let into the wrong part of the garden and ended up belly-deep in the freshly poured concrete footings for the wall!
\nMonty is the heart and soul of my life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Morgan","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-morgan","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAQX/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgD/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAcO+ompWl5Jnzwn/xAAdEAACAQUBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMABBESIhMh/9oACAEBAAEFAvpq5LR1EZmSy5XJkdW5jOq59Rsa/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD/2gAIAQMBAT8BYz//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAgEBPwEhP//EAB4QAAICAAcAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECABEDEBMiUYGh/9oACAEBAAY/AlK3FK2FIl2OxGmJqHbxBHqEN5l//8QAHRABAAMAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWGRof/aAAgBAQABPyENxvmnSDezm/MxT7ckdtLpgDRZdukrsYiM0XBYw+oAcz//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEOQogf/EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8QQyEf/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEREP/aAAgBAgEBPxCC4Z//xAAcEAEBAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMUFRYXH/2gAIAQEAAT8QWRv0zDoPmBoGCg9vL1hpkXyR50mGAoJOeLMQCwWLGnyYAgsyDEAJq7x7ESopwsfWFAUl3n//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/917deca827a5c6fc8e985d701640a4ed/f9913/morgan-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/917deca827a5c6fc8e985d701640a4ed/f836f/morgan-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/917deca827a5c6fc8e985d701640a4ed/2244e/morgan-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/917deca827a5c6fc8e985d701640a4ed/f9913/morgan-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Morgan is from the local rescue centre, but I’m not sure if I rescued him or he rescued me!
\nWith just one look, we made an instant connection at the centre, which was only one month after I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Since then, he’s faithfully been by my side.
\nEach morning, he nudges me with his nose when it’s time for me to get up, waiting patiently while I struggle to get moving due to stiffness and pain. He carries my socks downstairs from the bedroom and helps me load the washing machine, keeping watch as I load it and spinning round once the task is complete.
\n\n\n\n\nThank you for being my special friend
\n
He loves the pop-up toaster and yelps with excitement to let me know when the toast is ready, but his favourite part of the day is his walk, which he encourages me to do regularly. I feel so much better after seeing him run so freely with his friend Jessie. He brings me great joy.
\nFinally, after his tea and when it’s time for bed, he pushes the recliner chair footrest in for me and off we go to bed. He curls up next to me making me feel contented and safe.
\nThank you, Morgan, for being you and for being my special friend.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mylo","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-mylo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/798a5f8d7c50300b72738afbdc503237/f9913/mylo-liam-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/798a5f8d7c50300b72738afbdc503237/f836f/mylo-liam-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/798a5f8d7c50300b72738afbdc503237/2244e/mylo-liam-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/798a5f8d7c50300b72738afbdc503237/f9913/mylo-liam-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I rescued Mylo from Spain when he was a pup. Ever since the first day he moved over, he’s never not had a smile on his face. He’s such a positive influence in my life, as his happiness takes away all the negativity.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s such a positive influence in my life
\n
He has such a funny habit when I have a cup of tea. He sits there, waiting to make sure he gets a bit at the end. And if I tell him ‘no’, oh the back chat I get!
\nMylo also has lots of love to give, as I rescued another dog called Oscar, and Mylo takes care of him like a brother.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nala","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nala","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b26974cc841e0e9dd1fd6cc8b2341c34/f9913/nala-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b26974cc841e0e9dd1fd6cc8b2341c34/f836f/nala-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b26974cc841e0e9dd1fd6cc8b2341c34/2244e/nala-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b26974cc841e0e9dd1fd6cc8b2341c34/f9913/nala-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Nala is a Pomeranian and Bischon Cross. She may be an adult now, but she still acts like a young puppy – she always has boundless energy and is super positive no matter what life throws at her. We walk her every day because she likes to be active, and usually we cover around 30 miles!
\n\n\nNala has made my heart full
\n
Having Nala has made my heart full. Not only does she keep me active, but I’m sure that her companionship has helped to improve my mental wellbeing. Looking after her does mean my days are very busy, but I wouldn’t change that for the world. It’s an honour to be her owner, and I’ll do anything I can to keep her healthy and happy, just as she does for me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ned","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-ned","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ee4dbd46dbc1f93a78282aa49d544a44/f9913/ned-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ee4dbd46dbc1f93a78282aa49d544a44/f836f/ned-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ee4dbd46dbc1f93a78282aa49d544a44/2244e/ned-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ee4dbd46dbc1f93a78282aa49d544a44/f9913/ned-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"This is Ned, our English springer spaniel. He lost his sight in one eye shortly after he was born due to a detached retina, but it doesn’t stop him from being a brilliant working dog, a great big brother to 18-month-old Flo the springer, and the best companion to our two children.
\n\n\n\n\nWe wouldn’t be without him
\n
Ned loves exploring new places with his partners in crime by his side. He’s a loyal, loving, high energy bundle of fun. We wouldn’t be without him!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nikka","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nikka","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d77555451ac237e5a9e40909e875b9d4/f9913/nikka-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d77555451ac237e5a9e40909e875b9d4/f836f/nikka-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d77555451ac237e5a9e40909e875b9d4/2244e/nikka-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d77555451ac237e5a9e40909e875b9d4/f9913/nikka-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Nikka is a 10-year-old yellow Labrador. We’ve had her in our family for three years, as her last owner passed away. She’s since developed cataracts and she’s now completely blind. My other Labrador, Bentley, also 10, is very protective of her, and they are great friends.
\nDespite her lack of sight, Nikka is so fearless. She has marvellous senses and is ball crazy. She listens for the bounce and then sets off to find it. Nothing stops her. If you let her off the lead, she sets off with no hesitation.
\nWe have set words like ‘up’ for a step or pavement and ‘tree’. She has bad arthritis in her front paws, and they must be painful, but she never shows it.
\nNikka knows that I’ll always be there for her, and she follows me everywhere. People are amazed at her resilience. She’s such a happy girl, with her tail always wagging. Both Nikka and Bentley are my world, but Nikka is my brave, loving girl.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nemo","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nemo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/bdf9ae371240a5b7b2e54044db79286d/f9913/nemo-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bdf9ae371240a5b7b2e54044db79286d/f836f/nemo-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/bdf9ae371240a5b7b2e54044db79286d/2244e/nemo-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/bdf9ae371240a5b7b2e54044db79286d/f9913/nemo-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nPeople are amazed at her resilience
\n
Nemo is the light and heart of our family. He hasn't had it easy as he was a rescue dog. He was so untrusting and agitated when he came home, but now he's so trusting, loving and playful.
\nIt's very hard to think of a time when we hadn't got Nemo. He's still like a puppy – he greets us every time we leave him even if it’s for one minute. He's also a fantastic guard dog as whenever anyone rings the doorbell they back off. It’s quite funny really seeing a big burly delivery man running to the top of the driveway!
\n\n\nIt's very hard to think of a time when we hadn't got Nemo
\n
I'm disabled myself and Nemo is at my side when I really need him. His instincts are spot on. My heart bleeds for him as I think about what his life was like before. He is our rock as he makes our lives much richer and he lights up the whole house with his zoomies round the garden, his barking at the doorbell (realistically the only time he barks), the way he plays with his toys with love and hugs and the occasional tugging of the stuffing.
\nI could go on forever praising him but I think I've said enough for now. So Nemo thank you for making our lives so glorious and I hope he has a safe and restful life with us because he's certainly made a huge difference to ours.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nikka and Bentley","tags":["Adorable","Family","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nikka-bentley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3a835060f405051e8ba9be6a1d3e770d/f9913/nikka-bentley-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3a835060f405051e8ba9be6a1d3e770d/f836f/nikka-bentley-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3a835060f405051e8ba9be6a1d3e770d/2244e/nikka-bentley-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3a835060f405051e8ba9be6a1d3e770d/f9913/nikka-bentley-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Nikka is a smooth coat Labrador, cream-coloured. We have had her for 18 months, and she is a fantastic friend to Bentley who’s also 7. We got Nikka under sad circumstances as her previous owner sadly died, and to keep her in the family so the person's daughter could visit, we agreed to take her on.
\nBentley our other Labrador has arthritis and has been struggling with it for some time. He was depressed and sad, no matter what we tried to cheer him up, including all sorts of medication both herbal and vet prescription.
\n\n\nLike a missing glove, they fitted perfectly
\n
The day Nikka arrived she was a massive impact on us all. Bentley immediately wagged his tail and started to show off his toys snorting with delight. Like a missing glove, they fitted perfectly. They shared everything, slept together and played madly on pulley toys. Bentley was a new boy and Nikka settled so well.
\nOnly unfortunately in the last six months she has developed cataracts and is now virtually blind. Bentley now guides her, takes her toys, gives her lots of loving licks and will wait for her in the garden to see her back indoors as she slips on the decking.
\nSo Nikka helped Bentley but it turned and now Bentley helps Nikka – a perfect pair of loving Labradors. We are so lucky to have them and love them so much.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nim","tags":["Family","Adorable","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nim","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/17ac38fe5b3c3e32746eb5b0879078c9/f9913/nim-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/17ac38fe5b3c3e32746eb5b0879078c9/f836f/nim-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/17ac38fe5b3c3e32746eb5b0879078c9/2244e/nim-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/17ac38fe5b3c3e32746eb5b0879078c9/f9913/nim-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Nim has only been in my life for 11 months, but I met her on the day she was born. And when she tried to drink some of my gin at four weeks old, I knew that was it – we were best friends for life.
\nShe is the happiest and most trusting little spaniel. She loves a beach walk and digging holes, often barking and growling as she digs as she gets cross when the sand falls back in! She also loves an open field where she leaps like a gazelle through long grass.
\n\n\nMy life has never felt more fulfilled
\n
She adores all of the people in her life, and she likes to round everyone up and keep them together. When visiting my mum and dad (her grandparents), she won’t settle down to relax until we’re all squashed onto the same sofa. Otherwise, she spends all night swapping from seat to seat and glaring at whoever dares to sit elsewhere.
\nShe is consistently the reason I get up in the morning, and the reason I travel around the country to visit beautiful places that I think she deserves to see. I work very hard to provide the life for her that she deserves, and my life has never felt more fulfilled than it has since the day she came home.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Noden","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-noden","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a378ab94d131207734a3c575730605ff/f9913/noden-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a378ab94d131207734a3c575730605ff/f836f/noden-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a378ab94d131207734a3c575730605ff/2244e/noden-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a378ab94d131207734a3c575730605ff/f9913/noden-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our handsome boy was less than a year old when he was picked up by the animal rescue in Aya Nikalaus, Cyprus. He had a badly broken leg and horrendous eye and ear infections. His healing took some months when my daughter fostered him alongside her dogs and family.
\n\n\nHe believes every person and creature wants to be his friend – even wild boar!
\n
When they returned to the UK, we hurried to collect him, and he became my reason for getting out of bed each morning. I was suffering terrible fatigue after debilitating, but successful, treatment for an aggressive cancer. You could say he rescued me, as much as we rescued him...
\nTo see his happiness and joy with life now, you’d never know he suffered as a pup. Everything is his favourite thing. He believes every person and creature wants to be his friend – even the wild boar! He never shows any aggression, even when chased by aforementioned wild boar! He’s a shining example of mindfulness in action.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nora","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nora","dom":false,"doy":false,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/854d758813fdfc1721a30e1dcd7284db/f9913/nora-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/854d758813fdfc1721a30e1dcd7284db/f836f/nora-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/854d758813fdfc1721a30e1dcd7284db/2244e/nora-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/854d758813fdfc1721a30e1dcd7284db/f9913/nora-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Nora is the dog that saved my life. When I was 27, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of arthritis and was in constant pain. Small tasks such as putting on my socks became difficult, and had it not been for Nora, I think I would have given up.
\n\n\nBecause of my dog, I have a purpose
\n
She was always there for me, helping me through the pain and giving me a reason to carry on. Taking her on walks got me up and out in the morning. It took me almost a year to be officially diagnosed and then another year to get the right medication so that the pain was tolerable. I’ve had to give up so much since then, but Nora has remained by my side throughout it all.
\nIf I’m having a bad pain day she seems to know and will do something silly just to make me smile. On good days, we enjoy going out together and taking in the fresh air. Nora has given me back the dreams I thought I’d lost. Because of my dog, I have a purpose. With her by my side, I can take on any challenge that life throws at me. We’ll get through it together.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nova","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nova","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/005625be44d0564862fb5bd22495f813/f9913/nova-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/005625be44d0564862fb5bd22495f813/f836f/nova-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/005625be44d0564862fb5bd22495f813/2244e/nova-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/005625be44d0564862fb5bd22495f813/f9913/nova-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Nova came into my life at a moment when I really needed something to give me a boost – and she sure did that! Her energy, playfulness and the love she gives my partner and I is second to none.
\n\n\nWhen she smiles and her tongue hangs out
\n
She loves to go to the park so much that, even just a mention of it and she does a little hop and a skip, then runs off in search of her lead! In the evenings she does her ‘zoomies’, where she runs around in circles then jumps up onto the sofa and flips all the cushions off, which really makes us giggle.
\nMy favourite thing about her is when she smiles and her tongue hangs out of the side of her mouth. I’ve yet to meet someone who isn’t taken in by Nova’s charms. Affectionate, caring, lovable and at times cheeky, she’s the best companion we could ever have and we absolutely adore her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Nymeria","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-nymeria","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f09199355ba751764c40e2dca3ef73ec/f9913/nymeria-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f09199355ba751764c40e2dca3ef73ec/f836f/nymeria-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f09199355ba751764c40e2dca3ef73ec/2244e/nymeria-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f09199355ba751764c40e2dca3ef73ec/f9913/nymeria-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I’ve had Nym since she was just a puppy, and since then she has remained closely by my side. When she was younger, I taught her lots of tricks such as rolling, walking on her hind legs and pirouetting. She has got me through many tough times with her calm demeanour and cosy cuddles.
\n\n\nShe very quickly grasped how to live with her blindness
\n
In early 2020, Nym went suddenly and completely blind. She started running into things and became much more nervous. Fortunately, she’s a sweet and trusting dog, so she very quickly grasped how to live with her blindness, learning new words such as ‘careful’ and ‘step’. Now she’s used to navigating using her sense of smell and hearing and has even memorised the layout of the house as well as our regular walking routes, so she can get around with confidence.
\nI love my dog just as much now as the day I got her. I wouldn't change her for the world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Norman","tags":["Funny","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-norman","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMBBAX/xAAXAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgMB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGVLzMk6YTXySagm3//xAAcEAACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADBBIRFCL/2gAIAQEAAQUCfLd5tYJ2XjVrTXT7J5jIIqBTuZ//xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREQ/9oACAEDAQE/AYVb/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEgAQ/9oACAECAQE/AVLf/8QAHxAAAQMDBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIQIDcRASMTOh/9oACAEBAAY/AuduCLqwdngrUpkVHIoGkjT/xAAcEAEAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhYTFBUXH/2gAIAQEAAT8hw4B5FVuoukmlLR9/KTYR11LXCGycgoebYVbjCP8A/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABA7/wB8/8QAGREAAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERECHB/9oACAEDAQE/EIIa4xY//8QAGhEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIRAx8P/aAAgBAgEBPxBLtEegdUsf/8QAHhABAQACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFRcZFBYdH/2gAIAQEAAT8QSu2gN+85OIWH3F6wMl/K/MWiUjyrq5YBgT5omzEl6ca+dGSFhxSxwU4nhwxyes//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/be83af1d6c6b6e6b6850f71a4b4f156c/f9913/normannew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/be83af1d6c6b6e6b6850f71a4b4f156c/f836f/normannew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/be83af1d6c6b6e6b6850f71a4b4f156c/2244e/normannew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/be83af1d6c6b6e6b6850f71a4b4f156c/f9913/normannew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"As a pup, Norman was a bit of an escapologist. He managed to escape out of the house and run off round the corner. He got into a garden and went in through an open back door. He was discovered by the homeowner when he heard a noise, turned around and found Norman sitting watching tv with him and his family!
\n\n\nNorman was a bit of an escapologist
\n
Another time, he managed to squeeze under our garden fence and make his way into our neighbour’s house… where he was eventually found in her upstairs bedroom.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Oakley and Rowan","tags":["Funny","Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-oakley-rowan","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/af79a39b0bbd72c5ce7f40587e2c714b/f9913/oakley-rowan-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/af79a39b0bbd72c5ce7f40587e2c714b/f836f/oakley-rowan-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/af79a39b0bbd72c5ce7f40587e2c714b/2244e/oakley-rowan-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/af79a39b0bbd72c5ce7f40587e2c714b/f9913/oakley-rowan-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Husband lost his memory in an accident in 2011. You only realise how important memories are when someone you love doesn’t have them anymore, so now we put a lot of effort into creating lasting memories for our sons. As part of that mission, we got our dog Oakley in 2016. He is themost loyal and intelligent boy, and he even alerts me when my husband ishaving seizures, though he isn’t trained to do so. I know that if Nick is unwell while out walking, Oakley will look after him for me until I find them.
\n\n\nThey both have very different personalities
\n
When we found out his sister was having puppies, we jumped at the chance to offer one of them a home. Rowan joined us last year, and she’s a bundle of fun and mischief. Although technically his uncle, Oakley has become a fantastic big brother to her. They both have very different personalities, but one thing they share is how loving they are to us and each other. I don’t know how we ever managed without them.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Oreo","tags":["Senior","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-oreo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fc68fd9ef4770dedecc68c06775f1535/f9913/oreo-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc68fd9ef4770dedecc68c06775f1535/f836f/oreo-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fc68fd9ef4770dedecc68c06775f1535/2244e/oreo-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fc68fd9ef4770dedecc68c06775f1535/f9913/oreo-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Oreo is an absolute pleasure to share our lives with. She recently lost her best friend Willow, a Bernese Mountain Dog, and it has taken her a good six months to get back to being her usual happy self.
\n\n\n\n\nLove certainly is a wet nose, slobbery kisses and a wagging tail
\n
She’s my daughter’s best friend and they are inseparable. The bond between them is beautiful and we struggle to imagine what life will be like without her. We know that as a giant breed she’s now an old lady, but the joy she brings us all is beyond words.
\nWe feel truly honoured to have Oreo in our lives and we treasure every day we spend with her. Love certainly is a wet nose, slobbery kisses and a wagging tail.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Orrin","tags":["Support Dogs","Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-orrin","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5fbd2d5ae69780c6676cf242b90c7da3/f9913/orrin-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5fbd2d5ae69780c6676cf242b90c7da3/f836f/orrin-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5fbd2d5ae69780c6676cf242b90c7da3/2244e/orrin-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5fbd2d5ae69780c6676cf242b90c7da3/f9913/orrin-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Orrin is my rock. I suffer from panic attacks and whenever I feel one coming on, he’s always there to ground me until I have it under control. He’s also a blood donor and has saved many lives over the years. My dog is so compassionate, he’ll care for anyone who needs him.
\nOne night, we were called to the vets as they needed blood urgently. When we arrived they were very busy, so we sat quietly in a corner and waited. We saw a distressed lady come in with her ill dog. The nurses all rushed to the dog and left the lady alone, so Orrin went up to her and quietly put his head in her lap until she calmed down a little. He came back over to me eventually, but I could tell he was keeping his eye on her the whole time.
\n\n\nHe’ll care for anyone who needs him
\n
A little while later, the same thing happened with someone else and again, Orrin made it his mission to make sure they were ok. Everyone in the vets soon started to realise what he was doing and some of the staff even had tears in their eyes.
\nAfter he gave blood, he refused to leave until we’d checked on the two people he’d helped. Orrin truly is my very special boy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Oscar","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-oscar","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3d85bcf474e5489ca8b7d116c76a769e/f9913/oscar-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3d85bcf474e5489ca8b7d116c76a769e/f836f/oscar-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3d85bcf474e5489ca8b7d116c76a769e/2244e/oscar-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3d85bcf474e5489ca8b7d116c76a769e/f9913/oscar-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Five years ago, I was the victim of an armed robbery attack at my workplace. I was left badly shaken and very frightened. As soon as I was brought home from the police station, Oscar came to me and sat with me, and when I went to change from my uniform he followed me closely.
\n\n\nHe’d stay close by my side
\n
Not long after the incident, my dad had to go and visit my mum in hospital, which meant leaving me home alone. Oscar lay beside me the couch for the entire time dad was away. And, for the whole week I was off work Oscar followed me around the house, sitting in the bathroom doorway and sleeping right beside me every night. Even when we were out on a walk, he’d stay close by my side if someone came towards us.
\nThroughout the months it took me to recover Oscar was there – and for that I’ll be forever grateful.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Obi","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-obi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEFAgME/8QAFwEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAAByjfJWOtyuvsikCN//8QAHRAAAgICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxESBCEiI//aAAgBAQABBQK0FVUeciU2bFxg9Gcc/a5juZ//xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQEf/aAAgBAwEBPwFQRl//xAAZEQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQMQETH/2gAIAQIBAT8Bcj6aOv/EAB8QAAICAAcBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhEQEiExUWFxkf/aAAgBAQAGPwK4jc6vizWhr52ZmbkTzD//xAAbEAADAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMVFBcf/aAAgBAQABPyGAFufBieKv0LZ2dFLMesO4Pg2zEQdO4p6oRXR//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDHLzz/xAAYEQEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARMf/aAAgBAwEBPxA5pIBHMf/EABkRAAMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABERAhMf/aAAgBAgEBPxC3aDp1neP/xAAdEAEAAwACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFRgaHh/9oACAEBAAE/ELQlhXusPsZigiHonUvOhXzuFcI5fDvJkrS54efyPKhikM+S71wVfuJVUMAcR4aFnWT/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/76480125f27114e7990be3267f16c168/9a128/obi-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/76480125f27114e7990be3267f16c168/f836f/obi-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/76480125f27114e7990be3267f16c168/2244e/obi-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/76480125f27114e7990be3267f16c168/9a128/obi-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"I have a chronic illness, so I suffer daily with chronic pain and fatigue. For a long time, I was depressed and really not enjoying life. But then I got Obi...
\nHe’s the absolute light of my life. My rock. My therapist. My best friend. I couldn't be without him. I knew getting a crazy Border Collie was going to be a challenge alongside living with a chronic illness, but he's been the best decision I've ever made. He gives me purpose. He gives me a reason to get out of bed on a morning. The minute I see his little face waiting for me downstairs, I feel a little less tired and a little less sore.
\n\n\nHe gives me a reason to get out of bed on a morning
\n
He's helped me meet so many lovely people in the village where we live, some who have become great friends. I love our long walks through the countryside, our trips to the beach (followed by ice cream, of course) and snuggling on the sofa when the weather isn't so great.
\nI love his craziness, his will to live, the way he shakes his butt when he gets scratches. His long tongue that he can't keep in his mouth, his cheeky smile, his one-up one-down ears, his beautiful eyes. His 'taps' when you're eating something that he really wants, the way he bounces up and down waiting for me to throw his ball, his wrestling sessions with his best friend Yoshi, his obsession with water and mud (usually the two mixed together), the way he sits and laps up the attention when the village kids come to give him cuddles. I love all of this and more.
\nHe's my gentle giant. Always along for the ride – the highs and the lows. He makes me laugh, brings me joy, teaches me how to live freely and love unconditionally. I don't own him, he owns me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Oscar and Albie","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-oscar-albie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4c9a8f1a2e8c75f2c91926b81471fa47/f9913/oscar-albie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4c9a8f1a2e8c75f2c91926b81471fa47/f836f/oscar-albie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4c9a8f1a2e8c75f2c91926b81471fa47/2244e/oscar-albie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4c9a8f1a2e8c75f2c91926b81471fa47/f9913/oscar-albie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I’m very lucky to have two wonderful, funny and cuddly Cockapoos called Oscar and Albie, who are my fur babies. My youngest, Albie, is a rescue who was sadly abused as a puppy and pushed from pillar to post with three different owners.
\nHe came to me at only 18 months old, after he was literally hours from being put to sleep by his previous owners, who could no longer handle him. He had a lot of behavioural issues, which has taken a lot of strength and tenacity, but we’ve gradually worked on them together!
\n\n\n\n\nThey absolutely adore each other
\n
Albie and his best friend Oscar, who’s eight, absolutely adore each other. Oscar has been Albie’s role model and inspiration to learn to be a good doggy, which I am so grateful for. They give me so much joy, from cuddles in bed to days on the beach, swimming in the sea with them.
\nThey are always there for me no matter what I’m going through. They always put a smile on my face, and I couldn’t imagine my life without them.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Oscar","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-oscar","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e32fbcd3374a36d9789f11383a876b2d/f9913/oscar-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e32fbcd3374a36d9789f11383a876b2d/f836f/oscar-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e32fbcd3374a36d9789f11383a876b2d/2244e/oscar-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e32fbcd3374a36d9789f11383a876b2d/f9913/oscar-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Oscar is fabulous. He's looks after my son, Jason, who has autism. When he knows Jason is unhappy, he’ll go and sit next to him until he cheers up.
\n\n\nUntil he cheers up
\n
My dog has such a fun personality and can be very cheeky. He enjoys having a sneaky nibble of the newspaper when he thinks no one is looking! He’s also a total water baby, and so his favourite pastime is undoubtedly swimming.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Oslo","tags":["Puppy","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-oslo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/51c26078de42a4a62af07607f14c08ec/f9913/oslo-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/51c26078de42a4a62af07607f14c08ec/f836f/oslo-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/51c26078de42a4a62af07607f14c08ec/2244e/oslo-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/51c26078de42a4a62af07607f14c08ec/f9913/oslo-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"After the passing of our dearly loved family dog during lockdown, our household was deeply missing a four-legged companion, and all the fun and chaotic energy they bring. In May 2022, we decided that we were ready to bring a new pup into our lives. Little did we know that, less than 48 hours later, we’d be bringing a tiny little eight-week-old Rottsky pup called Oslo home with us.
\n\n\nWe all look forward to a long, adventure-filled life with him!
\n
Oslo has bought so much joy to our family in the 4½ months he’s been with us. He’s goofy, mischievous, playful and clever. He will huff and puff when you move him from his fave spot on the sofa, and then pretend to ignore you when you try and make up for it. He has the sweetest nature and so much energy. He loves to join us on every trip, whether it’s to a pub, a castle, a coffee shop or the woods.
\nOslo is always by our sides. He loves everyone and everything, from adults and children to dogs and horses. He always wants to say hello. He really has been the missing piece in our family, and we all look forward to a long, adventure-filled life with him!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Otis","tags":["Class of 19/23","Family","Support Dogs","Adult"],"slug":"meet-otis","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/536d123a5f3bf20d72fbcfd1c12e1106/f9913/otis-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/536d123a5f3bf20d72fbcfd1c12e1106/f836f/otis-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/536d123a5f3bf20d72fbcfd1c12e1106/2244e/otis-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/536d123a5f3bf20d72fbcfd1c12e1106/f9913/otis-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We bought our cockapoo, Otis, home in October 2020. My wife and I both work in hospitals – she’s a doctor and I’m a hospital manager. Our jobs are stressful, and they’ve been made even more stressful by COVID, but every single day Otis has made us laugh, filled our house with love and kept us entertained with his funny little personality.
\n\n\nWe simply can’t imagine our life without him
\n
His favourite place to be is up on our shoulders – he would spend all day up there if he could. We think perhaps he is a cockatoo not a cockapoo.
\nHe is such a gorgeous boy, he has us wrapped around his little paw and we simply can’t imagine our life without him. He loves everyone and is never happier than when there is a house full of people to give him fuss and attention.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Otto","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-otto","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6b28bff3db0e0578336c37e2df6d52c4/f9913/otto-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6b28bff3db0e0578336c37e2df6d52c4/f836f/otto-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6b28bff3db0e0578336c37e2df6d52c4/2244e/otto-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6b28bff3db0e0578336c37e2df6d52c4/f9913/otto-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Otto when I was waiting for an operation on my eye. He gave me a reason to get up every morning. He was 10 weeks old and needed an urgent new home due to flooding and so we went and got him.
\n\n\nHe is the best friend I could ask for
\n
He is the best friend I could ask for. He hasn’t had the best start in life – bad breeding meant he was underweight, and we found out a few months ago that he has severe hip dysplasia and needed both his hips replacing. He had his first operation in August at 11 months old and next week will be going for his other hip replacement surgery.
\nDespite all of that he has been as good as gold and kept me going. I’m at high risk of Covid so have had to stay home since March and again he made it all bearable. He’s just lovely and after saving for his operations I would love to give him a treat.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Otty","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-otty","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCAQMF/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgAB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHfVdMNwlY/QnI8CX//xAAaEAADAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMAMhMh/9oACAEBAAEFAq18tK5cl/rIj5wqTGHdO2QE/wD/xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEiD/2gAIAQMBAT8BYx//xAAZEQABBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARASIUH/2gAIAQIBAT8BihRjf//EABwQAQABBQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAhARQWEDEv/aAAgBAQAGPwIAyxKjHbPYeZq1M+t5t//EAB0QAQACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQXFRYYH/2gAIAQEAAT8hJ2g5PEo5uAYhlAvqGg+jbC5bTS8xY1XqNS4G4LsXRFrrqf/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQw89C/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERMf/aAAgBAwEBPxBUrKPRYf/EABgRAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESFx/9oACAECAQE/EMojgTFP/8QAHxABAAIDAAEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFRYUFxgbHR/9oACAEBAAE/EA/AVbH7GAk0xlxe1mM0Dun3HHLzdh77xeoUAQjPb5Jg1RwYI710R6pkv5lCxbvipRlbu2/M/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f57b48ef7820b6b031ee6a92cb07a021/f9913/otty-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f57b48ef7820b6b031ee6a92cb07a021/f836f/otty-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f57b48ef7820b6b031ee6a92cb07a021/2244e/otty-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f57b48ef7820b6b031ee6a92cb07a021/f9913/otty-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Otty is nicknamed ‘the destructor’ because he’s just so clumsy. If he’s not knocking something over with his wagging tail, he’s slipping and sliding onthe wooden floor. He always gives me such a funny look afterwards, almost as though he finds himself as hilarious as I do!
\n\n\nHe’s just so clumsy
\n
Otty is also a stock-stealer, and our garden has become a graveyard for all of his buried treasure. He may be a big, fluffy disaster, but I wouldn’t have him any other way.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ozzie","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ozzie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d661d0ace6be28561d0c2b83850ea1e5/f9913/ozzie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d661d0ace6be28561d0c2b83850ea1e5/f836f/ozzie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d661d0ace6be28561d0c2b83850ea1e5/2244e/ozzie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d661d0ace6be28561d0c2b83850ea1e5/f9913/ozzie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have struggled with my mental health for as long as I can remember, and nothing has done more for me than Ozzie. From the minute I wake up until the moment I fall asleep, he brings me so much joy.
\nOz is a retired racing Greyhound and, after a lot of training, he's now got great recall and is allowed off lead. Nothing makes me happier than seeing his smiling face as he goes hurtling past me at 40mph with his helicopter tail spinning at full force.
\nEvery morning I wake up to him in my bed (all 100lbs of him). As soon as he hears me say ‘Good morning!’, he attacks me with kisses and throws himself into the cockroach position so I can rub his belly.
\n\n\nFrom the minute I wake up until the moment I fall asleep, he brings me so much joy
\n
He's obsessed with sunbathing, just like me, and will do it at any opportunity. Two degrees outside? As long as the sun’s, out Oz will be on his sun lounger soaking it up. Out for a walk? Who needs exercise when you can sunbathe!
\nOne of his favourite ways to show affection is by ‘nitting’, where he uses just his front teeth to nibble at me when I'm stroking him. His favourite game is ‘smacky bum’ where I tap his bum like bongos and we chase each other round in circles.
\nOzzie goes into a deep sleep about 50 times a day, usually with his mouth agape, tongue hanging out and legs twitching (presumably chasing cats in his dreams). I also suffer from endometriosis and whenever I'm having a flare up, he just knows. He sticks to me like velcro and follows me everywhere.
\nI could sit and write about him forever. He really is my best friend and has changed my life more than he'll ever know. He gives me a reason to get out of bed each day. I love Oz more than anything and would be totally lost without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ozzy","tags":["Support Dogs","Funny","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ozzy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ec930225f67f7d41b032411902a0220a/f9913/ozzy-sarah-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ec930225f67f7d41b032411902a0220a/f836f/ozzy-sarah-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ec930225f67f7d41b032411902a0220a/2244e/ozzy-sarah-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ec930225f67f7d41b032411902a0220a/f9913/ozzy-sarah-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ozzy comes wherever I go! I am a dog walker and the reason I gave up my office job was to spend more time with Ozzy. We love our job. Ozzy is the foundation of our business as all new dogs have to meet him to determine their behaviour.
\nI 100% trust Ozzy to welcome every dog he meets. All the dogs we walk know him – the young ones cling to him, the boisterous ones stay away from and the older ones hang out with him.
\nOzzy has been through so many failed relationships and house moves with me. He has been my rock. He knows when to comfort me and when to cheer me up. He will cuddle up to anyone in need.
\n\n\nHe's my best friend, work colleague and a huge part of our family
\n
He sat with my dad while he was poorly and comforted my mum when she was sad. All without any prompt. He is a fabulous judge of character. With children, he is so gentle. He knows if they are worried and will stay close but allow them to build their confidence.
\nOne of Ozzy’s party tricks is that he moonwalks out of rooms as he’s not a fan of slippery floors. We’re still unsure why walking backwards works?! Also, he can be found drinking like a horse on a hot day, submerging his whole face in the water bowl – something he learnt from his brother (my horse)!
\nHe's my best friend, work colleague and a huge part of our family. He really is the best dog ever.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ozzy","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Brave & loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ozzy-aimee","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9203688c15676ddfb85ee8a7f870ed32/f9913/ozzy-aimee-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9203688c15676ddfb85ee8a7f870ed32/f836f/ozzy-aimee-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9203688c15676ddfb85ee8a7f870ed32/2244e/ozzy-aimee-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9203688c15676ddfb85ee8a7f870ed32/f9913/ozzy-aimee-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My husky Ozzy really is my soul dog – that dog you connect with on a different level. I feel he and I were meant to be together. I rescued him when he was three in 2010. He's seen me the through the loss of four babies, the loss of my dad and several rather awful relationships.
\n\n\nI feel he and I were meant to be together
\n
His love is unwavering. I've lost count of the amount of times he's pressed his face into mine when I've cried into his fur. He's now almost 15 and has lots of lumps, arthritis and is deaf and going blind, but he still thinks he's a puppy and is absolutely giddy telling me he needs his tea or frolicking on the beach. After a car accident in 2012 and working long hours away from him and my other dogs, he inspired me to start my own dog walking business which is now into its 10th year of business.
\nOz has been into schools with me to teach young ones about how to approach dogs and has also been to lots of events as he inspired me to be a part of several husky rescues and to take on foster dogs before setting up my own business. When Oz goes it is going to leave a huge hole in my life and heart, but I'm so thankful that the best years of his life I've got to share.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ozzy Dawg","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ozzy-dawg","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3f71594d1e89cc80c265c28606965482/f9913/ozzy-dawg-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3f71594d1e89cc80c265c28606965482/f836f/ozzy-dawg-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3f71594d1e89cc80c265c28606965482/2244e/ozzy-dawg-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3f71594d1e89cc80c265c28606965482/f9913/ozzy-dawg-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ozzy Dawg is best friends with my seven-year-old son, Alfie. We’ve been puppy parents for Hounds for Heroes over the years and have looked afterthree pups so far. Ozzy Dawg has taken each one under his watchful command and taught them how to behave in the woods and park.
\n\n\nOzzy Dawg has taken each one under his watchful command
\n
He also keeps Alife safe too, looking out for him and making sure he’s ok. They have a very special bond!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ozzy","tags":["Puppy","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ozzy-victoria","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/dd979669bb77987d6a34705fffc0bb50/f9913/ozzy-victoria-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dd979669bb77987d6a34705fffc0bb50/f836f/ozzy-victoria-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/dd979669bb77987d6a34705fffc0bb50/2244e/ozzy-victoria-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/dd979669bb77987d6a34705fffc0bb50/f9913/ozzy-victoria-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ozzy was surrendered to the vet practice I worked in at 10 months old and needed to be given a second chance. I was hoping to get my first dog since moving out of my family home in summer 2023, but I agreed to take Ozzy on in August 2022 (a year earlier!) and have never looked back.
\nHe is the most intelligent (although he does very often fall off the bed in the middle of the night!), friendly and loving dog I have ever met. He loves coming with me to look after my horse every morning and evening, goes on long walks to lots of different places, and he even went stand up paddle boarding with me the first weekend I had him.
\nHis favourite place to go is the beach, he LOVES going for a swim, a long walk and then finishing with a doggy ice cream. His equal favourite place is in the bed, and at 3am every morning he creeps up from the end of the bed and cuddles up in between me and his dad underneath the duvet. I am new to the county I currently live in, so it has been great fun exploring the countryside with Oz by my side. Our little rescue pup has given us endless fun and I can’t wait for the years ahead with him.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pablo","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pablo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEBQIG/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAZKFrKZ9EhTfeYJsAr//xAAcEAACAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMEABITETP/2gAIAQEAAQUClYRAl2m0jGWYQF9PTqTlj4PEq1EA0//EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8BYmv/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAf/aAAgBAgEBPwEh/8QAHhAAAgEDBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECESEyAxIxQVH/2gAIAQEABj8CUYUqRTvX0xN0RM4JEdRZCt0f/8QAGhABAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBEP/aAAgBAQABPyGsB6b0ihWoVojkIolSdCIrdEc8hor8wwNq25wLif/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQvM+A/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASEAEHH/2gAIAQMBAT8QIbmbf//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARAh/9oACAECAQE/EISwdv/EAB0QAQACAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExUWFxQYH/2gAIAQEAAT8QMxiNRC+O+ZcFNh6fm4hoTKvw0U59hRrO9mofRc7moKYvHpKDjSkmXiAcC0aPtT//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0b6209d7b07adbd7882a06ec69c8876e/f9913/pablo-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b6209d7b07adbd7882a06ec69c8876e/f836f/pablo-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0b6209d7b07adbd7882a06ec69c8876e/2244e/pablo-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0b6209d7b07adbd7882a06ec69c8876e/f9913/pablo-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe even went stand up paddle boarding with me the first weekend I had him
\n
My five-year-old daughter, Macy, is registered as Severely Sight Impaired (blind).She has a life-limiting genetic condition called Alstrom Syndrome and has been matched with Pablo by the Guide Dogs charity.
\n\n\nPablo has helped improve Macy’s confidence
\n
He is her Buddy Dog and has improved her life immeasurably. Buddy Dogs are pups that have been bred by Guide Dogs but couldn’t continue on the training programme. They are then given the opportunity to help a visually impaired child.
\nPablo has helped improve Macy’s confidence, given her more independence, and provides her with the constant companionship she needs. They’re totally inseparable, and with him by her side, she can be more active and playful.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pablo","tags":["Adult","Small","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pablo-olivia","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/99bfd08c53ee80a47842b5eea6816374/f9913/pablo-olivia-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/99bfd08c53ee80a47842b5eea6816374/f836f/pablo-olivia-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/99bfd08c53ee80a47842b5eea6816374/2244e/pablo-olivia-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/99bfd08c53ee80a47842b5eea6816374/f9913/pablo-olivia-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pablo is a miniature schnauzer. My partner Scott and I welcomed him into our family to keep me company when I wasn’t working due to migraines. We got him from a breeder who also owned his mum and dad, and they brought him up around their family until he was ready to move in with us.
\nPablo is very anxious. But he likes to bark, and he’s getting better and better each day! Back in 2019, he suddenly became more and more affectionate towards me. He would cuddle me, snuggle right into my tummy whenever he could and bark when people came near me. Two weeks later, I found out I was pregnant with my first child. We all said he knew! Since then, Pablo has been amazing with my daughter, Esmay, and she loves him so much.
\n\n\nI really think dogs know us better than we do
\n
Fast forward to 2021, Pablo started acting the same way towards me – cuddling me, lying on me, not leaving my side. We weren’t trying for another child, but I rang a friend and said to her ‘I think I’m pregnant. Pablo is acting like he did before I found out with Esmay.’ I hadn’t even told Scott I was going to do a test!
\nAnyway, turns out I was expecting again! Pablo is also amazing with his brother, Jude. I really think dogs know us better than we do. Or maybe Pablo is just one of a kind. He’ll be happy soon as we’re currently doing up a campervan, making sure we have room for all three of our babies.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pablo","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pablo-traci","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f55de21ec880646ac8ef9270599a4f11/f9913/pablo-traci-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f55de21ec880646ac8ef9270599a4f11/f836f/pablo-traci-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f55de21ec880646ac8ef9270599a4f11/2244e/pablo-traci-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f55de21ec880646ac8ef9270599a4f11/f9913/pablo-traci-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pablo originally lived in Gran Canaria. He came over to England in November 2019 and went to live with a foster mum in Sheffield through a charity called Pet Pals GC. Around this time, our beloved border collie, Barney, had been diagnosed with aggressive lymphoma and we were told he wouldn’t make it to Christmas. We sadly lost Barney in December and our hearts were truly shattered.
\nI was sad, but I also I knew I had the room in my heart to look after another dog. We’ve always had big dogs, but I had recently been diagnosed with arthritis in my spine and knees, so I felt a smaller breed would better fit the bill. I came across Pablo while browsing animal charities online and arranged to go and visit him in Sheffield the following week.
\n\n\nAs soon as I met him, I could feel my heart melting
\n
As soon as I met him, I could feel my heart mending a little bit, as he sat straight on my lap and covered me in kisses. A couple of weeks after taking Pablo home, we went into lockdown. We’d go out for walks every day around the golf course, where Pablo loves playing in the sand bunkers.
\nHe makes us laugh and smile every single day. I still miss my Barney boy, but my heart is now full of love again thanks to our little Spanish street dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Paddington","tags":["Adorable","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-paddington","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7efe34b217b5b5db8ff296db423a3acb/d8815/paddington-header.png","srcSet":"/static/7efe34b217b5b5db8ff296db423a3acb/69585/paddington-header.png 200w,\n/static/7efe34b217b5b5db8ff296db423a3acb/497c6/paddington-header.png 400w,\n/static/7efe34b217b5b5db8ff296db423a3acb/d8815/paddington-header.png 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Paddington love climbing trees, roofs, ladders – basically anything! She was named after Paddington Bear and she definitely lives up to the legacy.
\n\n\nShe has her own routine!
\n
She loves spending time on our farm helping with digging or driving the tractors. She has her own routine of following different people around, depending who needs her help.
\nWe call her a ‘free-range’ dog because she has her own life and we are just here to provide her with treats and food!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Paddy","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-paddy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/74836c57af738806191fbfa71d113956/f9913/paddy-article-header-v2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/74836c57af738806191fbfa71d113956/f836f/paddy-article-header-v2.jpg 200w,\n/static/74836c57af738806191fbfa71d113956/2244e/paddy-article-header-v2.jpg 400w,\n/static/74836c57af738806191fbfa71d113956/f9913/paddy-article-header-v2.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Paddy was brought into a rescue center where I was working as a dog walker. He had been found on a busy road near Newark, and was very thin and dirty. It took him a while to warm to us, but after a lot of perseverance – and the offer of food – Paddy came home with me as a foster dog.
\n\n\nHe’s such a gentle soul
\n
Of course, I failed as a foster parent and adopted Paddy not long after. He’s such a gentle soul, and has proved to be extremely loving and very happy in everyday life. Over the years, he’s attended fundraiser events with me, to raise money for other dogs in recuse centers and to promote awareness of how Lurchers can make lovely pets.
\nTo this day, Paddy loves food, and will pretty much do anything if you bribe him with something tasty! He also enjoys woodland walks, but his favourite thing to do is curl up on the sofa for some cosy snuggles.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Paddy","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-paddy-lloyd","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f1b1ea24fd20b1c49b7a64f93487a2d7/f9913/paddy-lloyd-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f1b1ea24fd20b1c49b7a64f93487a2d7/f836f/paddy-lloyd-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f1b1ea24fd20b1c49b7a64f93487a2d7/2244e/paddy-lloyd-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f1b1ea24fd20b1c49b7a64f93487a2d7/f9913/paddy-lloyd-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Paddy was brought into a local rescue centre, where I was volunteering as a dog walker. He had been found on a busy road near Newark and collected by the dog warden, and he was very thin and dirty. He was so frightened, he actually weed as the warden removed him from the van, and we couldn’t see his tail as it was so tightly tucked between his legs.
\nIt took Paddy a while to warm to us, but after a lot of perseverance – and the offer of a hamburger – he decided we were not so bad. I was asked if we would consider fostering as the rescue centre was full, and Paddy came home with me that afternoon.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s been there for me, my children and now my grandchildren
\n
I failed as a foster parent and adopted Paddy not long after. When he settled in, he was such a gentle soul, and he proved to be extremely loving and very happy in everyday life. That tail was soon visible and is now always wagging.
\nOver the years, Paddy has attended fundraiser events to raise money for other dogs in rescue centres and to promote awareness of how Lurchers can make lovely pets. There are so many Lurchers in need of a forever home.
\nPaddy loves food and will do pretty much anything if you bribe him with something tasty! He’s been there for me, my children and now my grandchildren – he absolutely adores kids and is very gentle around them.
\nHe’s also helped our other rescued Lurcher, Bella, settle in and he’s very tolerant of our resident cats. We sadly lost Oscar, our Labrador cross, to bone cancer last year and Paddy was his companion for 12 years, so we helped each other move forward. Now aged 15, Paddy often likes to sleep in, but he still enjoys his walks – just at a steadier pace.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Paddy","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-paddy-sarah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1d1d5567e0feb98c3fc7f0aafc0b45d9/f9913/paddy-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1d1d5567e0feb98c3fc7f0aafc0b45d9/f836f/paddy-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1d1d5567e0feb98c3fc7f0aafc0b45d9/2244e/paddy-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1d1d5567e0feb98c3fc7f0aafc0b45d9/f9913/paddy-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Paddy arrived at the rescue centre where I volunteered in November 2009. He was so terrified that he was put straight into a quiet area, where I sat with him. I took him home as a foster dog, and before long, he had become a permanent member of my family.
\n\n\nWe had to Paddy-proof the house
\n
He is quite a character. He counter-surfed until we trained him not to, still raids the bin if he gets chance, he can open doors and also jumps very high. We had to Paddy-proof the house to make sure he was safe!
\nMy dog has helped me through some really tough times over the years. He’s so loving once you earn his trust, and he adores children. Paddy is best friends with our cats and likes to help other timid animals to come out of their shell. He also works to raise awareness about Lurchers and show what fabulous pets they can be with the right care and attention.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Paddy and Ted","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-paddy-ted","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/bc54f472cb32d32ef675085ea06e2153/f9913/paddy-ted-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bc54f472cb32d32ef675085ea06e2153/f836f/paddy-ted-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/bc54f472cb32d32ef675085ea06e2153/2244e/paddy-ted-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/bc54f472cb32d32ef675085ea06e2153/f9913/paddy-ted-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog was a huge source of comfort when I was on long-term sick leave from my job as a primary teacher nearly four years ago. I suffered complications after having shingles and had no idea when I’d get better.
\nBut Paddy forced me out in the fresh air and it lifted my mood. I’d been teaching Eco subjects and my dogs have always loved a plastic bottle, which is why I started noticing and picking up more litter on our walks.
\nEventually, I formed a Facebook group – Paws on Plastic – and added everyone I knew who had dogs, encouraging them to pick up a few pieces of litter on their dog walks every day and share a photo of their dog. More people joined as friends were added and I started posting in other groups. It became a lovely, supportive community that really gave me a focus and extra support at a time when I really struggled.
\n\n\nI started this huge campaign that removes over 30 million pieces of litter every year
\n
The group grew to over 21,000 members with followers in over 70 countries worldwide across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. We became a charity in September 2021.
\nI never made it back to the classroom, but I started this huge campaign that removes well over 30 million pieces of litter every year, saving lots of animals from harm and preventing plastic from entering the sea. I’m extremely grateful to my dog Paddy, my other dog Ted who joined us in 2019 and my original bottle-loving dog, Murphy, who we lost in 2015.
\nPaddy and Ted are gorgeous fox red Labradors. They are extremely friendly and loving, and completely inseparable. Ted is epileptic and Paddy is extremely protective of him. He adored him from the minute he arrived and is so patient with him. Ted is extremely clingy with me, always glued to my side. He’s a really sweet dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Paloma and Kyuss","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-paloma-and-kyuss","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/da3d0263bc0cc776bdee5cd5eddf28b0/f9913/paloma-kyuss-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/da3d0263bc0cc776bdee5cd5eddf28b0/f836f/paloma-kyuss-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/da3d0263bc0cc776bdee5cd5eddf28b0/2244e/paloma-kyuss-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/da3d0263bc0cc776bdee5cd5eddf28b0/f9913/paloma-kyuss-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our little troublemakers are a pair of long-haired mini dachshunds, who turned our world upside down when they joined us as pups back in 2017.
\nThere are so many funny things that they do, and even on a down day they make us smile. Paloma’s cutest habit is that every night after dinner, she waits for her dad to lie on the floor so she can rest on him for neck kisses. The truth is that everything she does makes us smile.
\n\n\nThey have such short legs!
\n
In 2018, she was diagnosed with lymphoma, and we chose to treat her with chemo as she is so young and has so much fight in her. We needed to give it a shot. Almost 18 months on and she is still beating cancer. Everything she does is special to us – as you can imagine she is so spoiled, even more than she was before she got ill!
\nKyuss is a food obsessed mummy’s boy. We know it’s very naughty but his endless tricks to get more treats makes us laugh. We love to take them both out on long walks, which I’m not sure we’d do without them. The longest walk we have done is 10 miles – not bad considering they have such short legs! They love our country walks and always stay close by, not down to good training but because they’re total wimps!
\nKyuss and Paloma bring so much joy into our home – or, their home rather, because let’s face it, we’re just here to provide treats and kisses!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Patch","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-patch","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1b9ba7cfe456cbe209b15e41622c83f0/f9913/patch-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1b9ba7cfe456cbe209b15e41622c83f0/f836f/patch-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1b9ba7cfe456cbe209b15e41622c83f0/2244e/patch-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1b9ba7cfe456cbe209b15e41622c83f0/f9913/patch-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Patch is such a loving dog. He enjoys nothing more than a good cuddle – but don’t be fooled, because he can also be a cheeky little rascal! One of his worst habits is unplugging things from their sockets. Once, he even managed to unplug my freezer! I’ve had to strategically place objects around the house now in an effort to deter him.
\n\n\nHe can also be a cheeky little rascal!
\n
One of the things I love most about Patch is his quirkiness. He likes to make himself comfortable, so every day he jumps up onto the sofa and rearranges the cushions so he has a stack of pillows to rest his head on. It makes us laugh every time!
\nHe’s also extremely protective of me. Patch loves to sit and look out of the window, but if he sees someone approaching the house he barks like mad at them. Of course, that’s not to say he doesn’t know how to behave – every evening after I’ve done the dishes, he sits and waits patiently for me to give him his treat.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Patsy","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-patsy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9a52e2889da8e994cb0e7d059814b2e1/f9913/patsy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a52e2889da8e994cb0e7d059814b2e1/f836f/patsy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9a52e2889da8e994cb0e7d059814b2e1/2244e/patsy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9a52e2889da8e994cb0e7d059814b2e1/f9913/patsy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Patsy was two when we adopted her from Bath Cats and Dogs Home. She had just had a litter of pups and was handed in. She was tiny, seemed so scared and frail, and we were nervous taking her home. We were so wrong! She walked in, took the bone out of our other dog Eddie’s mouth, pushed him out of his bed and made herself at home. She treated Eddie like her puppy and still does.
\nOver the months it was clear that Patsy hadn't had the best start. House training was a nightmare, she couldn't walk far as she had little muscle and very cracked pads, she was also scared of walking sticks, but loved people. Six years on and she is so different. She’s much more confident and a local favourite! Patsy loves people and loves a cuddle, and everyone is willing to oblige.
\n\n\nShe is our family and we love her
\n
She loves Eddie and still cleans his face every day – even though we don’t think he actually likes it he still lets her do it. Some days she won’t walk, some days it’s like walking a bag of potatoes, but as soon as she’s in the woods, she comes alive! Exploring, chasing squirrels and having fun. And, although she’s not built for swimming (her body to leg ratio is not great) she loves the water and will always paddle in streams and loves a beach trip.
\nShe is getting old, has terrible wind, snores like a steam train and is stubborn like I’ve never known before, but she is our family and we love her. She’s great for a cuddle on the sofa and the comedy value is priceless.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Peanut","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-peanut","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d40fe244dfbfb317a53c862e5c1ba52e/f9913/peanut-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d40fe244dfbfb317a53c862e5c1ba52e/f836f/peanut-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d40fe244dfbfb317a53c862e5c1ba52e/2244e/peanut-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d40fe244dfbfb317a53c862e5c1ba52e/f9913/peanut-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Peanut is a Pomeranian who was imported in early 2019, and seized at Dover as he was suspected of being underage and was very poorly, weighing just 0.7kg.
\nHe went to Dogs Trust and received veterinary care, but his importer decided not to claim him, so he was put up for adoption. We went to meet him and decided to adopt him. But two days before I was due to collect him, he collapsed and was found having a seizure in his kennel.
\n\n\nHe likes to practice Parkour whenever he sees a chance
\n
He then spent several weeks at vets across Kent where he was tested for everything and finally diagnosed with Toy Dog hypoglycaemia. We fostered him and eventually signed the adoption papers in April 2019.
\nPeanut is tiny. He weighs 2.6kg, has a massive coat and likes to practice Parkour whenever he sees a chance. He’s already had to go to the emergency vets following a fall from a windowsill and a coffee table (twice!).
\nHe is cheeky and a proper handful to train. He flies at the TV if they dare to put an animal on it and he is very high maintenance. But he is also very loving, he likes to be read a story (he tends to join in with his own comments!) and he has a wicked sense of humour. I can’t imagine life without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Peanut","tags":["Puppy","Small","Adorable","Funny"],"slug":"meet-peanut-bella","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a7fd39550b7dd11a838e5e116df409da/f9913/peanut-bella-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a7fd39550b7dd11a838e5e116df409da/f836f/peanut-bella-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a7fd39550b7dd11a838e5e116df409da/2244e/peanut-bella-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a7fd39550b7dd11a838e5e116df409da/f9913/peanut-bella-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ever since Peanut came into my life, every day has become an adventure. At just four months old, this little Frenchie already knows how to keep me on my toes with his sassy personality and hilarious antics.
\n\n\n\n\nHis mischievousness makes me smile
\n
Whether he’s chasing his own tail or stubbornly refusing to move until he gets his favourite treat, Peanut fills my home with laughter and love. His playful mischievousness makes me smile, even on the toughest days.
\nPeanut truly has this special ability to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pebble","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pebble","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/36370be9bc32fd8ed314f4d613d68570/f9913/pebble-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/36370be9bc32fd8ed314f4d613d68570/f836f/pebble-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/36370be9bc32fd8ed314f4d613d68570/2244e/pebble-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/36370be9bc32fd8ed314f4d613d68570/f9913/pebble-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pebble is my little furry rock. When I lost my husband to cancer, the loneliness was so hard to bear. So, after a lot of research and talking to friends, I decided to look for a puppy. I came across a litter of Beddlington Whippets – the mum was a first cross Beddlington Whippet and the dad was a full pedigree Whippet.
\nPebble was one of nine in the litter – two others were smooth-haired like her, while the other six were rough-coated. I fell for her the first moment I saw her at six weeks old. When she was old enough to leave her mum, she came to live with me and has been my constant companion ever since.
\n\n\n\n\nI fell for her the first moment I saw her
\n
She's fun, makes me laugh every day and gets me out of the house. I now have plenty of exercise and stop to chat to so many people who marvel at how fast she is. In the evenings we cuddle on the sofa, and she gets into some of the most unusual goofy positions.
\nWe go away together in my campervan and have attended many fun dog shows, country fairs and other charity events – she’s so pretty, she’s done well in many of the shows. She does also have her quirks, like recently she became scared of a new water bowl! And she’s nosey, so she’s been known to walk into fences and walls because she’s turning to look behind her. She’s the very best dog in the world and always brings a smile to my face.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pebbles","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pebbles","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a76ed0891384c7e1f6b39fb33f584b2c/f9913/pebbles-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a76ed0891384c7e1f6b39fb33f584b2c/f836f/pebbles-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a76ed0891384c7e1f6b39fb33f584b2c/2244e/pebbles-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a76ed0891384c7e1f6b39fb33f584b2c/f9913/pebbles-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I adopted Pebbles when she was 15 weeks old from a rescue centre. She’s a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the sweetest face and waggy tail. I was recovering from breast cancer at the time, and still felt anxious after a year of treatment. She constantly made me laugh – she’d even walk around with my finger in her mouth, leading me round the room!
\n\n\n\n\nPebbles has made me enjoy life again
\n
Now, she brings me toys and wakes me up every morning with a kiss. She always tells me when she wants a cuddle. She’s just my best friend.
\nPebbles has made me enjoy life again and look to the future. We love walks and trips to the pub or shops. I’ve also enrolled her on a scent detection course, and she’s been having so much fun doing it.
\nI think she actually rescued me, and I’m grateful every day for the happiness and love she provides. Her nickname is Starfish as she sleeps on her back with her legs out, like a starfish.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Princess Peggy","tags":["Senior","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-peggy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e5e675990b10d3c339e33eaad2d45494/f9913/peggy-kathleen-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e5e675990b10d3c339e33eaad2d45494/f836f/peggy-kathleen-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e5e675990b10d3c339e33eaad2d45494/2244e/peggy-kathleen-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e5e675990b10d3c339e33eaad2d45494/f9913/peggy-kathleen-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I bought Princess Peg Peg, or Peggy, for my son Michael who has Asperger’s, and he named her. Straight away, we knew she was special. It was easy to teach her commands and there’s not a bad bone in her body.
\nOne day, she was looking out of the upstairs window, and could see Michael in the garden below. She leaned out too much and fell! Miraculously, she was uninjured. How? We don’t know. Maybe she had a guardian angel!
\n\n\n\n\nThere’s not a bad bone in her body
\n
Another time, Michael was across the road when Princess Peggy ran out of the house to be with him. A car hit her, and again, she was uninjured! So, she learnt the hard way NOT to lean out of windows, and NOT to run across the road.
\nHer wonderful nature has brought her many friends, young and old, over the years. Two years ago she was diagnosed with cancer, but after having the lumps removed, she’s made a full recovery.
\nPrincess Peggy will be 14 next month, but we hope that she’ll be around for a few more years, greeting all who may come her way.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pepe","tags":["Adult","Small","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pepe","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/706f8d8e1b915229e6ad95e958dc3729/f9913/pepe-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/706f8d8e1b915229e6ad95e958dc3729/f836f/pepe-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/706f8d8e1b915229e6ad95e958dc3729/2244e/pepe-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/706f8d8e1b915229e6ad95e958dc3729/f9913/pepe-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pepe is a joy. I was living alone before I got him, and it was just a bit lonely. It had been a couple of years since my previous dog had passed away, and I had been on the fence about whether to get another dog. If I did, I knew it would have to be the right one.
\n\n\nHe is the sweetest, friendliest and quietest dog I’ve known
\n
In the end, picking Pepe was a bit of a whirlwind. I adopted him from a family who had other big dogs where Pepe (as a Chihuahua) was getting trampled. Unlike many Chihuahuas, he is the sweetest, friendliest and quietest dog I’ve known. He’s happy to meet everyone, children and adults alike, and he’s always curious about other dogs – if a little nervous around the bouncy ones. I don’t blame him!
\nHe’s fitted into my life perfectly. He’ll hop in a bag and come into the shops with me, chill out in the office at work, travel on adventures with me in the campervan, and sleep while I’m working from home. It sounds cliché, but he literally gives me a reason to smile every single day, and I just hope he feels the same.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pepper","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Family"],"slug":"meet-pepper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4045435f4accb09ea98eeee78d103acb/f9913/pepper-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4045435f4accb09ea98eeee78d103acb/f836f/pepper-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/4045435f4accb09ea98eeee78d103acb/2244e/pepper-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/4045435f4accb09ea98eeee78d103acb/f9913/pepper-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pepper has taken on the role of big brother as if it’s his calling!
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s absolutely brilliant
\n
When we welcomed our first son in July 2023, we were worried how Pepper would feel, as he’s always been the baby in our family. However, he’s absolutely brilliant – he even waits by the baby’s bed each morning and barks at me when he wakes up!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pepsi","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pepsi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/29431195bde56956c2ea3177c1a87699/f9913/pepsi-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/29431195bde56956c2ea3177c1a87699/f836f/pepsi-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/29431195bde56956c2ea3177c1a87699/2244e/pepsi-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/29431195bde56956c2ea3177c1a87699/f9913/pepsi-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pepsi is a 9-month-old female border collie. We knew that she was a great dog, but she really proved that when Walt, my ambulance technician partner, got COVID-19. I'm a community nurse so I looked after him at home for four days. Pepsi sat on the decking below his bedroom window listening to him cough. He was so ill that he was unable to move. She couldn't understand what was happening.
\nAfter four days, he really deteriorated and was admitted to a hospital 80 miles away. I was lost. I didn't know if I'd ever see him again alive. I didn't want to get up – the days were too long and scary. However, I knew Pepsi needed me so we sat in the garden and played ball. If I cried after seeing Walt on a videocall she would jump up and cuddle me.
\n\n\nLife is on the up again
\n
Walt began to give up the fight in the hospital. He hated being away from us and he was so ill with the constant cough and fatigue. We sent videos of the dog and encouraged him to stay strong so he could come home to his ‘therapet’ (we always called her that). When he was finally discharged, she rarely left his side and I know he needed her every bit as much as he needed me to nurse him.
\nNow, Pepsi is his reason to fight the fatigue and get out. She has recently learned to swim, so we go places where Walt can just sit and watch her play.
\nI know every dog is their owner’s best friend but Pepsi is an ace dog who has really earned her ‘therapet’ nickname. We love her. She loves us. Life is on the up again.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Percy","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-percy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/dacd8037bbd02a640bfc0fab0b8abb6e/f9913/percy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dacd8037bbd02a640bfc0fab0b8abb6e/f836f/percy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/dacd8037bbd02a640bfc0fab0b8abb6e/2244e/percy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/dacd8037bbd02a640bfc0fab0b8abb6e/f9913/percy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Percy is a singer. He has several favourite tunes, but his go-to is A Kind of Magic by Queen. No matter where he is, he can't control himself, if he hears this song he must sing to it!
\n\n\nSinging at the top of his voice
\n
A couple of years ago, we were on holiday in the south of France, and found a pub we liked to go to every evening. One night, Queen came on the jukebox and Percy was away, singing, or more correctly, howling, at the top of his voice – much to the amusement of the guests.
\nThe bar owner cottoned on to this, so every evening at the same time he would turn on the jukebox and Percy would do his thing. One night, there was a Karaoke competition. Needless to say, Percy took center stage – which was an upside down beer barrel with a microphone placed in front of it – and started singing at the top of his voice. He attracted quite a crowd and won by a mile, and afterwards became somewhat of a local celebrity!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Petal","tags":["Adorable","Senior","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-petal","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9ab13ca3589ec00683330949531704bf/f9913/petal-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9ab13ca3589ec00683330949531704bf/f836f/petal-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9ab13ca3589ec00683330949531704bf/2244e/petal-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9ab13ca3589ec00683330949531704bf/f9913/petal-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Petal is a 17-year-old mini Jack Russell, tiny even by Jack Russell standards. She's so petite that we think there may be some chihuahua in her.
\nShe might be ancient, but she's still got it! Her gait is most accurately described as a sassy strut. She's still in the prime of her life as far as she's concerned. Being old hasn't diminished her joy for chasing squirrels in the park, or even her own tail.
\nBecause she's so small, she has to make a jump over the back doorstep to come in from the garden. She always completes her jump with stylish aplomb, reminiscent of a show jumping horse.
\n\n\nShe might be ancient, but she's still got it!
\n
Her seniority has inevitably led to her having a few less teeth compared with when she was a youngster. This means she's particularly fond of her Winalot gravy satchets because she finds the food not only tasty, but also very easy to eat. She gets excited when she sees the sachets appear at dinnertime and, without fail, does her 'hurry up and feed me' bark whilst waiting for her bowl to be filled.
\nShe lives with CC, an 11-year-old chocolate Labrador, and they are the best of friends. She likes snuggling up to CC for naps. But Petal is the boss, and she has no qualms reminding CC of this as and when required.
\nA few years ago, she was lucky enough to win first place in the Dog with Best Personality category at a local Fun Day Dog Contest. One of her prizes was a tennis ball and thrower but the ball was a bit too big for her. She had no problems passing it on to CC as a consolation prize. But she's far less generous when it comes to her sharing her dinner!
\nPetal may be small, but she has a huge personality that lights up any room. She is a cute little bundle of fun and love who brings a great deal of joy to all of us that have the good fortune to share our lives with her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pickle ","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pickle","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7a8fec4049aed45e9e3be19f268d49c2/f9913/pickle-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7a8fec4049aed45e9e3be19f268d49c2/f836f/pickle-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7a8fec4049aed45e9e3be19f268d49c2/2244e/pickle-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7a8fec4049aed45e9e3be19f268d49c2/f9913/pickle-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pickle was the last one in her litter, but even if we had an option we would always have gone for her. She is absolutely the one!
\n\n\nShe has never left my side
\n
She has brought a life to the family and she makes home ‘home’. She recently has helped me to go through the loss of my dad. She has never left my side and has always been the bouncy social butterfly jumpy Pickle.
\nWe can also take her to the office, where she is helping me to get through this difficult time with my colleagues. I cannot love her enough!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pickle","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pickle-lyndsey","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d0f3ab960f2e9d1c97be6c1a059cd419/f9913/pickle-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d0f3ab960f2e9d1c97be6c1a059cd419/f836f/pickle-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d0f3ab960f2e9d1c97be6c1a059cd419/2244e/pickle-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d0f3ab960f2e9d1c97be6c1a059cd419/f9913/pickle-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pickle is a lockdown puppy, as we got him in July 2020. I am a nurse and have worked throughout the lockdowns. From the moment Pickle came into our house, he made us laugh and gave us all a reason to smile again. He truly was a ray of sunshine in a pretty grey and miserable year.
\n\n\nHe always knows if we’re going out without him
\n
He’s a clever dog, and always knows if we’re going out without him. When he can sense this is about to happen, he’ll refuse to come in from the garden, stopping us from leaving! His favourite thing to do is chase after balls, so every time we walk him, we take about three with us. One is for him to chase, one’s for him to carry while he runs and the other is a spare, because he’ll inevitably lose a ball along the way.
\nMy dog has recently helped me to raise money for the charity Dementia UK. We did a 100km walk for them in just three days, and Pickle joined us every step of the way. We’re very proud of him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pickle","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family"],"slug":"meet-pickle-stephanie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAv/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABq6wtGrkRM3WBsGNf/8QAHRAAAgIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxESEyIjMf/aAAgBAQABBQKy3MV1I4xdW4B2FHyPaBkmf//EABkRAAEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhAREv/aAAgBAwEBPwFKMjY//8QAGREAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECEBES/9oACAECAQE/AXqOiVf/xAAeEAACAQMFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREQMTICEiFRYf/aAAgBAQAGPwKNLXopotrvwZWsYkib6p//xAAeEAACAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhQVExYYGRof/aAAgBAQABPyFbXGSEArbyyN/o3AJS7J/UExEvJfYKuTSFGf/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQ18C+/8QAFxEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAhMf/aAAgBAwEBPxAI2ep//8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAhMf/aAAgBAgEBPxAiRcr/xAAcEAEBAAMBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMUFxocH/2gAIAQEAAT8Q0tO08vC4hqmj5xBn3wKkwhwLizLdF1uc/MQwB9nK2UDSMiYM1QV92XAKHM//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/736da28118d7f7661aae79a4f1f9f595/f9913/pickle-stephanie-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/736da28118d7f7661aae79a4f1f9f595/f836f/pickle-stephanie-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/736da28118d7f7661aae79a4f1f9f595/2244e/pickle-stephanie-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/736da28118d7f7661aae79a4f1f9f595/f9913/pickle-stephanie-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We’ve had Pickle since she was two years old, when another family decided they no longer wanted her.
\nOur youngest daughter had been suffering from mental health issues for several years and persuaded us that a therapy dog would really help her move forward in a positive way.
\n\n\n\n\nShe brings great joy to our lives
\n
In actual fact, Pickle has been a blessing to the entire family. From daily dog walks, chasing squirrels and learning new tricks, to constant cuddles, making us smile and finishing our ice creams, she brings great joy to our lives.
\nPickle has saved our family and helped us navigate difficult times. We cannot imagine life without our gorgeous furry friend, and we love her to the moon and back.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Piker","tags":["Funny","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-piker","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5eb5f3a10febaf057e253288ee4278b6/f9913/piker-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5eb5f3a10febaf057e253288ee4278b6/f836f/piker-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5eb5f3a10febaf057e253288ee4278b6/2244e/piker-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5eb5f3a10febaf057e253288ee4278b6/f9913/piker-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Piker has a beautiful temperament and she’s extremely clever, even though she is still young. She is a firm part of our family now and loves being with us all the time – so much so that she follows us around constantly, and even waits patiently for you if you’re busy.
\n\n\nShe is a firm part of our family
\n
Something that makes her unique is her love of rain. We practically have to force her inside when it’s wet so she doesn’t get too cold! Piker is very agile and super speedy, so she loves jumping and vaulting over the back of our sofa.
\nShe is a bundle of fun and mischievous in the best possible way. We’re always amused by her funny antics!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pip","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pip","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0c87f69bcb1f86df9154692a47802d4d/f9913/pip-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0c87f69bcb1f86df9154692a47802d4d/f836f/pip-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0c87f69bcb1f86df9154692a47802d4d/2244e/pip-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0c87f69bcb1f86df9154692a47802d4d/f9913/pip-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We have sheep, so we decided to get a Border Collie to help us with rounding them up. Pip is brilliant at that and really loves her work.
\nI do a lot of hiking and have always wanted to walk Hadrian's Wall, which stretches across England. Last September, Pip and I booked our ferry from Ireland and we stayed in hikers' hotels all along the trail. Pip was welcome everywhere – in all the hotels, pubs, and even on the ramblers' bus which would take us to the nearest town each afternoon for supplies. At the end of our trip, we got to Newcastle and took the train back to Carlisle to get the car. All along the trail, people asked me ‘How are you doing this on your own?’, and I told them that I’m never on my own when I have Pip by my side.
\n\n\nI’m never on my own when I have Pip
\n
Thanks to my furry companion, I enjoyed my holiday all the more, and it just wouldn’t have been the same without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Piper","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-piper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c3f45696c05f383f4379971e57a05d17/f9913/piper-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c3f45696c05f383f4379971e57a05d17/f836f/piper-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c3f45696c05f383f4379971e57a05d17/2244e/piper-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c3f45696c05f383f4379971e57a05d17/f9913/piper-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Piper from Bosnia. It took months of stress and heartache to get her and we really thought she was never going to get here.
\nSince she arrived the day before my birthday (perhaps that was fate) she has brought so much joy into our lives. She's so much fun, so cheeky and compassionate. We could never imagine life without her.
\n\n\nShe's too clever for her own good, or ours more to the point!
\n
She's too clever for her own good, or ours more to the point! She's learnt so much since she has been with us. She didn't know how to sit, but now she can sit pretty, as well as roll over and play dead. The list goes on and she absolutely loves training and learning.
\n\"Find it\" is her favourite game. Well, almost. I think her real favourite is playing victim and being chased around the house. We always know when she wants to play this – we get a slap from both paws on the backside, then it's game on. I may be very biased, but she's the most amazing puppy in the world!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Piper","tags":["Senior","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-piper-deborah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/407a51bc0ead271f3ab61f4ca6210adc/f9913/piper-deborah-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/407a51bc0ead271f3ab61f4ca6210adc/f836f/piper-deborah-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/407a51bc0ead271f3ab61f4ca6210adc/2244e/piper-deborah-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/407a51bc0ead271f3ab61f4ca6210adc/f9913/piper-deborah-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When I was volunteering to walk rescue dogs, I came across this lovely little white Boxer. I fell in love with her, brought her home and called her Piper. She came into our lives as my oldest girl was about to join the army, so she’s been a very welcome and crazy distraction in the eight years we’ve had her.
\nIn that time, she has destroyed three air fryers by knocking them down and stealing the food. She has stolen beetroots, courgettes, carrots. She has eaten five people’s worth of spag bol, escaped from a secure field, and refused for 24 hours to come downstairs!
\n\n\nShe’s definitely kept us on our toes, but we love her so much
\n
Her ultimate crime was on Christmas Day 2013. My daughter was home on leave from the army, and we were just sitting down for breakfast when Piper began to choke. She had swallowed a large knotted raw hide bone whole and lengthways, and she was foaming at the mouth and collapsing.
\nWe rang the local vet who put her under and tried to remove the bone but no joy. We had to take her to Newmarket, with specialists holding her head in position to help her breathe. It was a two-hour journey, and when we arrived she was taken straight in for surgery. My daughter and I were still in our pyjamas, looking for somewhere to wait. We ended up in a pub cooking lunch for the homeless, where they fed and watered us.
\nFive hours later, the bone was removed, and Piper stayed there for the night. When we drove back on Boxing Day, she bounced out of the vets. We were told to keep her quiet for 48 hours. Within 10 minutes of arriving back home in Great Yarmouth, she was bouncing on the kids’ trampoline!
\nThis dog has definitely kept us on our toes, but we love her so much. Have a Boxer they said, it will be fun they said...
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pippa","tags":["Adult","Small","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pippa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6765fb828071c69665c04adb9d2cf4d2/f9913/pippa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6765fb828071c69665c04adb9d2cf4d2/f836f/pippa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6765fb828071c69665c04adb9d2cf4d2/2244e/pippa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6765fb828071c69665c04adb9d2cf4d2/f9913/pippa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pippa entered our lives, like a hurricane, in June 2021. We had all had our lives tipped upside down by Covid, and to top it all off, my partner Pete was diagnosed with terminal cancer. This was an enormous shock, as he had never had anything more than a mild cold in our 21 years together.
\nWe’d recently heard about a five-month-old Patterdale Jack Russell who had been purchased by a family for their 17-year-old son during lockdown. Unfortunately, after six weeks or so, the son had completely lost interest in her, and she needed a new home. We hadn't been looking for a new best friend at the time, as we’d lost our elderly Parsons Jack Russell the year before. And what with Pete’s diagnosis, and me being on the waiting list for a new knee, we really weren't in the best place to take on a very lively young dog.
\n\n\n\n\nI am convinced this little doggy was sent to us from heaven
\n
We discussed all the pros and all the cons and thought to ourselves ‘surely we can’t be this daft?!’ But we eventually decided that life is too short, and we needed someone to make us laugh, comfort us when we needed a cuddle and help us to face the world every day. Boy, oh boy, did we find the right medicine. Pippa is the funniest, cheekiest, most adorable, best friend we could ever have hoped for. Pete passed away five months ago, and I am convinced this little doggy was sent to us from heaven. She has saved my life. She’s my rock and my reason to carry on.
\nRight now, as I tell you my little story, I am in a hospital bed with my brand-new knee, missing Pippa very much. I’m missing the way she sits across my chest so she can feel my heartbeat, and the way she uses hypnotherapy when she thinks she deserves a treat. She won't be missing me right now though, as she’s having an amazing, thoroughly deserved holiday on the beach. She’ll be running through the woods, swimming in the river and probably getting covered in mud. And we’ll be doing all those things together from here on in, for many years to come.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pippi","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-pippi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/031acd1b7b8b413d63a383e49f61f8d7/f9913/pippi-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/031acd1b7b8b413d63a383e49f61f8d7/f836f/pippi-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/031acd1b7b8b413d63a383e49f61f8d7/2244e/pippi-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/031acd1b7b8b413d63a383e49f61f8d7/f9913/pippi-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pippi is a sweetheart. She adores people and wants to be best friends with everyone she meets. She loves to beg for cucumber slices and then sneak away to eat them in secret!
\nDue to an infection, Pippi has no teeth. So, when she falls asleep, her little tongue sticks out of her mouth. She looks so funny!
\n\n\n\n\nI’m a very proud pup mum!
\n
I’m disabled and she loves to just sit and cuddle me. She always makes me feel better.
\nPippi has just had knee surgery, so she’s been stuck inside to recover but she’s been so good. I’m a very proud pup mum!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pippit","tags":["Adorable","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pippit","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/457ff184c11e836d8be6cef4810fa5b7/f9913/pippit-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/457ff184c11e836d8be6cef4810fa5b7/f836f/pippit-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/457ff184c11e836d8be6cef4810fa5b7/2244e/pippit-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/457ff184c11e836d8be6cef4810fa5b7/f9913/pippit-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We sadly lost our Springer Rowan about the same time that Pip was born. Rowan had travelled all over Europe with us in our caravan and was our constant companion. Losing him broke our hearts, but Pip mended them.
\n\n\nPip has so many funny quirks
\n
He’s a working Springer, but his favourite place to be is on the back of the sofa, where he sits crouched like a rather odd-looking leopard. Pip has so many funny quirks, like taking his bed out of his crate every morning. He always looks so proud trotting up and down the corridor with it, and he’s kept us going through lockdown just by making us laugh every day.
\nPip has a long coat over his shoulders which curls the wrong way, which can sometimes make him look as though he’s got a lion’s mane. One of his favourite things to do is search for treats I’ve hidden around the house for him. In the evenings, he likes to curl round my neck to watch TV. He really is an adorable, loving little chap.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pippy and Mollie","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pippy-mollie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2312b27d60696d3b844ba39281429a7a/f9913/pippy-mollie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2312b27d60696d3b844ba39281429a7a/f836f/pippy-mollie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2312b27d60696d3b844ba39281429a7a/2244e/pippy-mollie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2312b27d60696d3b844ba39281429a7a/f9913/pippy-mollie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I had to shield during lockdown, and I found it really hard. Without the love and care l got from Pippy, l don't think l would have made it through.She made me laugh with her funny antics, cuddled me all night and checked up on me during the day.
\n\n\nBasically a real-life Scooby Doo
\n
Pippy is hilarious and obsessed with food. Not a day goes by when she doesn’t steal a spoonful of my porridge in the morning! She also loves playing with her ball and is basically a real-life Scooby Doo. If my other dog Mollie loses her ball, Pippy usually finds it and points to it with her nose so Mollie knows where it is, but sometimes, Pippy will just steal it andrun away.
\nThe past twelve months have been so tough, but with my dogs by my side, I’ve got through it all.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pixie","tags":["Senior","Small","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pixie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cc5005fed03e46340712d830c07dcfaa/f9913/pixie-raven-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cc5005fed03e46340712d830c07dcfaa/f836f/pixie-raven-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cc5005fed03e46340712d830c07dcfaa/2244e/pixie-raven-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cc5005fed03e46340712d830c07dcfaa/f9913/pixie-raven-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pixie is a feisty, scruffy little black Border Terrier Miniature Poodle cross. Her well-earned nickname as a puppy was Taz, after the Tasmanian Devil, as she was a whirlwind of destruction. Keeping her well plied with toys saved our own toys and furniture!
\n\n\n\n\nPixie has only ever known love and comfort
\n
She’s a very sweet little dog, who loves everybody, even the family cat. Despite being 15 years old, she’s still very agile and lively with no stiffness. She still loves her favourite toy – a squeaky, startled baked potato that she’s had since she was a puppy.
\nPixie has only ever known love and comfort, and she’s a great snuggler at night. She’s family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pixie","tags":["Adult","Small","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pixie-janice","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/88ab717d7183f9aef82d45777f030728/f9913/pixie-janice-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/88ab717d7183f9aef82d45777f030728/f836f/pixie-janice-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/88ab717d7183f9aef82d45777f030728/2244e/pixie-janice-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/88ab717d7183f9aef82d45777f030728/f9913/pixie-janice-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We found Pixie from an advert on Facebook. Her owners were looking for someone to take her as they had a new baby. When my husband phoned, they said he’d be in a queue with 12 others, but we could go and meet her. As soon as we walked in, we fell in love with her. We also understood why they wanted to rehome her, as the baby wouldn't leave Pixie alone and kept pulling her ears and tail. They also already had another massive dog and two cats.
\nAt the end of our meeting, they said they wanted us to have her. After making sure our home was suitable, they told us they needed to have her spayed as they didn't want her used for puppy money. We agreed, so they let us have her over the weekend to see what she was like with us. She was brilliant and made no mess at all.
\n\n\n\n\nAs soon as we walked in, we fell in love with her
\n
After her operation, they kept her at their house to keep an eye on her. I was so worried that we wouldn't have her back, but after two days they said we could go and pick her up. She had a neck shield on, but she was okay, and we brought her home.
\nShe settled in brilliantly, but did come with some issues. She doesn’t eat her food straight away, and if we give her a treat, she goes under the table to eat it. She had a dog crate in her last home, so I think she spent a lot of time in there to escape from their other dog. But now she comes everywhere with us, and we don't leave her on her own for one minute. She’s so loving and gentle and I wouldn't be without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pixie","tags":["Adult","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-pixie-rebecca","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/98d8ff138b1c4d7b4f1da95143a292f0/f9913/pixie-rebecca-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/98d8ff138b1c4d7b4f1da95143a292f0/f836f/pixie-rebecca-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/98d8ff138b1c4d7b4f1da95143a292f0/2244e/pixie-rebecca-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/98d8ff138b1c4d7b4f1da95143a292f0/f9913/pixie-rebecca-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Pixie is one of a kind.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s the best friend I could ask for
\n
In fact, she’s more cat than dog. She loves nothing more than spending her days stretching out in the sunshine, relaxing or prowling around the garden. But, when it comes to bedtime, all she wants is a cuddle! She’s the best friend I could ask for.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Playa","tags":["Adorable","Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-playa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/429e3725bd0e6dfd638f4010bf116df4/f9913/playa-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/429e3725bd0e6dfd638f4010bf116df4/f836f/playa-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/429e3725bd0e6dfd638f4010bf116df4/2244e/playa-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/429e3725bd0e6dfd638f4010bf116df4/f9913/playa-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Playa was found with her siblings at the side of the road when she was just a few days old. The litter was fostered, and Playa was adopted but sadly returned after a while. I happened to meet her her at an adoption drive in a pet shop a few months later. I had only gone in to buy cat milk for our newly adopted kitten, Peanut, but I just knew as soon as I saw her that Playa was meant to be ours.
\n\n\nThe two of them are inseparable
\n
She immediately fit right into our busy household, along with our new kitten, Peanut, and two other cats. She loved Peanut from the moment she laid eyes on her, and to this day the two of them are inseparable and even sleep in the same bed. Peanut sees Playa as a toy and chase and bite her tail, but Playa just licks her back.
\nPlaya loves everyone and everything. Our friend has a son who has autism, and he can be intimidated by dogs because of their unpredictable fast movements. But he has no fear of Playa, and loves sitting on the sofa and cuddling with her. Playa shows tremendous patience with all children and young dogs, and is always so gentle and calm around them.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Pluto","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-pluto","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/85ffb05f063d582d0d0d4b24dfcc02c3/f9913/pluto-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/85ffb05f063d582d0d0d4b24dfcc02c3/f836f/pluto-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/85ffb05f063d582d0d0d4b24dfcc02c3/2244e/pluto-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/85ffb05f063d582d0d0d4b24dfcc02c3/f9913/pluto-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My best friend comes from a family who breeds German shepherds. In the summer of 2011, their dog Star gave birth to a litter of eight puppies, and I was helping to look after them all. I’d spend every day tending to the puppies, only ever stopping to sleep, which was quite often on the sofa in the puppy den.
\nHelping Star through her labour was a new experience for me. I found it as terrifying as it was inspiring, and it was so incredible to see each puppy take their first breath. After they had all grown and found a permanent home, I was given the last remaining one from the litter. He was called Pluto.
\n\n\nWe share a very special bond
\n
Nine years later and I still have my beautiful boy. We share a very special bond, since I’ve known him from the minute he was born. I live alone and he really is a huge part of my life. He’s the reason I smile every morning and laugh every day, the last face I see before I go to sleep at night, a shoulder to cry on when I’m upset and my brave protector when we’re out and about.
\nI’ve faced some really dark and difficult moments in the last nine years, and I’m not sure I could have managed them without Pluto by my side.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Poppet","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-poppet","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/eeeb6be7a194cbd13c17837f8500e040/f9913/poppet-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/eeeb6be7a194cbd13c17837f8500e040/f836f/poppet-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/eeeb6be7a194cbd13c17837f8500e040/2244e/poppet-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/eeeb6be7a194cbd13c17837f8500e040/f9913/poppet-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Poppet is a tiny Chihuahua but has the biggest heart and the craziest, most infectious personality.
\nShe never fails to make me laugh, whether she’s zooming across the landing to air dry herself after the bath, leapfrogging over people in the park who then unexpectedly find a Chihuahua in their lap, or falling in love with the new neighbours!
\n\n\nI find nothing more fulfilling than sharing my life with her
\n
Poppet makes everyone smile. I have been in a very dark place with my mental health and sometimes it’s a struggle to get out of bed, but Poppet always makes my day worthwhile.
\nI honestly find nothing more fulfilling than sharing my life with her. It gives me a purpose. She’s not just my dog, she’s my best friend and I don’t do anything without her!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Poppy","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-poppy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/48c5955623eae550207cd42d46437bf7/f9913/poppy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/48c5955623eae550207cd42d46437bf7/f836f/poppy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/48c5955623eae550207cd42d46437bf7/2244e/poppy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/48c5955623eae550207cd42d46437bf7/f9913/poppy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have suffered from anxiety and depression since my twenties, which can be quite tough. But as soon as I got Poppy, she helped me to start living my life to the full. Every morning, she gets me up and forces me to enjoy some fresh air, which is a great way to start the day.
\n\n\nShe’s always happy to see me
\n
I don’t have many friends, but with Poppy by my side I’m more than happy to spend a Saturday night on my own! She’s always so happy to see me and makes me laugh with her quirky ways. She is obsessed with tennis balls, likes to chase squirrels (but has never managed to catch one!) and enjoys nothing better than snuggling in my duvet.
\nShe’s been diagnosed with scoliosis in her back, which means she will eventually become paralysed. But thanks to her medication she’s doing really well and continues to soldier on every day.
\nPoppy has been a constant companion for me, as I am for her. She is my whole world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Poppy","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-poppy-joanna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5b86ed56380a9acd9c39deb0c5e6ec6c/f9913/poppy-joanna-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5b86ed56380a9acd9c39deb0c5e6ec6c/f836f/poppy-joanna-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5b86ed56380a9acd9c39deb0c5e6ec6c/2244e/poppy-joanna-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5b86ed56380a9acd9c39deb0c5e6ec6c/f9913/poppy-joanna-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Poppy was the runt of her litter and was going free to a good home. She has had so many things go wrong in her life, but she takes it on the chin and just accepts them as being part of life. Last year she was diagnosed with low-grade mouth cancer and had a month of radiotherapy treatment. The treatment was successful, and it has not returned, but during a check-up scan in February, we discovered her gall bladder was in a poor state and she had to go on liver support meds. A scan in September found it to be worse, and she had to have it removed in October.
\n\n\nShe brings joy to each and every day
\n
Her recovery has been impressive, and she’s just got on with her life. On top of this, she has an allergy to certain types of pollen and requires a monthly immunotherapy injection to combat it. Poppy remains the most positive of dogs though and is a lesson to us all about accepting knock backs and getting back up and dusting yourself down again. I would be lost without her. She brings joy to each and every day with her positive outlook on life especially in the darkest of years that 2020 has been.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Poppy","tags":["Adorable","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-poppy-rosemary","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Northern Ireland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4bbf58f34af0dc00d645a5968c58f947/9a128/poppy-rosemary-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4bbf58f34af0dc00d645a5968c58f947/f836f/poppy-rosemary-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4bbf58f34af0dc00d645a5968c58f947/2244e/poppy-rosemary-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4bbf58f34af0dc00d645a5968c58f947/9a128/poppy-rosemary-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Our Poppy has become the life and soul of our home, even though she’s afraid of the cat. She encourages us to discover local beauty spots we never knew existed, and we’ve set ourselves the challenge of exploring more this year and getting to know our country better.
\nPoppy is best friends with our four-year-old, as well as our teenage sons, for whom she acts like a therapy dog. It’s crazy how she seems to be so completely in tune with the kids.
\n\n\nShe seems to be so completely in tune with the kids
\n
Our eldest son and his family adore her too, and marvel at how protective she is over our one-year-old grandson. She always pushes herself between him and the cooker or lays across the stairs in case he gets hurt.
\nTrue to Cockapoo character, she’s as daft as a brush, always bringing you toys to throw. She loves people and is still working out the kinks of dog training. We just couldn’t be without her, and no matter how tough your day, she makes sure you know you’re valued and important.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Poppy and Sam","tags":["Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-poppy-sam","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAQMF/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHZGnE6Sksp5M6mD//EABwQAAEFAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIAARAREgMTIv/aAAgBAQABBQLlK30/bokZWiL1uGj/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIP/aAAgBAgEBPwFj/8QAHRAAAgEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECESAhMVFhkf/aAAgBAQAGPwKPJRSx2aj6ITt//8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAIRAxQXH/2gAIAQEAAT8hKgQCKctrLq0V28h1DowChuN252FdVj//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEFMoAf/EABkRAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBEhMf/aAAgBAwEBPxANEww5X//EABkRAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAERAhMf/aAAgBAgEBPxBbalke4//EAB4QAQACAwEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQVFxkaHR/9oACAEBAAE/ELlwulYf5FDoFLuNjNDE7T+JHbks3qIqwpHx8ru4CZX9aGDeecfEpuBHQz9wt6z/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d8643a664e70ac486b61a170c844f87e/f9913/poppy-sam-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d8643a664e70ac486b61a170c844f87e/f836f/poppy-sam-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d8643a664e70ac486b61a170c844f87e/2244e/poppy-sam-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d8643a664e70ac486b61a170c844f87e/f9913/poppy-sam-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Poppy and Sam are my beach-walking adventure buddies. We live in rural Somerset on the Jurassic Coast and go for walks daily, for both fitness and fun. I’m a keen photographer and amateur fossil hunter (as well as a professional psychiatric nurse).
\n\n\nMy beach-walking adventure buddies
\n
Poppy is a great fan of muddy, wet walks and they both love to run around Bristol Channel Beach, playing in rock pools and waiting for me to turn over rocks to see what we find. It’s great fun chasing eels through rock pools, though we’re yet to actually catch one.
\nPoppy is good at picking up small, flat stones for me – she once even brought me a small ammonite fossil! In the photo, you can see both of them with a 197-million-year-old Ichthyosaur fossil we found while playing on Stolford Beach.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Poppy","tags":["Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-poppy-vicki","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/81bc9a0b73579995852a2590b7a4e498/f9913/poppy-vicki-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/81bc9a0b73579995852a2590b7a4e498/f836f/poppy-vicki-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/81bc9a0b73579995852a2590b7a4e498/2244e/poppy-vicki-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/81bc9a0b73579995852a2590b7a4e498/f9913/poppy-vicki-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Poppy has been my little ray of sunshine through some pretty tough times. She never fails to make me smile, no matter what’s going on in my life. She is also the apple of my husband’s eye, and was a big part of our wedding – she wore her flower collar with pride and posed perfectly for all the photos!
\n\n\nShe makes us laugh every day
\n
We welcomed a baby into our lives in 2019, who has since become a typical toddler. He adores Poppy just as much as we do, and calls her his little ‘Poppy dog’. She really is the gentlest and most understanding dog I’ve ever known. Sadly, she’s battled with arthritis for many years now and has also ruptured her ligament, so we’ve had to swap her field-sprints for some slow and steady pram-walks, but I don’t think she minds too much.
\nShe makes us laugh every day, particularly because she thinks we don’t know that she steals the cat’s biscuits the minute we go to bed – unfortunately for her, she’s clumsy and always knocks the big bowl over, which gives her away every time! Poppy is our crazy pup, always full of energy and ready to play, especially when there are bubbles and balloons involved. She is my constant companion and best friend.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Poppy","tags":["Small","Rescue Dogs","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-poppy-victoria","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1d48e55a8bad35fa003339f56841dc31/f9913/poppy-victoria-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1d48e55a8bad35fa003339f56841dc31/f836f/poppy-victoria-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/1d48e55a8bad35fa003339f56841dc31/2244e/poppy-victoria-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/1d48e55a8bad35fa003339f56841dc31/f9913/poppy-victoria-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Poppy is a puppy farm rescue dog with a lot of physical and behavioural issues. Although she’s a bit crackers, that’s what makes us best friends. She’s the best secret keeper, hill walker and sofa snuggler on cold winter days – I’m so grateful to have her in my life.
\n\n\n\n\nPoppy never judges me. She just listens and loves me unconditionally
\n
From injuries, surgeries and sickness to friendships, relationships, new jobs, holidays, and adventures, we’ve been through so much together. Poppy never judges me. She just listens and loves me unconditionally, and I love her more than I ever realised was possible – I don’t know where I’d be without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Puds","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-puds","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a950b734906ae0d83a5573073875bf30/d8815/puds-header.png","srcSet":"/static/a950b734906ae0d83a5573073875bf30/69585/puds-header.png 200w,\n/static/a950b734906ae0d83a5573073875bf30/497c6/puds-header.png 400w,\n/static/a950b734906ae0d83a5573073875bf30/d8815/puds-header.png 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"After our beloved Westie sadly died, we knew we needed to get another dog. Having done a lot of research, we decided to give a retired Greyhound a home.
\nWe went to visit the kennels to take some of the resident Greyhounds for a walk. Just as we were leaving, we felt as though we were being watched. Through the bars was this sad face looking at us with huge brown eyes. We couldn’t resist turning back and taking her for a walk.
\n\n\nI feel so proud of her!
\n
As we walked, Puds suddenly stopped in her tracks and wouldn’t go any further. Confused, my daughter and I realised that she was waiting for my disabled husband to catch up. Of course, we knew there and then she was the one.
\nThe lovely people at the kennels said that when we saw her, she had only been back for half an hour after a week’s unsuccessful placement. Talk about it being meant to be!
\nWe brought her home a year ago now, and it hasn’t been plain sailing – it’s taken time to teach her that other dogs aren’t the enemy (or her lunch!) – but I feel so proud of her when she sits calmly and plays with other dogs.
\nShe loves her cuddles, sleeps at the bottom of our daughter’s bed and is a brilliant personal trainer. She has enriched our lives and is a perfect example of how great it can be to give a dog a second home, even if they aren’t a puppy anymore.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rags","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rags","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/30ea158e945f8f98982d88ae4b6d35bc/f9913/rags-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/30ea158e945f8f98982d88ae4b6d35bc/f836f/rags-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/30ea158e945f8f98982d88ae4b6d35bc/2244e/rags-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/30ea158e945f8f98982d88ae4b6d35bc/f9913/rags-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Since we got Rags, she’s been through the mill a bit, but you would never know it due to her zest for life!
\n\n\nShe’s the most beautiful and sociable dog
\n
She’s the most beautiful and sociable dog – we can’t walk five yards without someone wanting to fuss her. Her favourite things to do are zoomies in the garden (and if I am feeling brave, the local forest) and digging sand on the beach.
\nShe loves being fussed over by members of the public and having play dates with her doggy friends in the village.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rapha","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rapha","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFA//EABgBAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgME/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHrOjjTcRJKMcHSF1f/xAAbEAACAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADEQQiMv/aAAgBAQABBQKy3KuOzE1qQrKQFfvplvgDAXLz/8QAGREAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEREkFR/9oACAEDAQE/AawSaiq4f//EABoRAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhAREjH/2gAIAQIBAT8BTyakeV//xAAcEAACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARExECESQWH/2gAIAQEABj8CcWcZ9N2dmqwxEs//xAAbEAEAAwEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhQTFhof/aAAgBAQABPyGyOd0IdcmG6VajawEyOfCB5X2NK2sgUe7Eunqf/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABADx4P/xAAZEQEBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhUZH/2gAIAQMBAT8QRsWc0c3l/8QAFxEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBMf/aAAgBAgEBPxCGal0XX//EAB0QAQEAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERACFBUTFhcbH/2gAIAQEAAT8QXUbQgsvJiIaArav49Y4O4h5cdSA3kmU0IVSBv1g9bDHLvZyM3gCn9EDLGBAMy6z/2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/071028c6ece8df79319b153c7d05f6d8/f9913/rapha-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/071028c6ece8df79319b153c7d05f6d8/f836f/rapha-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/071028c6ece8df79319b153c7d05f6d8/2244e/rapha-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/071028c6ece8df79319b153c7d05f6d8/f9913/rapha-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Rapha is a very well-behaved Cockapoo. He’s also my therapist who has helped me through the toughest times!
\nFifteen months ago, I decided to rescue my other dog, Katsi. She’d been chained up and had three pups with her, who are all also in good homes now. I saw the advert on Facebook but wasn’t interested in the pups, as Rapha was already six and it’s a big age gap! I knew he would be better with an adult dog, and long story short, he welcomed her with open paws, even though she was terrified at first. Now, they’re besties and share my bed with mutual respect for each other.
\nRapha is kind even though he’s been attacked several times. The last time was nasty, as both dogs were on lead and the other owner got dragged over to us – she couldn’t stop her very large dog! Now, he’s understandably cautious of other dogs when he’s on his lead, so he growls a little. Off lead, there’s no problem. He’s just a friendly, loving little boy who loves life.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s just a friendly, loving little boy who loves life
\n
I love walking and so do Rapha and Katsi. We often go on walking holidays together. Rapha loves a café or pub on our walks. He’ll drag me in if he thinks it’s time for a snack. At home, when I’ve been out, he runs up to greet me with a shoe, toy or even his bed in his mouth as a gift and he wiggles so much. He’ll panic if he can’t find something to give me!
\nHe’s loving, caring, and a loyal best friend to both me and Katsi. He’s definitely shown her how to be a pet and how to play. We’re working on trust still, but we’re getting there. She trusts him, me and a handful of other people. She also looks to him for guidance as he’s a great role model.
\nHe doesn’t like to wear a coat when it’s wet and will sit and refuse to move until it’s removed. In lockdown, my daughter started making dog accessories to fill the time, and he was the model! He really is a first-class dog in every way.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rebel","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rebel","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4f259e31cc0a5605748602b6379da5a1/f9913/rebel-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4f259e31cc0a5605748602b6379da5a1/f836f/rebel-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4f259e31cc0a5605748602b6379da5a1/2244e/rebel-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4f259e31cc0a5605748602b6379da5a1/f9913/rebel-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rebel is everything to us! As first-time dog owners, we were so nervous about getting a pet, but we knew rescuing a Greyhound was the right choice. Just a few days before we were due to pick him up, he'd been attacked in the rescue centre so came to us full of bites and stitches – a great way to get to know our lovely local vets!
\nJudging by Rebel's scars from his racing days, it's clear he's had a tough life before retirement. But we are determined to teach him to just enjoy life. He now takes full ownership of the sofa and bed, wakes us up by rooing and teeth chattering in the morning, and can't get enough of his toys and snacks.
\nHe’s the most perfect, loving dog who has completely changed our lives for the better. Of course, he still enjoys running in an enclosed field to impress us!
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Red","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-red","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCA//EABcBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBAAP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAcobzgFgpOk6AL//xAAaEAADAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDEBIi/9oACAEBAAEFAnak69FU2Y3uRn//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARH/2gAIAQMBAT8B0h//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAhL/2gAIAQIBAT8ByUf/xAAbEAACAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEQABIVFxsf/aAAgBAQAGPwK8VMnfSh//xAAcEAABAwUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABACExEBFBUZH/2gAIAQEAAT8hIB76VhnwoRdaxEvhOdoAwFkwr//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQ/wAwPv/EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEh/9oACAEDAQE/EEjwqf8A/8QAGREAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBECEx/9oACAECAQE/EFWik4r/xAAdEAEAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMUFhUaGx/9oACAEBAAE/ECzLpQuKGjn6q7+kUFs9S7sxoOITQNkr4tPdXUEgGYGxmF43XM0Cf//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/328ee8d075dd96361322476d42a10915/f9913/red-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/328ee8d075dd96361322476d42a10915/f836f/red-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/328ee8d075dd96361322476d42a10915/2244e/red-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/328ee8d075dd96361322476d42a10915/f9913/red-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nWe are determined to teach him to just enjoy life
\n
Red came to me from a friend whose son had rescued him. I was his fifth home when he was only six months old. He’s very friendly and energetic. However, he came with health issues. He had giardia parasites, campylobacter and round worm. He’d have an upset stomach about a dozen or more times a day.
\nHe also had build-ups of energy, where he’d just run and run. It took a while, but I got him healthy. Then came recall training. We did that on long stretches of riverbank. I even recorded him running at 25mph down the road.
\n\n\n\n\nRed’s always been a Houdini-level escape artist
\n
Red’s always been a Houdini-level escape artist, and he still takes himself off sometimes for some solo exercise, then comes home and waits in the front garden for someone to come and play ball. Whenever he's brought up the drive, he barks and heralds a new friend to play with. He’ll even go into my neighbour’s garden to scratch at her door, asking them to come and play.
\nEvery day, he waits for the postie or anyone visiting and puts his ball through the gate to greet them. Even some people who’ve been frightened of dogs have been charmed by his playful antics. He's also good with small children and takes the ball to their feet to play. He's a happy, joyful, funny, intelligent boy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rembrandt","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rembrandt","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4e0cfa2d864416701074b52c3c5b308c/f9913/rembrandt-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4e0cfa2d864416701074b52c3c5b308c/f836f/rembrandt-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4e0cfa2d864416701074b52c3c5b308c/2244e/rembrandt-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4e0cfa2d864416701074b52c3c5b308c/f9913/rembrandt-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I'm disabled and suffer from sudden falls and vertigo. From a very early age, Rembrandt has been my constant companion. My partner is the one who walks him, trains him and plays boisterous games with him, but it's me Rembrandt sticks with like glue.
\n\n\nIt’s me he sticks with like glue
\n
On the occasions when I've had a fall, he’s sat with me until help has arrived and is super attentive, almost like he's making sure that I'm ok. Of course, like any Labrador puppy, he loves playing and enjoys a game of ‘splashy splashy’ in his paddling pool when it’s warm, as well as playing fetch with his older brother Peewee.
\nRembrandt is such a character. He’ll devour anything that’s edible, and even some things that aren’t, including the sofa cushions and the skirting board! Both of his parents are search dogs, so when we can, we’ll enroll him into puppy school where he’ll learn to be a great sniffer dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Remi","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-remi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2d7c47a73c93bc0d4caa7aa00e3ee5ad/f9913/remi-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2d7c47a73c93bc0d4caa7aa00e3ee5ad/f836f/remi-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2d7c47a73c93bc0d4caa7aa00e3ee5ad/2244e/remi-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2d7c47a73c93bc0d4caa7aa00e3ee5ad/f9913/remi-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My black Lab, Remi, is one of the most affectionate yet mischievous dogs I've ever had! She’s always up for a cuddle and loves to sit beside me on the couch and steal my seat when I move.
\n\n\n\n\nRemi has been very important to me over the last few years
\n
Remi has been very important to me over the last few years, as one of my family members has been struggling with mental health issues. I'm not really someone who likes to talk, so having Remi by my side has really helped me get through it all.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Remus","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-remus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d65a98e5d2ce19c49537744bceffc828/f9913/remus-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d65a98e5d2ce19c49537744bceffc828/f836f/remus-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d65a98e5d2ce19c49537744bceffc828/2244e/remus-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d65a98e5d2ce19c49537744bceffc828/f9913/remus-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We have a new puppy called Remus, named after Remus Lupin from Harry Potter. He’s only been in the family for three weeks but he’s already provided us with many laughs!
\n\n\nHis personality is very cheeky
\n
His favourite thing to do is to nip at the children’s toes, or at the slippers he carries around (even though they’re bigger than him!). He’s also very snuggly, and just wants to be with someone all the time.
\nHis personality is very cheeky, and he’s so confident. He has no fear of any other dog at all – in fact, they seem to be scared of him even though he’s tiny!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rex","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rex","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6ee38d2cd17f2bb82043bde6f369ea86/f9913/rex-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6ee38d2cd17f2bb82043bde6f369ea86/f836f/rex-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6ee38d2cd17f2bb82043bde6f369ea86/2244e/rex-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6ee38d2cd17f2bb82043bde6f369ea86/f9913/rex-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I got Rex at a very low point in my life. I was in the Army, based down south. I felt very alone and was struggling with my mental health and had a silly attempt at taking some pills.
\n\n\nI truly believe he saved my life
\n
I realised the only thing that gave me any joy was the time I spent around dogs. So, I came across someone looking to rehome Rex and I considered whether I could be the person he needed. I believed I was, and it turns out he was exactly what I needed too.
\nI truly believe Rex saved my life. Four years on, I’m out of the Army and I have a fiancée who has two kids, so me and Rex are now part of their family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rex","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rex-emma","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b5c1542da7e6d289dd5689a6a95be2fc/f9913/rex-emma-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b5c1542da7e6d289dd5689a6a95be2fc/f836f/rex-emma-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b5c1542da7e6d289dd5689a6a95be2fc/2244e/rex-emma-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b5c1542da7e6d289dd5689a6a95be2fc/f9913/rex-emma-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"If you ever asked someone to describe the perfect dog, they would be describing my Rex. At six years old, he has sadly had multiple surgeries, including the recent removal of a fibrosarcoma from his mouth. Yet he is still the waggiest, most loving boy you could wish to meet.
\nRex has dragged me through my darkest days. He’s loved me when I felt like the world didn't care, cuddled with me daily and very generously given us all endless sloppy kisses. He is an excellent big brother to two-year-old Elliott and is incredibly patient with him. He has adapted to his role so much better than I could have ever wished for.
\n\n\nHe’s showing us the meaning of true unconditional love, in a way that only a dog can
\n
Rex loves to come out on adventures and holidays with us, and he was even ring bearer at our wedding (although he was wearing a cone of shame with his suit). He was originally nicknamed ‘Shredder’ by my dad as a puppy due to his destructive habits, but his wild ways are no more. However, if there's food on the go, you can still guarantee he’s nearby, in true Labrador form.
\nTo put it simply, Rex is just a joy to be around. He is a positive influence simply by being himself. He’s forever making us all smile and showing us the meaning of true unconditional love, in a way that only a dog can.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rhubarb","tags":["Family","Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rhubarb","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e357be7f00f236031a8ab5c47cef3622/f9913/rhubarb-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e357be7f00f236031a8ab5c47cef3622/f836f/rhubarb-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e357be7f00f236031a8ab5c47cef3622/2244e/rhubarb-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e357be7f00f236031a8ab5c47cef3622/f9913/rhubarb-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rhubarb, our Cocker Spaniel, was born to one of our other Cockers Poppi. Sadly, she only had two pups and Rhubarb was the only one to survive.
\nRhubarb became a firm favourite in our household and quickly settled in with his mum and his ‘Uncle Bruce’, another Cocker eight years his senior. He followed Bruce everywhere and loved nothing better than to snuggle up with him. One day, we had gone out and left our daughter asleep in bed, with the back door left open for the dogs to go in and out. Rhubarb started barking and running around our daughter’s room. He wouldn’t stop, so she followed him out to find Bruce in the Koi fish pond!
\n\n\nRhubarb had saved his life
\n
The gate had been left open and Bruce had fallen in and couldn’t get out. He was swimming out of his depth and tiring quickly – he was getting old and had poor eyesight, which didn’t help. Luckily, my daughter is a veterinary nurse and she quickly pulled him out and put him in a warm shower. Rhubarb had saved his life.
\nThankfully, Bruce suffered no long term consequences from his adventure and lived until he was 13. Rhubarb has continued to be a wonderful friend and constant companion to us all since. He loves playing with his toys and running around the estuary beach near our home. He will always be our little hero.
\nHe’s on the far right in the photo, with his mum on the left and ‘Uncle Bruce’ in the middle.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rhian and William","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rhian-william","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7c88241bf4c9417762a70973bd46da77/f9913/william-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7c88241bf4c9417762a70973bd46da77/f836f/william-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7c88241bf4c9417762a70973bd46da77/2244e/william-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7c88241bf4c9417762a70973bd46da77/f9913/william-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We visited Llys Nini RSPCA rescue centre back in the Summer holidays, and instantly fell in love with William the Corgi. We’re told that William and his brother Harry had been found wandering the streets of Swansea. He was extremely unkempt and malnourished.
\n\n\nHe is thriving!
\n
After lots of socialisation visits, William finally came to his forever home a few weeks later. As you can see, he is thriving! He’s now a healthy, happy little dog and entertains us every day. As we live near lots of beaches, he enjoys long beach walks (although he’s yet to get his paws wet in the sea!) and cosy evenings in front of the fire.
\nMy daughter was diagnosed with a chronic condition in May and William never fails to cheer her up on her down days. They are the best of friends. William really is the best dog ever.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Riley","tags":["Adult","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-riley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f5b6038b7454221e39f324cb906f9068/f9913/riley-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f5b6038b7454221e39f324cb906f9068/f836f/riley-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f5b6038b7454221e39f324cb906f9068/2244e/riley-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f5b6038b7454221e39f324cb906f9068/f9913/riley-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog Riley is the love of my life. From the moment we met him, he was so quirky. He tried to run off down the farm rather than say hello to his new owners, but he still fell asleep in our laps on the way home.
\nHe is such a lovable dog, always asking for attention or cuddles and he plays just like a toddler! He’s helped our family through so much. For instance, when he was a puppy, I had broken my arm and he helped it heal quicker because I was so eager to play with him that I started regaining the use of the muscles I’d lost. So much so that I didn’t even need physio after healing because Riley had already helped me gain my muscle back.
\n\n\nHe’s helped our family through so much
\n
My mom has also had major surgery twice and both times he was there for her, cuddling her and being gentle when she comes home, and watching her every move when she is ill – this includes warning everyone about the postman!
\nHe sounds like a very large dog from his bark but anyone who has met Riley would know he’s very lovable. All he wants to do is say hello and give cuddles to anyone. He is so special and a big part of our family. He gets gifts at Christmas and on his birthday and signs cards for the rest of the family for their birthdays. He is always so energetic and happy, which just makes you smile. Riley is my positive outlook on the world, and I don’t know where I would be without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Riley","tags":["Adult","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-riley-lisa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b409c160c36f20d515975d6e10bacca5/f9913/riley-lisa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b409c160c36f20d515975d6e10bacca5/f836f/riley-lisa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b409c160c36f20d515975d6e10bacca5/2244e/riley-lisa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b409c160c36f20d515975d6e10bacca5/f9913/riley-lisa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Riley is my best friend, and the most loveable, funny dog you could wish to meet. We brought him home when he was a tiny puppy to make sure he would be comfortable with my young niece and nephew.
\nHe's so attentive and caring. He loves other dogs and people, especially my now eight-year-old niece and six-year-old nephew. We walk every day, which I need to do as I’ve had back problems for more than 20 years, and it keeps me moving.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s the most loveable, funny dog you could wish to meet
\n
Riley waits at the window for me to come home from work and always lets me know when it's time for his walk. We often visit my mum, who lives a few minutes away, and he pops in to check the house is okay when we get there.
\nHe’s struggled with allergies since he was a baby. They’ve made him quite ill at times, but he’s never let that get him down and he's always up for an adventure. After lots of tests, we now know what to avoid to keep him happy and healthy.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Riley","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-riley-rachel","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b3c645e0a640475a957902b87a8753a5/f9913/riley-rachel-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b3c645e0a640475a957902b87a8753a5/f836f/riley-rachel-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b3c645e0a640475a957902b87a8753a5/2244e/riley-rachel-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b3c645e0a640475a957902b87a8753a5/f9913/riley-rachel-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog Riley has an epic tale to tell. He was rescued as a puppy when he was found running through the flames of wildfires in Cyprus. He then spent almost a year in kennels before being fostered by a couple and their two dogs. That’s when we found their adoption post on Facebook and began the process.
\n\n\nWe’ll keep on loving him for the rest of his life
\n
This dog has been through so much and yet he is truly amazing. We have had him three weeks and we’ve already made so many memories. He gets up every morning and is such a happy boy. He doesn't let his past affect him. He just keeps moving forward.
\nWe love him so much already and have taken him for lots of walks, enjoyed fun times at the agility park and much more. He doesn't always know how to say hello without barking and lunging but is getting better when meeting new dogs. There’s no aggression. He's just full of love and we’ll keep on loving him for the rest of his life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rio","tags":["Rescue Dog","Class of 19/23","Support Dog","Adult"],"slug":"meet-rio","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e35a68a4e0085c79cf71513ce6dbb646/f9913/rio-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e35a68a4e0085c79cf71513ce6dbb646/f836f/rio-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e35a68a4e0085c79cf71513ce6dbb646/2244e/rio-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e35a68a4e0085c79cf71513ce6dbb646/f9913/rio-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rio is a rescue dog who was found as a stray in Wales around eight years ago. He got taken to a high-kill shelter where he would have been put down after 14 days if no one claimed him. Luckily, a worker at the shelter contacted a rescue centre who took him in.
\nI rehomed Rio after seeing his beautiful picture on the rescue centre’s web page. When I met him for the first time, he lay down at my feet and looked up at me with these big brown eyes and I decided then and there he was the dog for me. Rio had obviously been abused in the past as he would cower at the sight of boots and sticks, and would even be frightened of pats on his head. With patience and love, he is now no longer living in fear and enjoys a life of luxury!
\n\n\nRio is the gentlest, goofiest soul there is
\n
Rio is the gentlest, goofiest soul there is. He very quickly became my best friend and has greatly supported my mental and physical health over the past eight years. Throughout the pandemic, he kept me company and never failed to cheer me up even when things got really tough.
\nAround six years ago, I came across the Pets as Therapy charity and I decided to see if Rio would be a suitable candidate to become a PAT dog. He passed the assessment with flying colours and he now accompanies me to school once a week where he supports children with literacy difficulties and those who are struggling with their mental health. Crucially, his visits have also taught children how to treat animals with respect, how to care for them and he has even helped five pupils overcome their fear of dogs.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ringo","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ringo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b1f67cc1459fcae91d0d68c37ac5e16e/f9913/ringo-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b1f67cc1459fcae91d0d68c37ac5e16e/f836f/ringo-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b1f67cc1459fcae91d0d68c37ac5e16e/2244e/ringo-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b1f67cc1459fcae91d0d68c37ac5e16e/f9913/ringo-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Ringo isn't just any dog, although I'm sure every dog owner says that! Ringo is actually my dual-purpose guide dog, which means he is trained as both my guide dog and my hearing dog, as I am visually and hearing impaired. There aren't many dual-purpose guide dogs in the UK because it involves so much learning and training that not all dogs are able to do it.
\n\n\nTrained as both my guide dog and my hearing dog
\n
I've had Ringo for 14 months now and what amazes me about him is that he still grows and learns every single day. For example, I drop things on a regular basis, and he's learnt to pick them up and put them in my hand without any training. He's also a very strong dog – I have poor balance because of my ears, so when I start to feel wobbly on my feet, Ringo will stand still and help me until I’m surefooted again. He also knows how to alert me if my phone rings or the doorbell goes, in case I haven’t heard them.
\nRingo may only be three years old, but he’s got a very wise head on his young shoulders. That being said, he’s also got a playful side, and when he’s not helping me he acts more like a puppy! We spend nearly every waking moment together, and I adore him more than words can say. He's loyal, faithful, happy and loves me unconditionally.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet River","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-river","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/94ec49e310e1031718f2fc6264e85502/f9913/river-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/94ec49e310e1031718f2fc6264e85502/f836f/river-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/94ec49e310e1031718f2fc6264e85502/2244e/river-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/94ec49e310e1031718f2fc6264e85502/f9913/river-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"River is my little adventure buddy and inspiration.
\nMy goal is to enrich her life and we often embark on UK adventures together, exploring our surroundings and taking part in activities! She’s motivated me to be better and keeps me active on our daily walks and hikes.
\n\n\n\n\nShe truly is my muse
\n
I’ve even published a book inspired by one of our trips – written as though it’s from her point of view. This opened up my creativity and allowed me to face a challenge I thought would be impossible due to my dyslexia.
\nShe’s also my personal photography model and we often go out to scenic places and have photoshoots. She truly is my muse. Without River, I believe my life would be quite boring and lack adventure. She’s opened up so many opportunities for me, which I will be forever grateful for.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ripley","tags":["Adult","Family"],"slug":"meet-ripley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0b596b73925d0feda1eaa2b04f904f8a/f9913/ripley-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b596b73925d0feda1eaa2b04f904f8a/f836f/ripley-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/0b596b73925d0feda1eaa2b04f904f8a/2244e/ripley-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/0b596b73925d0feda1eaa2b04f904f8a/f9913/ripley-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ripley, our Hungarian Vizsla, holds a special place in our hearts because of her boundless energy, unwavering loyalty and gentle nature.
\nShe's always ready for an adventure, bringing joy and laughter into our lives with her playful antics.
\n\n\n\n\nShe’s a cherished member of our family
\n
Ripley's affectionate demeanour makes her an irreplaceable companion. She’s super intuitive when it comes emotions, too – offering us comfort and love in times of need.
\nShe’s more than just a pet, she’s a cherished member of our family whose presence makes every day brighter.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rocco","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rocco","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAgP/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABn7zvU3ESsysicWf/xAAcEAADAAEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMAEBESFCL/2gAIAQEAAQUC7NABdsW5YMc39TooVByeklTT/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAR/9oACAEDAQE/ASP/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAcEAACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARITECQVH/2gAIAQEABj8C2Z78L1DWCmcUWrj/xAAdEAEAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhQTFREGGR/9oACAEBAAE/IcHk9pDPF+ksJy0EuSIqWB1uUlpOoKvCzKFvfj//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEN/H/wD/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARIP/aAAgBAwEBPxBh/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQAQ/9oACAECAQE/ECd//8QAGxABAQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBYVH/2gAIAQEAAT8QT2KSBmE0iLYAndwwxW0JzmjsNX2ZSaoEa9YGok+H3GJdJnOVVqDY7F+eYrref//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2a5d321e59de787d17838ca2d77b349b/f9913/rocco-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2a5d321e59de787d17838ca2d77b349b/f836f/rocco-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2a5d321e59de787d17838ca2d77b349b/2244e/rocco-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2a5d321e59de787d17838ca2d77b349b/f9913/rocco-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My wife and I were approaching our fifties and had decided it was the perfect time to get a dog. After a lot of research, we found Rocco. He\nlooks like a Labrador who has the white spots of a Springer plus the tail of a Husky – and the energy of all three!
\n\n\nBump the chair with his bottom
\n
We’ve become a lot more mobile thanks to Rocco and his antics. If I’m relaxing in my recliner and he wants to play, Rocco will walk past and bump the chair with his bottom. He won’t stop until I give him attention! If, for some reason, we haven’t given Rocco enough of a walk, he’ll start going crazy at about 10pm to let us know he needs some more exercise. He’ll even grab his toys and dismantle his bed to get your attention.
\nOur fifties are full of activity and adventure, and it’s all thanks to Rocco.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ringo","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ringo-sarah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East of England","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b63981f22c3cdc8ad4e449b9dc1a4260/f9913/ringo-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b63981f22c3cdc8ad4e449b9dc1a4260/f836f/ringo-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b63981f22c3cdc8ad4e449b9dc1a4260/2244e/ringo-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b63981f22c3cdc8ad4e449b9dc1a4260/f9913/ringo-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ringo is my eight-year-old rescue Greyhound. He is a very kind, loving dog and has really helped me with my mental health. We go on a lot of walks together, which has also improved my fitness.
\n\n\nReally helped me with my mental health
\n
Up until the end of last year, he was a blood donor at the Royal Vet College, and I'm so proud of him for helping out other dogs in need. He is a wonderful companion to me and such a happy lad. As an ex-racer, he has a lot of energy, but with a lot of love and training he will now happily and calmly share a sofa with any of our three cats.
\nHe really has been my rock, especially during these strange times.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rocco","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Funny"],"slug":"meet-rocco-claire","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/057c2896f4119137b953fc1a69c414f7/f9913/rocco-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/057c2896f4119137b953fc1a69c414f7/f836f/rocco-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/057c2896f4119137b953fc1a69c414f7/2244e/rocco-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/057c2896f4119137b953fc1a69c414f7/f9913/rocco-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"If you've ever wondered what it's like to have a tiny, snorting bundle of joy glued to your side, let me introduce you to Rocco, our French Bulldog. We rescued him during the pandemic over three years ago, and life hasn't been the same since – in the best way possible, of course.
\nRocco is like a little furry therapist, minus the fees. He's got this knack for making even the dreariest days bright with his quirky habits and boundless affection. Take his snoring, for example. Some might find it annoying, but to me, it's like a white noise machine with a heartbeat. There's something oddly comforting about knowing he's snoozing away nearby, dreaming of fields and footballs.
\nAh, the footballs. You should see him in action! For a dog with legs as short as his, Rocco can sprint across a field like he's auditioning for the next World Cup. He chases that ball with a passion that could put any professional footballer to shame. And when he's not being an athletic superstar, he's a world-class cuddler. Whether I'm watching TV, working on my laptop, or just sitting on the couch, Rocco is right there, either at my feet or attempting to lick my legs like they're a five-star meal.
\n\n\n\n\nIf you ever need a reminder that love can transform, just spend a day with Rocco
\n
Rocco's past wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. He wasn't treated well in his last home, which makes his love and trust even more special. He's come to adore his new family life with us – my husband Mark, our two boys Finlay and Ted, and his sausage dog brother, River. Yes, that's right, Rocco has a sausage dog brother. Together, they form the dynamic duo of cuteness and chaos.
\nOne of Rocco's favourite activities is heading to the beach. Picture this: a French Bulldog running through the sand, ears flopping, tail wagging, pure joy on his face. It's a sight that never fails to make us laugh. And when we're all together, away in our caravan, Rocco's happiness reaches new heights. He loves being surrounded by his people, and his contentment is contagious.
\nIn short, Rocco is more than just a pet; he's a positive influence, a constant companion, and a source of endless entertainment. From his snoring symphonies to his enthusiastic leg-licking, Rocco has brought immeasurable joy into our lives. And if you ever need a reminder that love can transform, just spend a day with Rocco. He'll show you how it's done, one wag and one snore at a time.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rocket","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rocket","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/51b90c58e8b16b1d520f8fbaf772ab51/f9913/rocket-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/51b90c58e8b16b1d520f8fbaf772ab51/f836f/rocket-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/51b90c58e8b16b1d520f8fbaf772ab51/2244e/rocket-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/51b90c58e8b16b1d520f8fbaf772ab51/f9913/rocket-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have adopted three dogs in my life, but Rocket is the first I’ve had since she was a puppy.Bringing her up has been one of my greatest achievements.I've never felt as though I'm particularly good at anything, but I'm so proud of this little bundle of fluff.She is my go-anywhere, do-anything dog and I wouldn't change a thing about her.
\n\n\nShe is so willing to learn
\n
Rocket loves sports and adventures, especially long walks on the South Downs. She is also very caring and works as a therapy dog with Canine Concern, as well as being a brilliant cousin to my nieces, who absolutely adore her. Rocket is always willing to learn, whether it be new tricks or even activities such as paddle boarding.
\nMy other dogs have grown strong and confident and that brings me so much joy, but Rocket is special because she’s helped me to feel as thoughI’ve achieved great things.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rocky","tags":["Adorable","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rocky","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a503f739e38f4ee3c56ce9250e60f8af/f9913/rocky-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a503f739e38f4ee3c56ce9250e60f8af/f836f/rocky-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a503f739e38f4ee3c56ce9250e60f8af/2244e/rocky-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a503f739e38f4ee3c56ce9250e60f8af/f9913/rocky-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rocky is our fourth rescue dog. He is extremely mild-mannered and is friendly to every person and other dog he meets. He’s also very particular, and likes to go on a walk with each member of our family individually – which in fairness, has been a blessing in disguise during these lockdown months.
\nWe live right beside a park – which he loves – but he has a mind of his own when it comes to which route we take to get there. Some days, he’ll go straight to the park and on others, he’ll lead us on a wild goose chase before we eventually get there.
\n\n\nLikes to go on walks with each of us individually
\n
He loves to lie on the floor and have one of us lie down beside him and stroke him gently. He’s also very smart, and always knows what time of day it is – we think it’s so he can remind us that it’s time for his next walk!
\nWith Rocky around, you’ll never be bored or miserable. He’s really made our house a home.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Taryn and Rocco","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23","Small"],"slug":"meet-taryn-rocco","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cad85d764b001ad12b9dd18a4793a906/f9913/rocco-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cad85d764b001ad12b9dd18a4793a906/f836f/rocco-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cad85d764b001ad12b9dd18a4793a906/2244e/rocco-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cad85d764b001ad12b9dd18a4793a906/f9913/rocco-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Shortly after Rocco was gifted to me as a Valentine’s Day present, I underwent major knee surgery, resulting in me having to learn to walk again rather than devoting my full attention to my puppy. As I regained my mobility, Rocco was a vital part of my recovery, providing unconditional love and support along with companionship when I was back on my feet.
\n\n\nRocco was a vital part of my recovery
\n
Earlier this year, as a personal challenge I committed to walking 100,000 steps in seven days for charity. It doesn’t sound like a lot but it was incredibly challenging for me to do, and my hound was with me every step of the way. He joined in the early morning walks when he would prefer to be snoozing in bed, he trotted alongside me each lunchtime delaying his set time for dog biscuits, and he continued with me every evening exploring each new location I took him to. At the end of the week, I had done 4000 extra steps and Rocco had earned consecutive exercise badges on his doggy fitness tracker attached to his collar.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rocky","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rocky-helen","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/721b60a9a1694f82a13c27eb041f714e/f9913/rocky-helen-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/721b60a9a1694f82a13c27eb041f714e/f836f/rocky-helen-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/721b60a9a1694f82a13c27eb041f714e/2244e/rocky-helen-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/721b60a9a1694f82a13c27eb041f714e/f9913/rocky-helen-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rocky is my sister’s Corgi. My sister has suffered with asthma and related illnesses for a long time. Sometimes, things get so bad she doesn’t even want to leave the house. Rocky has had a hugely positive impact on her life, as now she loves to go on numerous walks a day with him, even when she isn’t feeling her best.
\nRocky is the friendliest dog I know and always has a smile on his face, which is returned by everyone who meets him. He’s so sociable that he’s made friends in the local park, which is great because it means my sister has too. The pair of them are quite well known in our local area.
\n\n\nHe’s made friends in the local park
\n
After 12 months, we finally taught him how to walk up the stairs, as his little legs are not the best for this. He has since gained confidence and is so cheeky he even jumps up on the sofa, for which my sister blames me! He likes to keep us on our toes, and once surprised my sister by hiding inside her bed – she only realised when she climbed in!
\nRocky is wonderful company and I know my sister would not be without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rocky","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rocky-shirley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAQP/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABy3piNiBHQ8BX/8QAHBAAAgIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxESEwQi/9oACAEBAAEFAmrDWpVp6GOI1Wzjr2f6OYDGY5//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAdEAACAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARESAjEgIWJx/9oACAEBAAY/AsV5MERBa8fC7S60Trh//8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIUFRMXGx/9oACAEBAAE/IWlzOtlUW58J60bGoVXQxylYle6QOHFDbYg6R//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQbyj8/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIP/aAAgBAwEBPxAf/8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQESH/2gAIAQIBAT8Q0pz/AP/EABwQAQEAAwEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExYUGhsf/aAAgBAQABPxBy+QqUM7jFp2i+sQ4aNsZfwOy0rYa5iJVoh3SAznc8vSrn3iAg2OfON2cX9x2CDn//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d988e92a74f65983763bb28d4c3f7c65/f9913/rocky-shirley-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d988e92a74f65983763bb28d4c3f7c65/f836f/rocky-shirley-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d988e92a74f65983763bb28d4c3f7c65/2244e/rocky-shirley-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d988e92a74f65983763bb28d4c3f7c65/f9913/rocky-shirley-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My husband and I used to manage a private residence. It was a Tudor farmhouse set in almost 30 acres. We started working there when our dog Rocky was just 12 weeks old. At first, he would chase birds, squirrels and bunnies around the lawns, but on one particular occasion he actually followed a rabbit all the way into its warren. There I was, out in the pouring rain searching all over for him, only to see him clamber out of the rabbit hole like something out of Alice in Wonderland!
\nRocky lives for adventure. He used to make it his mission to save the cockerels from foxes, who he would chase away from his feathery friends. Once, he even managed to pry a bird straight out of a fox’s mouth.
\n\n\nRocky lives for adventure
\n
Of course, Rocky is also extremely protective of his human companions. Last year, we were awoken really early one cold February morning by the sound of Rocky barking. We woke up and told him to stop, but within a moment he was at it again. Something didn’t feel right as this really wasn’t like him, so my husband got up and looked through the curtains. He realised the barn door was ajar, so I grabbed the phone and rang the police – it turns out we had intruders. Without Rocky to wake us up, who knows what could have happened that night.
\nIn March we were made redundant and had to move back to our property in Wales. Losing my job and my ties to the cottage has been really hard for me, but thankfully, I have Rocky to keep me company and take me on long, relaxing walks along the beachfront.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roco","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-roco","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5d24fba0fc4c1bdf5363ebf891deb2f9/f9913/roco-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5d24fba0fc4c1bdf5363ebf891deb2f9/f836f/roco-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5d24fba0fc4c1bdf5363ebf891deb2f9/2244e/roco-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5d24fba0fc4c1bdf5363ebf891deb2f9/f9913/roco-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Roco the rescue pup joined our family when he was 18 months old. When he came to live with us he was very excitable and really bouncy. He is a Labrador Husky cross with a 'wonky' ear (one sticks up and one hangs down). He craved fuss, attention and love, and so that’s exactly what I gave him.
\nMy partner Graham has had some serious health issues in the past, and eventually had to spend a few days in hospital. When he came home, Roco was delighted to see him, but clearly sensed he was not well so was very gentle around him, which must have been hard for him given his excitable nature.
\n\n\nRoco saved Graham’s life that night
\n
One evening, Graham headed to bed early as he was very tired. I sat watching TV downstairs and Roco stayed with me. After a short while he disappeared upstairs, and then came back a few minutes later and stood looking at me. Several times, he went to foot of the stairs, looked up and then came to me and nudged my leg. Eventually, I followed him as he trotted ahead of me, until I got to our bedroom and found Graham collapsed on the bed – there was clearly something very wrong.
\nRoco – normally bouncy and full of life – sat quietly at the foot of the bed, as I called for an ambulance. A couple of times he came over to me and leaned against my leg for comfort. Roco saved Graham's life that night. The ambulance crew said he was in a bad way and was later diagnosed with a serious chest infection. I will never forget what my dog did to get me upstairs that evening.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rodney","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rodney","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/581e2d62b3d1b946ea576cdde38b8267/f9913/rodney-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/581e2d62b3d1b946ea576cdde38b8267/f836f/rodney-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/581e2d62b3d1b946ea576cdde38b8267/2244e/rodney-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/581e2d62b3d1b946ea576cdde38b8267/f9913/rodney-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My Golden Retriever, Rodney, is one in a million. Although he’s nine years old, he acts like he’s only nine months old. He still loves going for a run and adores a swim in the sea – he also loves a quick dunk in a muddy puddle!
\n\n\nA wagging tail and a smiling face
\n
As an A&E nurse working through the Covid-19 pandemic, Rodney has really supported me. Every day when I get home from the end of a shift he’s there, with a wagging tail and a smiling face.
\nSome people have kept their distance since finding out where I work, but Rodney has stayed with me, lying on my knee and always keeping me company whenever I’m around him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rogue","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Brave & loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rogue","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c188ff9ddaf50cf38f1b07f52a80c374/9a128/rogue-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c188ff9ddaf50cf38f1b07f52a80c374/f836f/rogue-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c188ff9ddaf50cf38f1b07f52a80c374/2244e/rogue-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c188ff9ddaf50cf38f1b07f52a80c374/9a128/rogue-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"I lost my hair in 2017 due to alopecia and developed chronic fatigue syndrome in the same year as a result of severe stress. It was a real blow, as I used to be outdoorsy and sporty, and I was left spending a lot of my time indoors and isolated.
\nI’d wanted a dog for years, but my working life meant it was never really possible for me to get one. In February 2018, I finally convinced my partner that a dog would be great for my confidence, for my mental health, for companionship and to encourage me to get outside again. Shortly after, we drove two hours to Leeds and back to bring home Rogue, our German Shorthaired Pointer.
\n\n\nShe even brings me the post
\n
She’s given me a reason to get out of bed and to get outside (twice a day, every day for at least an hour). I’ve trained her to pick things up and carry them for me including light shopping bags from the car, and she even brings me the post.
\nA while ago, we moved to a house with a two-acre garden and completed a two-year renovation. At every stage she was there to “help” the tradesmen and to “quality inspect” any materials arriving on site by running off down the garden with them and throwing them around in the air. She was checking their sturdiness for the job, clearly.
\nNow the house is finished she spends most of her time with me in the garden. I’m planning to start a veg bed and flower patch, so she helps by digging holes – just not always where I want them!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roky","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-roky","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/48a7682a60ebfc5179fb140810d168e4/f9913/roky-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/48a7682a60ebfc5179fb140810d168e4/f836f/roky-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/48a7682a60ebfc5179fb140810d168e4/2244e/roky-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/48a7682a60ebfc5179fb140810d168e4/f9913/roky-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I can't help but smile when I see my buddy, Roky.There's something about coming home and opening the door to a burst of energy powering towards me that makes my heart sing and melts away all the negativity from my day.
\n\n\nHelps me to get out and connect with the world
\n
Not only is Roky good for my soul, but he's good for my health too. He gives my life a structure and makes sure I never lack purpose. He helps me to get out and connect with the world around me.
\nHe's such a beautiful dog that people often stop to ask me about him. Thisis both a blessing and a curse.I get to meet so many new people, but he'salso very protective of me, and that means he's not always as interested in those new people as they are in him.
\nRoky doesn't like little dogs who are cuter than him, or anyone dressed in bright colours. It makes putting his raincoat on a nightmare!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rolo","tags":["Adorable","Adult","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rolo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ee56de266856e03666cbe6e3f63cbdfc/f9913/rolo-laura-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ee56de266856e03666cbe6e3f63cbdfc/f836f/rolo-laura-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ee56de266856e03666cbe6e3f63cbdfc/2244e/rolo-laura-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ee56de266856e03666cbe6e3f63cbdfc/f9913/rolo-laura-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rolo came into our lives about 16 months ago. We had wanted a dog for a while, but the time was never right, with my partner working in home care and me working for the NHS. Lockdown changed all that. It made us realise that it’s the smaller things in life that matter most, so along came Rolo.
\nSince getting Rolo, our lives have changed drastically for the better. We really can’t remember life without him. The weekends before he came along were filled with the same old things – going to cinema, staying home with a takeaway, or going to a friend’s for drinks. Now on the weekends, we look forward to exploring this fantastic country we live in. We’ve seen more of Scotland in the short time we’ve had him than in all the years we’ve been living here.
\n\n\nSince getting Rolo, our lives have changed drastically for the better
\n
We love nothing more than getting up on a Saturday morning, going for a lovely drive and hiking round the lochs or up the hills. On the road home, we’ll stop at a wee dog-friendly pub for a bit to eat. We have made many friends because of Rolo, and he has his own circle of canine friends.
\nRolo is a German Shepherd, so not the smallest dog ever. He absolutely loves life and is an absolute character. He’s one and a half now, and full of cheek at times, but we wouldn’t change him for the world. He does like to answer back now and again when he does naughty things, but he is a teenager after all!
\nThe best part is the greeting you get when you come home from a hard day’s work. The joy and excitement in his eyes say it all. It really is unconditional love. Life before Rolo was okay and we were happy, but life with him is much more amazing. He’s had such a positive influence that I know both of us will be eternally grateful for.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rolo","tags":["Puppy","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rolo-beth","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/dd13f62eaa2ef9ea0cc3fb958a74c055/f9913/rolo-beth-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dd13f62eaa2ef9ea0cc3fb958a74c055/f836f/rolo-beth-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/dd13f62eaa2ef9ea0cc3fb958a74c055/2244e/rolo-beth-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/dd13f62eaa2ef9ea0cc3fb958a74c055/f9913/rolo-beth-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Having lived on my own for a while I decided I needed a companion, a buddy, to wake up to, to keep me company. As a child I had a cocker spaniel for 16 years so I knew I wanted another as I love their characters and that they are always happy.
\nMy everyday hero came to live with me in December 2022 at eight weeks old. From that day my life changed from dull, quiet and mundane to pure joy! Rolo is my cocker spaniel. A handsome, chunky, soft, fluffy ball of mischief.
\nAlthough he’s still really only a baby he is so clever and has mastered basic commands quite quickly, as long as there is a tasty treat as a reward. He is super friendly, loves meeting people and dogs on our walks. His favourite pastime is lying on his back in a cardboard box playing with his squeaky chicken – that’s when he’s not chasing round the garden with my parents’ puppy, who happens to be his sister! He is also rather partial to noisily chomping on a carrot, which always makes me chuckle.
\nPuppy training classes are next on his list but I’m sure my adorable, funny fluffball will be top of the class. Rolo makes me very happy as he makes me laugh every day and I can’t imagine life without him.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roma","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-roma","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f4a8ea82f0d55f7d27de58e08bf45182/f9913/roma-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f4a8ea82f0d55f7d27de58e08bf45182/f836f/roma-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f4a8ea82f0d55f7d27de58e08bf45182/2244e/roma-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f4a8ea82f0d55f7d27de58e08bf45182/f9913/roma-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nA handsome, chunky, soft , fluffy ball of mischief
\n
It’s sometimes hard to put into words what Roma means to me. She’s a dog from Romania, an ex-street dog to be precise.
\nI’ve never met a dog quite like Roma. She’s very deep, if that makes sense. She notices the slightest change and she remembers something for months! Once we found a dead squirrel on the path, so we avoided that walk for a couple of weeks. When we did return she went straight to the spot where that squirrel was!
\n\n\nNow we dance together
\n
It took her a year to trust me when I first got her, and for us to truly bond. She taught me so much and continues to teach me every day. She even got me to be a dog trainer! That got me out and about meeting people. Now we dance together in front of a crowd, in heelwork to music competitions! In our first ever competition, we came fourth out of 17 other competitors.
\nIt’s not always been easy. She came with baggage, but then again so did I. together we muddled our way through it all to end up here. Today I wouldn’t be without Roma, and I hope she feels the same.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roo","tags":["Adorable","Family","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-roo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/64c2c68f845bced7a46d16cc9ebb6002/f9913/roo-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/64c2c68f845bced7a46d16cc9ebb6002/f836f/roo-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/64c2c68f845bced7a46d16cc9ebb6002/2244e/roo-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/64c2c68f845bced7a46d16cc9ebb6002/f9913/roo-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Roo is a rescue dog. We adopted him as we felt we could give him a wonderful life here on the Isle of Wight, with all the beaches, parks and the countryside close by.
\nWhen we first met Roo, he was hiding under a coffee table. He had sad little eyes and his nose was just poking out. I put my hand down and he sniffed it and licked me. At that stage, I didn’t know he only had two legs, but I did know that he would soon become part of my family.
\n\n\nLiving the happy life all dogs should
\n
We wanted to give him the very best life possible despite his injuries and disabilities, so I spent weeks researching what tools could help him to help. We ended up purchasing a purpose-made wheelchair from America. It took him a few weeks to get used to it, but now he’s so happy. Roo loves nothing more than running along the beach, chasing birds and playing with my two Huskies, living the happy life all dogs should.
\nMy dog is strong, loving and loyal, and reminds me every day that life is what you make it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roscoe","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-roscoe","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/731b00a5a4ac1879e008e1d240a6fc31/f9913/roscoe-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/731b00a5a4ac1879e008e1d240a6fc31/f836f/roscoe-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/731b00a5a4ac1879e008e1d240a6fc31/2244e/roscoe-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/731b00a5a4ac1879e008e1d240a6fc31/f9913/roscoe-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We’ve had Roscoe since he was 10 weeks old. He is a bundle of fun and trouble all rolled into one! He’s chewed pretty much everything in my house, but every time I look into his big, brown eyes I can’t stay angry for long.
\n\n\nA bundle of fun and trouble all rolled into one
\n
Throughout lockdown he has kept our family entertained by learning new tricks and just being his happy self. If you’re sad, he comes over and sits on your lap to cheer you up, even though he’s a huge Labrador!
\nRoscoe is a ball of energy and jumps from the chair to the sofa doing zoomies, knocking over anything and everything in his path. He loves his ball and also enjoys going for a swim. Our dog is a hugely important member of our family, and everyone who meets him wants to keep him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rosie","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rosie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/22a6363bbb61891d4677ad20ef027ba4/f9913/rosie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/22a6363bbb61891d4677ad20ef027ba4/f836f/rosie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/22a6363bbb61891d4677ad20ef027ba4/2244e/rosie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/22a6363bbb61891d4677ad20ef027ba4/f9913/rosie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Rosie, who was born on the summer solstice, lights up the room without saying a word. She’s at her happiest when she’s running along the beach chasing the birds, though she never actually catches any. Rosie loves to skip over rocks and never slips, no matter how much seaweed there is.
\n\n\nShe’s ginger, fluffy and loyal
\n
She’s ginger, fluffy and loyal, and our whole family absolutely adores her. All of us have a picture of her saved as our screensaver, and she’s definitely the favourite family member. She’s taught us love, loyalty and trust and that’s something we will always be grateful for.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rosie","tags":["Adorable","Senior","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rosie-laura","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDBP/EABcBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAgP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAd8c54vUgWcGaAn/xAAbEAABBQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDERIQIf/aAAgBAQABBQLa1HMrzaj3eRpgtCuWf//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACD/2gAIAQMBAT8BH//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERABAS/9oACAECAQE/AWVNG//EABkQAAMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABECExQf/aAAgBAQAGPwLhlGo65//EABsQAQADAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExEFHw/9oACAEBAAE/IfSgpowOT4sUydauEdGvPEhNhtosn//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQPweB/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAESD/2gAIAQMBAT8QGP/EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEGH/2gAIAQIBAT8QCSze/wD/xAAeEAEBAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMUFRYYGRwf/aAAgBAQABPxBJKCFu8YeEKltrjTQwBkQXiOHazFrh/O9ZbdftzTV1i4gK1nb7xCE+TP/Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/dfb351ccb6382b00f211e8d8b88acd47/f9913/rosie-laura-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dfb351ccb6382b00f211e8d8b88acd47/f836f/rosie-laura-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/dfb351ccb6382b00f211e8d8b88acd47/2244e/rosie-laura-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/dfb351ccb6382b00f211e8d8b88acd47/f9913/rosie-laura-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Over the past few years our dog Rosie has become a therapy pooch, albeit very much by accident! During lockdown, our widowed elderly next-door neighbour was self-isolating and very lonely. After a chat over the garden fence near the start of the pandemic, we arranged to shop for her and collect medicines etc.
\n\n\nShe is an absolute treasure
\n
But it was our Rosie who really improved her quality of life by visiting her and spending most days with her next door. She’d only come back home through the gate for meals, sleep and walks! Although we missed Rosie’s company, as a family of six, we realised she was providing her with the much-needed love and companionship that she was seriously lacking at that challenging time.
\nThis relationship has subsequently continued. Now the pandemic has ended, our neighbour has sadly been diagnosed with cancer and Rosie has supported her throughout her treatment, giving her a reason to keep going. We are all back at school, college, uni and work, but Rosie continues to share her love with our lovely neighbour. Rosie will always be a positive influence in all of our lives. She is an absolute treasure, sharing her love with two homes!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roux","tags":["Support Dog","Brave & Loyal","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-roux","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/005106a505c6827e35dda1987b0d9946/f9913/roux-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/005106a505c6827e35dda1987b0d9946/f836f/roux-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/005106a505c6827e35dda1987b0d9946/2244e/roux-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/005106a505c6827e35dda1987b0d9946/f9913/roux-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Roux is a very special cocker spaniel – he inspired me to get hiking, which has resulted in one of the biggest walking groups in the Peak District.
\nHaving always been a dog lover, I bought Roux with the intention of learning agility as I wanted an active dog that would love the challenge. Sadly, he suffered an injury at three years old that ended our agility dreams, but I was determined to find another job for him.
\nI started hiking with Roux and my ex-partner and I realised that we had found our calling. Roux loved hopping up and posing on any rock that we would walk past, and I had finally found something that allowed us to spend real quality time together.
\nWhen my ex and I separated, I was heartbroken, but I was determined to keep up hiking with Roux. We walked all over the Peak District. But, as a single woman, I did worry about safety and I realised there must be others in a similar position.
\n\n\nHe’s been by my side every step of the way
\n
So in March 2020, I started ‘Walking the Peak District’ – a Facebook group to ensure no one ever has to walk alone if they don’t want to. And of course, Roux has been by my side every step of the way. We could explore safely, and of course dogs were more than welcome!
\nFast forward two years and Roux and I still hike most weekends. He’s eight now and can’t cover the mileage he used to, but he still hops onto every rock we walk past!
\nOur group, now called PeaksNPubs, has 3,600 members. It has introduced hundreds of people to walking in the Peak District and taught over 50 people to navigate safely in the hills. I’ve also been voted into the BMC Peak Area committee and I’ve got a dream of training a Search and Rescue dog.
\nI hope this will be Roux’s legacy. He’s such a loyal dog and he never leaves my side. We know each other’s thoughts, he never lets me down and so many people have been helped because of him. It all started with Roux.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roxy","tags":["Adorable","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-roxy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4fd1fe77149735aa95235dca1dcd7999/f9913/roxy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4fd1fe77149735aa95235dca1dcd7999/f836f/roxy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4fd1fe77149735aa95235dca1dcd7999/2244e/roxy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4fd1fe77149735aa95235dca1dcd7999/f9913/roxy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Roxy came to me as a last minute foster dog. Since I already had a Bull Terrier in the house, I was worried about how the pair of them would get along, but they became such fast friends that it only took two days for me to decide to permanently adopt her.
\n\n\nI got to witness her cheeky side!
\n
It was tricky at times, because Roxy hadn’t always been treated well before she found her home with me. I had to learn quickly what she was comfortable with and what scared her. But, after a few months she started to come out of her shell, and I got to witness her cheeky side!
\nNow we have had plenty of adventures together. Over the years we have climbed mountains and hiked all over the moors. She's helped me through so much, and is always there to look after me on my bad days. Roxy is my absolute world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Roxy","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal"],"slug":"meet-roxy-sarah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ed9934df0f5e8f366b6d2664a3871e4c/f9913/roxy-sarah-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ed9934df0f5e8f366b6d2664a3871e4c/f836f/roxy-sarah-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ed9934df0f5e8f366b6d2664a3871e4c/2244e/roxy-sarah-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ed9934df0f5e8f366b6d2664a3871e4c/f9913/roxy-sarah-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We bought Roxy from a farm while we were on holiday in Llandudno, Wales. I was buying a drink, and an old collie came up to greet me. I told the farmer how lovely he was, and he responded with: “Do you want a puppy?”
\nThe rest is history.
\nRoxy’s had a difficult time with her health. Five years ago, she developed epilepsy. The first time we saw her having a seizure was heartbreaking – being unable to help feels terrible. The worst part is that afterwards, for a short while, she’s really scared and doesn’t know who we are. Then, it’s like a switch is flicked and she comes running to us crying.
\n\n\n\n\nRoxy is so loving
\n
She’s now on two different types of medication, and although her seizures aren’t quite under control yet, she still copes well.
\nRoxy is so loving and is always happy to see us. She hops on the sofa whenever anyone sits down and snuggles into them. She’s very tolerant, too. For instance, since we’ve had her we’ve got two cats, two house rabbits and a tortoise. She’s accepted every one of them into her home and they all follow her around as if she’s their mum – even the tortoise!
\nIn the absence of sheep, she loves to chase a ball. I think she sees it as her job. She also has the softest head to stroke!
\nAll in all, she’s amazing and we’re incredibly lucky to have her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ruby","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ruby","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5a105a26a07d6080601955c6d5bc86b8/f9913/ruby-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5a105a26a07d6080601955c6d5bc86b8/f836f/ruby-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5a105a26a07d6080601955c6d5bc86b8/2244e/ruby-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5a105a26a07d6080601955c6d5bc86b8/f9913/ruby-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ruby was a rescue dog from Zakynthos, Greece. She ran out in front of a tourist’s car in the mountains in August this year. Thankfully they stopped, and she led them to a cave where she had five puppies that were about four weeks old. The tourist contacted the local rescue centre who took Ruby and her puppies in. I saw her profile on Facebook and immediately fell in love with her. I applied to adopt her, and she was transported to the UK in October.
\n\n\nHer pups wouldn’t have survived if she hadn’t taken action
\n
We’re not sure of her exact age, but the vets have aged her at between one and two years. She is the most lovable dog ever with a fantastic temperament. When I picked her up, she just jumped into my arms, like she knew she was home. I'm forever grateful to the Healing Paws charity for allowing me to adopt her. All of her pups are now also in England and I am in touch with the owners. She had beautiful pups who no doubt would never have survived if she hadn’t taken action when she did.
\nShe has been named after one of her rescuers, who I also keep in touch with. Ruby has changed my life with her lovable ways. She loves her walks and, after having a hip replacement last Christmas Eve, has enabled me to get out as well. My hubby didn't want a dog, but he is so besotted with her now!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ruaridh","tags":["Family","Class of 19/23","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-ruaridh","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/66acc167f3b7d4b40009094bd0fc2f0d/f9913/ruaridh-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/66acc167f3b7d4b40009094bd0fc2f0d/f836f/ruaridh-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/66acc167f3b7d4b40009094bd0fc2f0d/2244e/ruaridh-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/66acc167f3b7d4b40009094bd0fc2f0d/f9913/ruaridh-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Little Ruaridh came into our lives only one month ago but the impact he has made has been substantial. Although extremely hard work, he has already made our little family happier and healthier in every way. From getting us up bright and early (5am!) to getting us out in the fresh air more – he really has improved our wellbeing.
\n\n\nHe really has improved our wellbeing
\n
He’s the greediest dog and the loves to explore the world through his mouth. The strangest thing he enjoyed eating was the binmen’s gloves after the binman tried to give him a cuddle.
\nAs he grows, so do Ruaridh’s eyebrows and his long golden hair often glimmers in the sun. We love our little bundle of fluff and would love to spend some quality time away with him on his first holiday.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ruby","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ruby-amanda","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4ae263ca84f2c4306c118d395e1c9631/f9913/ruby-amanda-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ae263ca84f2c4306c118d395e1c9631/f836f/ruby-amanda-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4ae263ca84f2c4306c118d395e1c9631/2244e/ruby-amanda-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4ae263ca84f2c4306c118d395e1c9631/f9913/ruby-amanda-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I suffer from anxiety and Ruby has helped enormously. Stroking her always makes things feel better.
\n\n\n\n\nShe may be 12 now, but she still loves to play games
\n
But more than that, she makes me laugh every day. We have conversations and she copies my tone of voice. She may be 12 now, but she still loves to play games and tease me.
\nShe gets incredibly excited if we play ‘round and round the garden’ when she’s lying on her back – and I swear she laughs when we get to ‘tickle you under there’!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet ruby","tags":["Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ruby-diana","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d31d76e613ca237b0bd1aded2f4ca188/f9913/ruby-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d31d76e613ca237b0bd1aded2f4ca188/f836f/ruby-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d31d76e613ca237b0bd1aded2f4ca188/2244e/ruby-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d31d76e613ca237b0bd1aded2f4ca188/f9913/ruby-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We treat Ruby like she’s our third daughter.I’d never had a dog before and I was scared about getting one, but having Ruby has made me see that all dogs are absolutely lovely. She has always been a mummy’s girl, and she won’t go for a walk with anyone else. We go to France twice a year and Ruby has come with us every time. It’s a long day of travelling, but right she’s always good as gold.
\n\n\nShe won’t go for a walk with anyone else
\n
She is so affectionate and loves nothing more than cuddles on the sofa. If you’re sad, she will snuggle and kiss you even more. I am so pleased my husband and children talked me in to getting a dog, as Ruby has made the past ten years of my life the happiest yet.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ruby","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ruby-elizabeth","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0783c15080c9f0e00f803e435f891915/f9913/ruby-elizabeth-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0783c15080c9f0e00f803e435f891915/f836f/ruby-elizabeth-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0783c15080c9f0e00f803e435f891915/2244e/ruby-elizabeth-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0783c15080c9f0e00f803e435f891915/f9913/ruby-elizabeth-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Ruby is a gorgeous mix of Welsh and Border Terrier. She has all the Terrier traits – she never chases balls or plays with toys. Something has to move for her to chase it, so her favourite pastime is chasing squirrels.
\nThankfully, despite being fast, she’s not caught anything yet. But if she chases a squirrel up a tree, she’ll follow underneath as they run from branch to branch, barking at them to come back down. Then she’ll sit still under the tree and wait for them.
\nThere’s also the neighbour’s cat, who torments her as she sits behind garden gates. It calmly strolls past, while she goes into full Terrier mode, telling it off. For a little dog, she loves being outdoors and is happiest when she’s out having walkies – the longer the better.
\nShe always loves to jump up onto a wall and see what’s on the other side. She’s also clever, so she can count if she hasn’t had three walks in a day. She’ll lie down, head on paws, and let out a big sigh, with her eyes pleading to go out.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ruby","tags":["Small","Funny","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-ruby-lesley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d0c388252cfef35143393ffe14f1d792/f9913/ruby-lesley-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d0c388252cfef35143393ffe14f1d792/f836f/ruby-lesley-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/d0c388252cfef35143393ffe14f1d792/2244e/ruby-lesley-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/d0c388252cfef35143393ffe14f1d792/f9913/ruby-lesley-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Her favourite pastime is chasing squirrels
\n
Bouncy, curious and mischievous, Ruby is a little red Patterdale Terrier who loves other dogs and children and is always ready to play and have fun. She’s a great swimmer, too, and loves to ride on my children's boogie and paddle boards (before launching herself into the sea to catch her floating fish toy!).
\n\n\n\n\nShe loves everyone and everything
\n
Despite facing some stiff competition from some very happy dogs at our annual street party, Ruby won ‘waggiest tail’ and has her first place rosette pinned above her bed. Sadly, she failed to win the ‘best child handler’ because she stopped, greeted and licked every single person watching, one by one! She loves everyone and everything.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Saber","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-saber","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b521a284f6dab33c25ee32d0c9289483/f9913/saber-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b521a284f6dab33c25ee32d0c9289483/f836f/saber-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b521a284f6dab33c25ee32d0c9289483/2244e/saber-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b521a284f6dab33c25ee32d0c9289483/f9913/saber-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"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.
\n\n\nLife during lockdown would have been impossible without his companionship
\n
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.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sadie","tags":["Funny","Adorable","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sadie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/214667675905c4b38594f207bedc0f1c/f9913/sadie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/214667675905c4b38594f207bedc0f1c/f836f/sadie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/214667675905c4b38594f207bedc0f1c/2244e/sadie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/214667675905c4b38594f207bedc0f1c/f9913/sadie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My daughter, Eve, had been on a campaign to get a dog since she was two years old. Every birthday or Christmas when we asked what she would like for a present, she always replied ‘a dog’.
\nAt age 13, she said if we didn’t get one before she was 14 we could forget it as she’d get one when she left home. This made us realise that we had no good reason not to get one. So, for Christmas that year, we bought Eve a lead and dog bowl to show our commitment, and the day after Boxing Day we had a little mini schnauzer called Freddie.
\n\n\nShe has us all wrapped around her little paw
\n
After a few days, the breeder rang us to ask if we’d been to the vet (we had, and the vet said he hadn’t ‘dropped’ yet) and then asked for the puppy back as ‘he’ was a girl who someone wanted to breed from! Of course, now we were completely besotted with her so couldn’t part with her.
\nSadie is small but mighty and makes her gentle presence felt – she has us all wrapped around her little paw. She makes us laugh, melts our hearts every day and has been the best thing we’ve ever done as a family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Rufus","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-rufus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2533edbf6b36af0efb5a7afff1f41b42/f9913/rufus-deb-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2533edbf6b36af0efb5a7afff1f41b42/f836f/rufus-deb-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2533edbf6b36af0efb5a7afff1f41b42/2244e/rufus-deb-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2533edbf6b36af0efb5a7afff1f41b42/f9913/rufus-deb-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Myself and my husband had been together since 2002. In 2008, we bought our home, and in 2009 we got married and very quickly decided we wanted to have a baby.
\nLittle did we know, life was going to throw us a massive curve ball and our journey wasn’t going to be that simple. So, 2011-2013 came and went with no joy of a baby. We’d had a round of fertility treatment and it failed, and my mental health was taking a bashing.
\nThen, in March 2014, we decided to get our fur baby Rufus and he literally saved me for the next two years. He was my confidant, my best friend, my shoulder to cry on and my strength to get up every morning.
\n\n\nHe knows everything about me – the good, the bad and the ugly
\n
He got me through so much, and still does. He knows when I’m upset, or when I need time and hugs. He knows everything about me – the good, the bad and the ugly.
\nThen, in 2016, our journey as human parents finally began, and Rufus is exactly the same with his human brother. He’s by his side forever and always and loves us all unconditionally.
\nI share my story as I feel like we sometimes don’t give our doggos enough credit for what they do for us. Just this month we added another furry friend to our brood and, again, Rufus has taken to him so well. I’m proud of my boyo and he will forever be my first baby.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sally","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Family","Brave","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sally","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e875c2aed21e453f3144efb74699fa23/f9913/sally-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e875c2aed21e453f3144efb74699fa23/f836f/sally-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e875c2aed21e453f3144efb74699fa23/2244e/sally-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e875c2aed21e453f3144efb74699fa23/f9913/sally-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Sally from a rescue charity called Wolfies Legacy.She was originally a street dog in Tunisia where she suffered a gun wound. Both of her front elbows were severely damaged, and as she didn’t have access to a vet, her front legs ended up becoming set in a bent, upright position.
\nDespite all she’s been through, Sally is the most loving and trusting dog you could ever wish to meet.She's adapted to walking on her elbows, which we pad to protect, and can sit on her hind legs when she’s begging for treats or if she wants to be picked up. She’s incredibly fast when she wants to be and knows how to jump and hop at speed.
\n\n\nShe’s a dog that lives for the moment
\n
We run a home-boarding dog business and Sally is our guidance dog for all the new arrivals.She is super friendly and always makes them feel safeand welcome. Some dogs are a little puzzled by her, as they can't quite figure out why she won't run around with them, but we've noticed how easily they learn to play in ways that accommodate her. It’s truly heart-warming to watch how the dogs interact, accept and embrace Sally’s disabilities.
\nBeing unable to walk very far hasn't stopped Sally from loving life and exploring. We take her out in her buggy every day, and she loves nothing more than to watch the world go by. She’s a dog that lives for the momentand enjoys everything life offers her. Having Sally is a constant reminder that life is what you make it.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sam","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sam-lynda","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/56da532af72ee840255db561651ff3ab/9a128/sam-lynda-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/56da532af72ee840255db561651ff3ab/f836f/sam-lynda-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/56da532af72ee840255db561651ff3ab/2244e/sam-lynda-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/56da532af72ee840255db561651ff3ab/9a128/sam-lynda-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Sam has shown me that even in dark times, there can still be light. Up until September last year, he was a fun-loving, adventurous young Collie who lived life to the full. Then he went blind, almost overnight. Long story short, despite tests and an excellent specialist, the reason for this remains unknown.
\nMy husband and I were devastated and our other Collie, Caley, soon realised something was wrong as her playmate could no longer see her to play. However, despite the shock and heartache, I immediately started looking into how a blind dog could still live a full and happy life.
\n\n\nSam has shown me that even in dark times, there can still be light
\n
Sam and I have worked together, learning new commands such as ‘step up’, ‘step down’, ‘careful’ etc. Caley and I wear bells when we are out so he can hear where we are. As a result, he is still able to walk off lead in most places. We live in the Scottish Highlands and he was used to a lot of freedom before he went blind, so it's fantastic that this hasn't been taken away from him along with his sight.
\nHe still enjoys swimming and belts around the garden as if he were sighted. He has inspired me every single day. My sadness for him is still there, but he’s taught me that, despite your setbacks, you can still get on with life and live it to the full. He is absolutely amazing, and I hope he goes on to have many years of adventures up here in Scotland.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sam","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sam-nicola","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d2bb5114a3265f246c696c64c45d425b/f9913/sam-nicola-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d2bb5114a3265f246c696c64c45d425b/f836f/sam-nicola-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d2bb5114a3265f246c696c64c45d425b/2244e/sam-nicola-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d2bb5114a3265f246c696c64c45d425b/f9913/sam-nicola-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I met Sam the Sheltie when I was in care. His owner, a lady called Olive, had a terminal brain tumour. Sam was 12 then and Olive decided that she would give Sam to Dogs Trust for rehoming. When I heard this story, it broke my heart.
\n\n\nI promised I would give him the best life
\n
Let me tell you a bit about the relationship between Olive and Sam. Olive never had children and always had dogs as her babies. Sam wouldn’t leave Olive’s side when she was ill. He knew something was wrong and he would always be at her feet. When Olive was unable to stand anymore and was confined to a bed, he would lay at the bottom of the bed with one paw touching her.
\nI just couldn’t bear Sam losing his mum, his everything, and then being locked in a cage, confused and scared. So, I made the decision to take Sam in and promised I would give him the best life. Here we are five years later, still loving a walk, and the other dogs always show us so much love.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sam","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sam","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3f6f11c8c54041540c8691cccfe002fd/f9913/sam-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3f6f11c8c54041540c8691cccfe002fd/f836f/sam-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3f6f11c8c54041540c8691cccfe002fd/2244e/sam-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3f6f11c8c54041540c8691cccfe002fd/f9913/sam-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have owned Sam (or rather he has owned me) since he was a 12-week-old puppy. As I’ve been housebound for the last ten years, he’s been my constant companion while my husband’s at work
\nI love him, but he’s probably the most demanding dog in the world. He yaps and whines until he gets his own way and won’t leave me alone until I rearrange his bed for him!
\n\n\nHe’s been my constant companion
\n
Sam is particularly fond of cats and is friends with the three that live in the local area. He also loves walks at the beach with my husband. I treasure every single day I have with my dog, and I’m so grateful he cameinto our lives all those years ago.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sammy","tags":["Senior","Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sammy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/83780d8ec2801b41de2680408622057a/f9913/sammy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/83780d8ec2801b41de2680408622057a/f836f/sammy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/83780d8ec2801b41de2680408622057a/2244e/sammy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/83780d8ec2801b41de2680408622057a/f9913/sammy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"He’s the best thing since sliced bread – a human with four paws. He's not easy to wake in the morning because he likes to stay wrapped up in my dressing gown until I get sorted.
\nHe enjoys the perks of two houses, as he passes between ours and the neighbours via his own self-made gate in the fence. He goes there to play and comes home to sleep.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s the best thing since sliced bread
\n
He loves ‘hunt the treat’ games, as well as the usual doggy toys. He asks to go out for a wee by peeping round the corner of the room and giving a small 'chuff' sound. He also makes the same noise when he wants to come up on the sofa – he’s a dog with manners.
\nHe has his own masseuse (my friend), his own eye cleaner (my husband) and his own bottom cleaner (me). Can you get any more human than that? Or is he just a spoilt pooch? We love him loads, for all his traits.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sandy","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sandy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0d6859cd6d44ab53b64637632ac1630a/d8815/sandy-header.png","srcSet":"/static/0d6859cd6d44ab53b64637632ac1630a/69585/sandy-header.png 200w,\n/static/0d6859cd6d44ab53b64637632ac1630a/497c6/sandy-header.png 400w,\n/static/0d6859cd6d44ab53b64637632ac1630a/d8815/sandy-header.png 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I'm a support worker for the very vulnerable and my dog is the best thing that has happened to me since lockdown began.
\n\n\nShe gives me so much love!
\n
I come home every night and she jumps all over me and gives me so much love. She makes my day so much better. She is my alarm clock, and even talks to me in her own special way by licking my face and nudging me when she needs me.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sasha","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sasha-laura","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQIF/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAepjSMq8EacIVeFP/8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBAxAhETEy/9oACAEBAAEFApF2QPtKOcP1V7P/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAZEAEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEQICH/2gAIAQEABj8CnMJcbdf/xAAbEAACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhEEFRkf/aAAgBAQABPyHpsplkURpCREcR4S/po7Yj/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABB4Fz//xAAYEQEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARMf/aAAgBAwEBPxAULccx/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAx/9oACAECAQE/EDUav//EABsQAQEBAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExUUGB/9oACAEBAAE/EDeABzXMZAfphMuIFwJZciCMCHnuEneBapPh8yiHVfvLjf/Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/730beff72a8fe3e56f3705a8a198c5e5/f9913/sasha-laura-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/730beff72a8fe3e56f3705a8a198c5e5/f836f/sasha-laura-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/730beff72a8fe3e56f3705a8a198c5e5/2244e/sasha-laura-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/730beff72a8fe3e56f3705a8a198c5e5/f9913/sasha-laura-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sasha is my side-kick, my plus one, my absolute everything. I have grown up with Spaniels all my life, but when I lost my last boy Louis, I didn’t think I’d be able to ever get another one. Then, along came Sasha and she stole my heart from the moment I met her.
\n\n\nShe stole my heart
\n
She is the most sociable, friendly, loving dog I have ever known. It’s been just the two of us through lockdown and she has got me through it, getting me out and about on our walks every day and spending time in the garden with me.
\nEveryone needs a Sasha in their life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Schubert","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-schubert","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d8c5b32da22db4098881c395863d4aee/f9913/schubert-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d8c5b32da22db4098881c395863d4aee/f836f/schubert-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d8c5b32da22db4098881c395863d4aee/2244e/schubert-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d8c5b32da22db4098881c395863d4aee/f9913/schubert-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Schubert entered our lives in May 2021. Both of us are currently studying for PhDs and Schubert has been a real lifeline to get us through that. He is clumsy and a hilarious ball of energy, but he also knows when we need calm and he’s sensitive to our needs as well as his own.
\n\n\nHe’s sensitive to our needs as well as his own
\n
Just recently, we took Schubert on a walk up the Wrekin in Shropshire and on the way down we encountered a woman who had fallen and broken her ankle. She had three young children with her. Normally Schubert is not brilliant with children, but he could sense how upset they were, and he sat very calmly for nearly two hours, allowing them to hug him, stroke him and just gain comfort from him. Once we were eventually able to continue the walk down the Wrekin, it was completely dark, and Schubert led the way to ensure a safe path for us all. We were very proud of him that day.
\nSchubert has also suffered a lot with allergies since March this year. He was very subdued for a few months, but we recently added a new puppy, Heidi, to our family. Since then, Schubert has really regained the spring in his step and returned to his playful self. He is still suffering from with his allergies, but we are finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Scooby","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-scooby","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCAwX/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAwH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAeVWIZrKcs9fgScIqf/EABoQAAMBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhIDETH/2gAIAQEAAQUCmHQuKEXnesF09HquV0f/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABD/2gAIAQMBAT8Bdb//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABD/2gAIAQIBAT8BNL//xAAaEAACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREgISIx/9oACAEBAAY/AoN3kZPbf//EABsQAQADAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESFBMVFh/9oACAEBAAE/IUKGzP8AmLiojg5AXBf0ZLRXeFxKYdCaMfM//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABC393z/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABARMf/aAAgBAwEBPxBK5Edrqf/EABgRAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBEx/9oACAECAQE/EABrBMrgn//EABoQAQEBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExQVH/2gAIAQEAAT8QC0rqO6APxF3KFIr5mUEIdQ9bjua4Sscrcy5LrERPcOV+7//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/48b8d97ea037839945af84ff06d19124/f9913/scooby-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/48b8d97ea037839945af84ff06d19124/f836f/scooby-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/48b8d97ea037839945af84ff06d19124/2244e/scooby-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/48b8d97ea037839945af84ff06d19124/f9913/scooby-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog Scooby is a cross between a Jack Russell and a Schnauzer. He’s now eight years old. When I and my now departed wife went to the farm with our daughter, he was the last puppy left all alone in a barn. He was just too lovable to be left on his own.
\n\n\nHe was just too lovable
\n
He is a very friendly boy and always looks for attention. I am 69 and currently in isolation with an underlying health condition. I had to go to the hospital at the end of March and the poor little soul didn’t know what was going on – he broke through the fence looking for me! My son-in-law went looking for him and I got a call from the person who had caught him. Luckily, I came home that night and we were reunited.
\nI also have a Husky (Mia), a kitten (Tommy) and a budgie (Clyde). They all get on with each other, which is a blessing in the current climate!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Scooby","tags":["Family","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-scooby-dawn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/349ec2d84057b2accd95344906455748/f9913/scooby-dawn-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/349ec2d84057b2accd95344906455748/f836f/scooby-dawn-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/349ec2d84057b2accd95344906455748/2244e/scooby-dawn-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/349ec2d84057b2accd95344906455748/f9913/scooby-dawn-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"A few years ago, I lost one of my two dogs to a brain lesion. My other 16 year-old-dog, Tia, developed severe separation anxiety, and I was told that getting another dog to keep her company could help. I visited a rescue and was shown some pups that had come over from Romania. One of them stole my heart – he was called Aris, but I changed his name to Scooby, which suits him better.
\nScooby was terrified when I first brought him home. He knew nothing and had never been in a house, so he was scared of everything, especially the television. It took weeks of sitting outside on the front doorstep with him before he would venture outside. Improving his confidence was a long process, but with lots of love and patience he blossomed into the amazing dog he is today.
\n\n\nHe blossomed into the amazing dog he is today
\n
As I expected, introducing a pup to a 16-year-old dog wasn't easy. Scooby would grab hold of Tia's legs and drag her around (in a playful way), but because Tia wouldn't tell him off, he didn't know he was doing anything wrong. Sadly, just seven months after bringing Scooby home, we had to put Tia down. I was distraught, but Scooby was my saviour. He needed me just as much as I needed him, and he gave me a reason to get up every day. Taking him for walks got me out of the house and talking to people, but more than anything, I’m grateful for what a calming and positive influence he was in that dark time.
\nHe didn't ever pester or whine – he was my rock and always stayed by my side. Now Scooby has a little sister (another rescue dog I adopted two months ago), and they get on so well you’d think they had always lived together.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Scout","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-scout","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/39cb78e86adf8350ef7a9f48ef22fb9d/f9913/scout-header-2023.jpg","srcSet":"/static/39cb78e86adf8350ef7a9f48ef22fb9d/f836f/scout-header-2023.jpg 200w,\n/static/39cb78e86adf8350ef7a9f48ef22fb9d/2244e/scout-header-2023.jpg 400w,\n/static/39cb78e86adf8350ef7a9f48ef22fb9d/f9913/scout-header-2023.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I didn’t know how much I needed Scout until he crash-landed (literally) into my arms as a puppy. Abandoned on the streets and left to fend for himself, he was eventually picked up and taken to a pound. He was emaciated, suffering from mange and kennel cough, and believed to be both blind and deaf, so they thought it might be kinder to put him to sleep. After all, who would want a puppy with so many problems?
\nLuckily, thanks to the heroic efforts of three amazing rescue organisations, Scout’s life was saved. We were lucky enough to adopt him a short time later and he turned our world upside down. Although he’s not deaf, he’s completely blind, but this hasn’t held him back in the slightest. He climbs mountains, paddles in the sea and runs freely with his canine pals.
\nThroughout Scout’s life, we’ve been on a mission to repay the kindness that was shown to him as a puppy. For instance, he’s been a much-loved therapy dog, visiting a local dementia care home to spread joy and love. He’s also the adopted mascot for a local community carers café.
\nOver the years, Scout has helped to raise thousands of pounds for a local dog rescue, attending meet and greets, street collections, and lending a paw on tombola stalls. During lockdown, he managed to raise £500 by fronting an online dog show. He’s also attended Crufts several times, supporting anti-puppy farming campaigns, and even helping to launch a charity foundation.
\nScout gave me my life back. After my first dog was tragically killed by another dog on a walk, I developed severe anxiety about walking outside, but owning Scout made me strong. I’m his eyes, so he needs me to be confident and unafraid, and keep him safe. Out and about, he always puts a smile on people’s faces with his quirky high-stepping gait – a result of his blindness. Scout is my inspiration, my hero and my best friend.
\n\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Scrabble","tags":["Puppy","Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-scrabble","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/54243fc77da7bca0f954c35ecec80a47/f9913/scrabble-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/54243fc77da7bca0f954c35ecec80a47/f836f/scrabble-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/54243fc77da7bca0f954c35ecec80a47/2244e/scrabble-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/54243fc77da7bca0f954c35ecec80a47/f9913/scrabble-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"He always puts a smile on people’s faces
\n
We got Scrabble at the start of June this year, and since then, she has become this whirlwind of affection, fun and mischief in our lives. She loves stealing the laundry as you hang it on the line. We only know something has gone because suddenly she streaks past you and disappears – we call it being Scrabbled!
\nOne time, we tried to put up guttering in our new shed, and at the key moment we found the connectors had been Scrabbled. Other times, we might go to put on walking boots, and one of them has been Scrabbled. Where do they go? Quite often in the wild part of our garden at the back, or if we are lucky, just in the dog bed!
\n\n\nShe has become this whirlwind of affection, fun and mischief in our lives
\n
Scrabble won’t let you not love her. She literally bounds into your arms and licks your nose if you are not cuddling her or playing. And then, just as suddenly, she is curled up asleep.
\nTonight, I walked her and my other dog, Corry, down the lane from my house at dusk. Her delight and curiosity towards the deer, owls and squirrels was so heart-warming. She always loves sniffing and sometimes eating flowers, and she’ll come up for a quick stroke if she’s unsure where we’re going. I could never be alone or lonely with that little girl!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Seero","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-seero","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQDBQL/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAfOUdk10nJYm0KycH//EABwQAAMAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxEhABITIv/aAAgBAQABBQIthpUIfPJL6ULKtBfT6fr9nR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARASD/2gAIAQIBAT8BCY//xAAcEAACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhAhAiQWH/2gAIAQEABj8CS7dCwmtW4OSn3VGSdwhn/8QAHBABAAMAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFRQWGB/9oACAEBAAE/IQwKUeowiDxUpE+mWJNHAO5drmDOxKWj2JhHAz//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEKQXgP/EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQETH/2gAIAQMBAT8QtNR1f//EABgRAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABITFB/9oACAECAQE/EBtxGP/EAB0QAQACAwADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQVFhcYH/2gAIAQEAAT8QPbbh/QvrEHfiJ3Xl8gxuG8cbW85BEycBnyxGBudVDZbGlHO6jVmCl5fsBwQJ/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5219276af72418d4b131d40454c971fc/f9913/seero-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5219276af72418d4b131d40454c971fc/f836f/seero-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5219276af72418d4b131d40454c971fc/2244e/seero-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5219276af72418d4b131d40454c971fc/f9913/seero-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"In February 2020, my fiancé and I were looking to adopt a shelter/rescue dog. We live in an upstairs apartment so wanted a small dog. None of the shelters around us had any though, so we took to searching through Facebook.
\n\n\nAdopting Seero was the best decision we’ve ever made
\n
My partner came across an appeal for a little black dog in Cyprus. He had four separate posts from the charity hoping someone would take an interest in this little boy, but nobody seemed to. That broke our hearts – he looked absolutely perfect to us and we fell in love with the photos of him. We thought it would never happen. How would we get him to North East Scotland from Cyprus? I messaged the shelter's page to enquire. A week later we were picking Seero up from a drop-off point in Glasgow. We couldn't believe our luck.
\nI've had a horrible year due to poor health and being unable to work for the time being, and Seero has definitely saved me – and my partner – more than we saved him. Waking up to his little face, a wagging tail and big kisses has been amazing. He really seems happy now. His eyes were once sad, but now they’re full of love. Adopting Seero was the best decision we've ever made. I would advise everyone to consider adopting.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Shadow","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-shadow","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d2704b9c47f598ecc5c035ae8abc4d0d/f9913/shadow-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d2704b9c47f598ecc5c035ae8abc4d0d/f836f/shadow-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d2704b9c47f598ecc5c035ae8abc4d0d/2244e/shadow-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d2704b9c47f598ecc5c035ae8abc4d0d/f9913/shadow-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My partner and I started our search for our first ever dog five and a half years ago. We knew we wanted to rehome to a rescue, so we got in contact with lots of charities. That’s when we saw a scruffy black dog who had just made his way to the UK after being rescued from the streets in Romania.
\nAfter meeting at his foster home (and noticing he’d grown A LOT in the few weeks since his rescue), we brought that scruffy puppy home. It just so happened that his name was already Shadow, which I loved as Homeward Bound was my favourite childhood movie! In the first few months, as he got used to living in a home for the first time, we started to think ‘What have we gotten ourselves into?!’ But with weekly training sessions and agility, he soon got the hang of his home life.
\n\n\nHe makes our little family of three complete
\n
Fast forward a couple of years, and we decided to buy a motor home and travel Europe for six months. Now Shadow is a big dog, so we were a little apprehensive about him in our small home on wheels, but he took to life on the road like a duck to water. Every time we pulled up in a new place, he’d be at the windscreen begging to get out and explore!
\nIn the past five years, we’ve taken Shadow to 12 countries, up countless mountains, on boats, on trains and just about anywhere else we could! He’s our best friend and he makes our little family of three complete.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Shandy","tags":["Funny","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-shandy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":null,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4e6fcc0fb313d50ac2b380826883b251/f9913/shandy-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4e6fcc0fb313d50ac2b380826883b251/f836f/shandy-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4e6fcc0fb313d50ac2b380826883b251/2244e/shandy-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4e6fcc0fb313d50ac2b380826883b251/f9913/shandy-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I rescued Shandy from Spain. She was a street dog, and some ex-pats in the village found her and took her to the local rescue centre. When I heard her story, I knew she deserved a safe and loving home with us.
\n\n\nOur dog has completed our family
\n
She has long legs and almost trots when running. She won't eat her food unless I say it's OK and she’s so gentle with our other tiny rescue dog, it makes my heart sing to watch them play and have fun!
\nShandy has boosted my mental health. I was feeling pretty low after losing my job, but the long walks we take together have been so good for both of us. Our dog has completed our family and watching her grow more confident every day has been a joy for us all.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Selma","tags":["Puppy","Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-selma","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0915426040b0af7176078feceb2a4090/f9913/selma-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0915426040b0af7176078feceb2a4090/f836f/selma-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0915426040b0af7176078feceb2a4090/2244e/selma-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0915426040b0af7176078feceb2a4090/f9913/selma-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I rescued selma from Romania when she was seven months but everyone in my life will agree that it’s her that did the saving. I was in a really bad place in my life mentally and physically and this little angel on four legs got me up and out every day.
\nShe gives me cuddles and makes me laugh constantly. She was the best decision I could have made for my mental health and continues to be an absolute ray of sunshine in my life. She wakes me up in the morning by literally jumping on me repeatedly and makes the strangest little pigeon noise whenever she wants a walk or food or even just attention.
\n\n\n\n\nShe wakes me up in the morning by literally jumping on me repeatedly
\n
She is a rascal and cheeky but the little cuddly sheep gets away with it. You know when she’s upset as her curly tail unfurls down to the floor and her very cute ears (one up, one down!) go flat. She’s got zero idea of personal space and loves to intently smell everyone’s mouths to know what they’ve been up to. She’s nothing but a positive influence in my life. The greatest gift that I can’t believe is mine.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sherman","tags":["Adorable","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sherman","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/aeb0fa715ae26db633148a9026f34daa/f9913/sherman-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/aeb0fa715ae26db633148a9026f34daa/f836f/sherman-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/aeb0fa715ae26db633148a9026f34daa/2244e/sherman-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/aeb0fa715ae26db633148a9026f34daa/f9913/sherman-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We’ve had Sherman since he was a puppy, though back then I didn’t realise quite how big he would grow, both in size and personality. Sherman is an amazing dog, not only to us at home but also within our local community.
\nSherman loves nothing more than attending school drop off and pick up, and if he doesn’t come, the children all ask for him. He is adored by all and constantly showered with cards, presents and more importantly, cuddles. There have been many occasions when parents have struggled to get their children to go school, but Sherman is happy to walk beside them, and that seems to be all the encouragement they need.
\n\n\nHe is adored by all
\n
Often, Sherman doesn’t want to leave the children, which can be quite embarrassing for me – it’s very tricky moving 12 stones of fluff! There are not enough words to describe the positive influence Sherman has had on us all. As well as looking after children, he also helps all the new puppies to become a part of our community by volunteering as a support dog, and even helps dogs who have been rescued and need socialising.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Shirley","tags":["Senior","Small","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-shirley","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3e5fe75800361367658bfaf95064c44b/f9913/shirley-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3e5fe75800361367658bfaf95064c44b/f836f/shirley-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/3e5fe75800361367658bfaf95064c44b/2244e/shirley-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/3e5fe75800361367658bfaf95064c44b/f9913/shirley-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My daughter, Felicity, bought Shirley as a puppy (I loaned her the money to buy her). She always wanted a pug and finally got one when she was 25 years old. Felicity absolutely loved her little dog, who even featured on top of her wedding cake in sugar form! Shirley became a doting carer for Felicity’s children, too.
\nSadly, Felicity passed away aged 34, leaving her two boys (aged two and four), as well as Shirley the dog.
\n\n\n\n\nShirley is such a wonderful little dog who is just full of love
\n
Felicity’s husband found it difficult to care for Shirley, so we adopted her. She spent a lot of time with us anyway, so it wasn’t too much of a trial coming to live with us, particularly as she was aging. As a 15-year-old dog, I think she liked being with two retired oldies.
\nShe snuggles up to us on the sofa every night and has been such a comfort to us. Shirley is such a wonderful little dog who is just full of love.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Silkie","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-silkie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4361e763951b6e721e5ef66e11c4d2d6/f9913/silkie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4361e763951b6e721e5ef66e11c4d2d6/f836f/silkie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4361e763951b6e721e5ef66e11c4d2d6/2244e/silkie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4361e763951b6e721e5ef66e11c4d2d6/f9913/silkie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our dog is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel called Silkie. We’ve had him since he was just 12 weeks old and he is now around 18 months. He is a dog that loves cuddles, playing, and just making the most of all life has to offer.
\nHe’s made such a huge difference to our family, but particularly to my 17-year-old son Hayden, who has autism and multiple other needs. Prior to Silkie, Hayden was very withdrawn and almost didn't speak. He hadn’t left the house for months, not even to go into the garden. As his parents, we were at our wits end and so sad at the limited life he was leading.
\nFrom the moment we brought Silkie home, he and Hayden bonded. It was as if Silkie knew he needed a friend. Initially, cuddles and playing indoors were the order of the day. On a couple of occasions, Silkie would pick up his toy and go out of our back door to the garden, wagging his tail and prancing as if to say to Hayden 'Come out and play!'. At first, Hayden would just call Silkie back in, but eventually he went outside, moving further down the garden as he became more confident. Silkie encouraged him further, coaxing him out for longer and waiting patiently for him to follow, almost as if he knew he was scared.
\n\n\nSilkie knew Hayden needed a friend
\n
Before we knew it, Hayden was running up and down the garden and confident enough to go out there on his own. Because he wanted to do his best for Silkie, Hayden even progressed to coming out with us on dog walks. Initially, this was just locally, but soon he began to take Silkie to more interesting places, like the vets. Thanks to Silkie, he’s no longer afraid of people, and will happily stop and chat to them about dogs. Sometimes, he even ventures into shops, which he would never even think of doing before.
\nSilkie has brought our family so much joy. He’s not only offered us all loyalty and companionship, but he’s transformed Hayden’s world. For the first time in a long while he is happy, and the confidence he’s gained has allowed him to grow in all areas in his life. He’s re-entered education (which he had missed for around 18 months), goes on outings and has his own friends. None of this would have happened without Silkie.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Simba","tags":["Senior","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-simba","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0c6bb7bc5aade6b03b42c2b8937cb72e/f9913/simba-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0c6bb7bc5aade6b03b42c2b8937cb72e/f836f/simba-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0c6bb7bc5aade6b03b42c2b8937cb72e/2244e/simba-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0c6bb7bc5aade6b03b42c2b8937cb72e/f9913/simba-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Words do not describe Simba, he is simply a gift from heaven. From puppy days, he has known his own mind and has been into mischief at any opportunity (a modern day Marley). Our world turned upside down when he stole kebabs off the kitchen table, ate them whole and proceeded to go about his normal business. Two months passed and many vet checks, it was established the skewers were still inside. Major surgery and multiple operations over a two week period, he was saved and back where he belongs. He’s 12 years old now and still looking after the family, the best friend anyone could wish for.
\n\n\n\n\nFrom puppy days, he has known his own mind and has been into mischief at any opportunity
\n
Along came Willow, his new love, so in awe of Simba. He tries his best to teach her bad habits but she’s so calm and such a good little girl. She’s three years old now and desperately seeking the pack leader role. He’s older, wiser, slower and less enthusiastic these days but will never give up his seat on the throne and protector of this family!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Shylow","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-shylow","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5d0ebf046e4ed4a6ed9e49ae5f1976e1/f9913/shylow-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5d0ebf046e4ed4a6ed9e49ae5f1976e1/f836f/shylow-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5d0ebf046e4ed4a6ed9e49ae5f1976e1/2244e/shylow-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5d0ebf046e4ed4a6ed9e49ae5f1976e1/f9913/shylow-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Shylow is the most ‘human’ dog! He has guided my husband through a very dark period of depression and listens to his every word. He sat beside my husband, tilting his head, listening to every word and rambles back. Shylow understands everything we say to him and my husband and the dog share their own howling conversations. Shylow is our motivation to get up and get outdoors.
\n\n\nWatching him live his best life with us has enabled us to live ours with him
\n
He brings toys to play with and tells us exactly what he wants. Shylow enjoys the finer things in life like freshly cooked sausages – or a packet of beef hula hoops! He is very well-behaved, and watching him live his best life with us has enabled us to live ours with him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Simba","tags":["Adult","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-simba-deirdre","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/56198e39be9d76425d7a60ba1e73529d/f9913/simba-deirdre-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/56198e39be9d76425d7a60ba1e73529d/f836f/simba-deirdre-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/56198e39be9d76425d7a60ba1e73529d/2244e/simba-deirdre-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/56198e39be9d76425d7a60ba1e73529d/f9913/simba-deirdre-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Simba came to us as a 14-week-old puppy. We’d recently lost our first cockapoo, Ellie, to hypothermia at 17 months, after she fell in a river in a freak accident while chasing a bird. We were devastated, and coming home to just an empty cage and her favourite toy was horrible.
\nI knew that I had to do something, so when I saw the advert for Simba, I made an enquiry. We went to see him that evening and we brought him home the very next day. Simba has helped us come to terms with our loss – he makes us laugh, he makes us cry, he exasperates us beyond measure, but he is always there for us when we are sad or upset.
\n\n\n\n\nSimba has helped us come to terms with our loss
\n
Simba will never replace Ellie, who’ll always have a piece of our hearts, but he’s so loving and very much a mummy’s boy. He’s my shadow, following me everywhere and crying if I leave the room. He also steals things he shouldn’t, like underwear, socks or anything else he knows belongs to us and is out of bounds – even my mobile phone! I think I’m on phone case number six because he likes to chew them.
\nSimba's my life. He doesn’t have a nasty bone in his body and would defend his pack (my husband, myself and our best friend) to the ends of the earth to stop us getting hurt. He’s a very special dog, and I’m so glad that I found him at one of the worst times in my life. He’s my rock and I love him beyond words.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sky","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sky","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2a6049e4b05031b398412fb9f1e0bde7/f9913/sky-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2a6049e4b05031b398412fb9f1e0bde7/f836f/sky-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2a6049e4b05031b398412fb9f1e0bde7/2244e/sky-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2a6049e4b05031b398412fb9f1e0bde7/f9913/sky-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sky came to us in June 2021. She was rescued from a shelter in Romania. As a tiny puppy, she had suffered a burn to her side and a broken back, so she was paralysed when she was found in a kill shelter. Sky was rescued by a lovely lady who ran a private shelter. She nursed her and cared for her, and gradually her mobility began to improve. We knew Sky was going to be a cheeky girl as she was housed with a litter of very young puppies in the shelter, and despite her problems, she decided she preferred their bed to her own. So, she pushed them out and moved herself in!
\nSky arrived with her brother, Albert, after a two-day journey by land, and they were both incredibly frightened and anxious. But she’s developed good mobility over the last year and her confidence has improved alongside her health. Her zoomies are wonderful and so energetic, considering how she was when she first came home. She is bigger than Albert and will push him over if he has something she wants! She also takes over his bed and will eat his breakfast if she gets the chance. But Albert doesn't mind, and we make sure he doesn't miss out.
\n\n\nWe take life at her pace
\n
Sky loves lamb spaghetti and real meat treats best of all. She’s a very quick learner, and she knows how to catch a treat or tap with her foot. If she gets hold of a squeaky toy, she will squeak it a couple of times by jumping on it with her front feet and then howl like a wolf! She also loves hugs and sitting next to us.
\nWe take life at Sky's pace, slowly enough to keep her safe and secure. With some brilliant expert help, she’s adapted to life with us and is a wonderful, sweet, sensitive addition to our family. We can't imagine life without Sky and Albert.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Skip","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-skip","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDBAH/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAeby8pqWhnoslkH/xAAbEAACAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIREiEiI//aAAgBAQABBQLPaSo0hS9edYRJFIwmf//EABgRAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhEQ/9oACAEDAQE/Aaps3mH/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARABD/2gAIAQIBAT8BIxv/xAAbEAACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATFBAhEhEP/aAAgBAQAGPwKeuiPFm5RPCkbIs2f/xAAaEAEAAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhUTFB/9oACAEBAAE/IUq9Fglwq1Gso+x6AYOxQHr2Zm9BLgVjZgtLxcXqu3jP/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABBY+EH/xAAaEQACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARIUFR/9oACAEDAQE/ENBkpDTh/8QAGREBAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAREDFR/9oACAECAQE/EAbWWxbs/8QAHxABAQACAgEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAIUFRMXGBkbHw/9oACAEBAAE/ECpACiTtX5yRbQLs4x1GHm43aisje9fWFiQTzFXj9M1A0Nire/SYvQnnJl8gjaAIOHSUrUr7Z//Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/965541293ffb44618ecf9b442a2f95da/f9913/skip-carly-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/965541293ffb44618ecf9b442a2f95da/f836f/skip-carly-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/965541293ffb44618ecf9b442a2f95da/2244e/skip-carly-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/965541293ffb44618ecf9b442a2f95da/f9913/skip-carly-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Skip is a rescued Spanish Galgo. We’ve had him for just over a year. He was found chained up in a derelict barn, with just bread rolls around him that he’d been eating. He was also missing the lower part of a back leg.
\nA charity took him on, but he was incredibly nervous and unsure around people. They think his leg had been caught in a snare trap – who knows how long he had been like that.
\n\n\n\n\nHe walks on the new leg as if it was his own
\n
The only options were to amputate the leg or have a prosthetic made. I’m a vet nurse and I work in canine rehabilitation, so we made the decision to try the prosthetic. It was made bespoke for Skip by an amazing company in America and he hasn’t looked back.
\nNow, he walks on the new leg all the time, as if it was his own. Though he’s still shy at times, he’s grown so much in confidence, and he helps us raise funds for the charity who rescued him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Skye","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-skye","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f9992831c6d3f32fe23caef074769254/f9913/skye-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f9992831c6d3f32fe23caef074769254/f836f/skye-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f9992831c6d3f32fe23caef074769254/2244e/skye-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f9992831c6d3f32fe23caef074769254/f9913/skye-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Skye is the best thing to ever come into my life. I have suffered with depression since I was 14, I am now 28 but the past four years with her have been a game changer.
\nBecause of my dog, I wake up with a smile on my face every day. She understands when I'm down, comes and gives me a comforting paw and then gives me all of the loose socks around the house. As its socks that make her the happiest, I assume she thinks they will make me happy too. Along with her beaming and infectious smile, they’re enough to turn even the hardest person into a melted puddle.
\n\n\nSkye has changed my life
\n
Skye has changed my perspective so much that I'm able to see the positive side to life nowadays. I can see the simple things that make a dog happy and that has changed the way I think about things. I'm now a happy person who enjoys going out and socializing. I went through periods where I wouldn't leave the house for weeks on end, struggling to deal with my thoughts. Having Skye has given me the strength to be able to leave the house and also engage with people.
\nShe doesn't allow me to avoid people as she is the most sociable dog anyone has ever seen. She loves people so much that it’s rubbed off onto me. Skye has done more for me than I will ever be able to express in words. She is everything to me. Every moment I get to spend with such a beautiful creature is a moment cherished.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sissy","tags":["Adult","Small","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sissy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQCAwX/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAedm+WVakHoRGsCb/8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxESBBMi/9oACAEBAAEFAr7bOzjuSmZp7IBgUqI64fUNP//EABoRAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhAREjH/2gAIAQMBAT8BSyakO1//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAeEAACAQMFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgAQERIhMUFhcf/aAAgBAQAGPwJlB0hy3BoWPMbuWVgPa3M//8QAHBABAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWFx/9oACAEBAAE/IcTAKPITLSbZ8TvHriVmttwAH6UIChzmNAMz/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDj34H/xAAYEQEBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABAxQf/aAAgBAwEBPxCyDuB3f//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEf/aAAgBAgEBPxBqrH//xAAdEAEBAQEAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAABEQBBUSExYXGB/9oACAEBAAE/EATCWUtkfTtMuu/ldNZ0/WfazZQSDSgCajkgYcDLRV87w1uQNHzgw1EX93//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/de4900eca2fe5bb51f39062bc9330b80/9a128/sissy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/de4900eca2fe5bb51f39062bc9330b80/f836f/sissy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/de4900eca2fe5bb51f39062bc9330b80/2244e/sissy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/de4900eca2fe5bb51f39062bc9330b80/9a128/sissy-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Every morning, Sissy wakes me with a bang on the door as she uses all of her tiny strength to batter her way into my bedroom. You would think she loves me, but really she just wants to curl up and sleep for an extra hour after my parents get up. She has a habit of curling up next to me like a freshly baked, fluffy cinnamon swirl – with her signature pink tail.
\nThe best times with Sissy are on our local beach in Conwy. As soon as she gets on the beach (after 200+ sniffs and wees) she fires off like a rocket, running at 100 mph, stopping only to lie on her back and do a wriggly breakdance in the sand.
\n\n\nSissy is the glue that holds us all together
\n
There are four of us in our family, and Sissy is the glue that holds us all together. My dad works on ships that go all over the world, and his goal is to leave a Sissy hair on every ship in the sea. We go nowhere without her – she has had her picture taken on the beach in Cannes, the Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland and next to a Ferrari in Monte Carlo.
\nThe best thing about Sissy is her affectionate nature and her often wonky looks. Having completed my PhD during the lockdowns, she was my loyal companion sitting on my knee with her head on the keyboard. Day after day, she was there to bring smiles to zoom meetings (and often a great excuse to leave them!).
\nShe can go from looking the best in show after a brush, to looking like a drunk Donald Trump after a good windswept breakdance on the beach. The most special thing about having her as a baby sister is waking up with her under my chin, snuggled up warm and peaceful.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sky","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-sky-deborah","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5870b6f70bd0453525920801a98fb46e/f9913/sky-deborah-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5870b6f70bd0453525920801a98fb46e/f836f/sky-deborah-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/5870b6f70bd0453525920801a98fb46e/2244e/sky-deborah-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/5870b6f70bd0453525920801a98fb46e/f9913/sky-deborah-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sky was a rescue puppy who found us when times were very low.
\nMy husband and I are keen mountain climbers and we love the outdoors, but he sustained an ankle and leg injury that stopped him walking.
\n\n\n\n\nEach day, we’re going further together
\n
Sky has been by his side throughout his recovery, and she has been his push towards walking again. Each day, we’re going further together. She is our magic mountain dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Skye","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-skye-alison","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/06f6f55a6ca0d0353cc29734cd14d057/f9913/skye-alison-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/06f6f55a6ca0d0353cc29734cd14d057/f836f/skye-alison-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/06f6f55a6ca0d0353cc29734cd14d057/2244e/skye-alison-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/06f6f55a6ca0d0353cc29734cd14d057/f9913/skye-alison-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Skye is a Border Collie who was born deaf. As she was unable to work the sheep, she was handed over to a shelter as a puppy for rehoming. We have three other rescue Border Collies so we knew she would feel safe with us.
\n\n\n\n\nNo one notices Skye is deaf – they just see a happy, healthy, loving dog
\n
She was in Northern Ireland at the time, so the adoption agency arranged for her to travel to us in Wales. Sadly, Covid hit and we had to wait seven months until she could travel. But we were so excited when she finally arrived.
\nSkye is now part of our family, and she makes us laugh every day. Her birthday is 1st January, so it’s always a happy new year. She sleeps on the back of the sofa and regularly falls asleep on her nose. She also understands sign language and loves her twice daily walks through the woods, where she’s able to run free of the lead. No one notices Skye is deaf – they just see a happy, healthy, loving dog.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sonic","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sonic","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/68ed668655270b7f2f93dbbd6d9fcff8/f9913/sonic-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/68ed668655270b7f2f93dbbd6d9fcff8/f836f/sonic-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/68ed668655270b7f2f93dbbd6d9fcff8/2244e/sonic-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/68ed668655270b7f2f93dbbd6d9fcff8/f9913/sonic-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sonic was a rescue dog. We adopted him in May 2019. We were told by the rescue centre that Sonic had a loving home as a puppy but, after the couple that owned him split up, he was left living on the streets.
\nHe eventually went to a shelter and was adopted by a woman who gave him up after two months. He then was adopted by a family who gave him back after just a week. After that, he went to a foster home and, finally, he came to us.
\nMy husband and I fell in love with him as soon as we saw his photo and read his story and, despite setting out to adopt a Labrador, we knew instantly that we needed Sonic in our lives. He was just three when he arrived, but we were his fifth home, so naturally it did take some time for him to settle in and trust us not to leave him again.
\n\n\nHe still thinks he can sit on my knee as if he were a little chihuahua!
\n
Sonic is a very sensitive boy. He was severely underweight when he came to us, but after lots of work he has gained some weight back. He still struggles with eating meals, but he does love tasty treats!
\nHe follows us around the house and is only calm and content when he’s cuddled up on my lap. He’s a big boy, and he’s very boisterous and energetic, with zero awareness of how large he is. He still thinks he can sit on my knee as if he were a little Chihuahua!
\nHe is very clumsy and cannot catch a treat in his mouth no matter how hard he tries. He loves being off the lead and runs for miles. He seems to have selective hearing when it comes to recall, but he always comes back eventually!
\nHe is a million miles away from the calm Labrador that we originally set out to adopt, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. Our home is chaotic, but he fills our lives with so much love and we, in turn, adore him!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Soldier","tags":["Adult","Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-soldier","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3a2140e34e68ecab58d45489e47389f4/f9913/soldier-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3a2140e34e68ecab58d45489e47389f4/f836f/soldier-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3a2140e34e68ecab58d45489e47389f4/2244e/soldier-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3a2140e34e68ecab58d45489e47389f4/f9913/soldier-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Soldier amazes me on a daily basis because he lives life as if he’s ‘normal’. Our story together started when he was just five weeks old. He was born with a spinal defect and couldn’t use his hind legs normally, so he wasn’t able to walk.
\nAs I own a canine hydrotherapy centre with physiotherapists, we thought we could help. However, after weeks and weeks of hard work, Soldier still couldn’t walk normally. So eventually we decided to have a set of wheels made in America that were specially measured for him. Twelve months later, he is now on his big boy wheels and doing amazingly. He can use his back legs sporadically, which helps him move along at some speed!
\n\n\nAll I see is a dog full of light who’s just living his best life
\n
Soldier absolutely loves his independence on wheels. He keeps up with our other dogs with absolutely no problems. When he comes out on walks, he never gets left behind and is definitely the happiest boy I’ve come across!
\nSome people pass us and tut or say ‘poor dog’ but all I see is a dog full of light who doesn’t know any different and is just living his best life. He runs through fields and woodlands, and paddles in rivers and lakes. He still loves to swim too – I just put him in a life jacket, lift him out of his wheels and let him go.
\nSoldier won’t have a long life, but we make the most of every day together. And for as long as he’s not in pain, he’ll continue to be my superhero!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sonny","tags":["Adorable","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sonny","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/56e922b50fec862ff0d39ead0e5fa3dd/f9913/sonny-sian-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/56e922b50fec862ff0d39ead0e5fa3dd/f836f/sonny-sian-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/56e922b50fec862ff0d39ead0e5fa3dd/2244e/sonny-sian-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/56e922b50fec862ff0d39ead0e5fa3dd/f9913/sonny-sian-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sonny is such a character, I'm not sure where to begin. We did a 1,000-mile round trip to get him! After leaving Shetland, the most northerly island in Scotland, we travelled 14 hours overnight on a ferry and then drove all the way from Aberdeen to Herefordshire on the Welsh/English border.
\n\n\nWe did a 1,000-mile round trip to get him!
\n
After picking him up, we spent a night in Blackpool and drove all the way back up, staying at dog-friendly services by Kendall and getting back on the boat for another night to get him home. All in the heat of 2017 summer – it was 34°C on the day we picked him up!
\nI could have gotten a dog closer to home, but I knew he was the one. I'd previously worked with his owner (a veterinary surgeon) and his mother was the best Labrador I'd ever met – well-behaved, loving and smiled on command!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sophie","tags":["Adult","Funny","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sophie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/422422dcfeade3180b306d83cb6c90eb/f9913/sophie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/422422dcfeade3180b306d83cb6c90eb/f836f/sophie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/422422dcfeade3180b306d83cb6c90eb/2244e/sophie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/422422dcfeade3180b306d83cb6c90eb/f9913/sophie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog Sophie is always happy and endlessly excited by the simple things. She reminds me how important it is to find the good in each and every day.
\nAll my life, I’ve suffered from panic attacks, and my beautiful dog Sophie has helped me to deal with these enormously. I’m also an insomniac, and when I’m struggling to sleep, I really appreciate the comfort of her warm, fluffy body curled up by my side.
\nWe love to walk together, which helps to keep me fit, and we often meet with friends and fellow dog lovers which can be really uplifting. Poor Sophie has an autoimmune problem, so her medication has meant she’s become a little stocky with age. But this doesn’t stop here from bounding around, attempting ridiculous jumps and just generally enjoying the great outdoors.
\n\n\nThe joy she brings me every day
\n
Sophie is very funny and has many little quirks, and she loves to pinch socks and clothes. On one occasion, she actually ran into my neighbour’s open patio door and came out with a pair of his underpants hanging from her mouth! She looked terribly pleased with herself, though I didn’t share that sentiment. Fortunately, the neighbour was also a dog person and found it funny too.
\nMy beloved mother recently passed away, and having Sophie by my side gave me the courage I needed to care for her and the strength to keep going. Like many others, I’ve found that having a furry friend through lockdown has been immensely helpful. I thank Sophie for the joy she brings me every day, and hope that in return, I can give her a very happy and fulfilling life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Spirit","tags":["Support Dogs","Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-spirit","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/edc4f74f0fc2458bf35ed7aad6404227/f9913/spirit-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/edc4f74f0fc2458bf35ed7aad6404227/f836f/spirit-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/edc4f74f0fc2458bf35ed7aad6404227/2244e/spirit-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/edc4f74f0fc2458bf35ed7aad6404227/f9913/spirit-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Spirit came to me as a rescue dog. She was very troubled with behavioural issues, but that hasn’t stopped her from massively improving my life for the better.
\nI have suffered with depression, anxiety and panic attacks, but training and rehabilitating Spirit has given me something to focus on. It’s forced me to get up every morning on days when I’ve wanted to stay in bed and hide from the world. Together, we have built up a successful dog walking business and now I’ve gained qualifications, I can even help other people with their dogs.
\n\n\nRehabilitating Spirit has given me something to focus on
\n
As Spirit is getting older and her mobility is failing, we are now doing Mantrailing, which involves training dogs to find missing people. She’s shown me such love and devotion over the years,and I’d be lost without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sox","tags":["Adult","Small","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sox","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d26d7dd997830c8a1d62b0661bbb6b54/f9913/sox-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d26d7dd997830c8a1d62b0661bbb6b54/f836f/sox-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d26d7dd997830c8a1d62b0661bbb6b54/2244e/sox-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d26d7dd997830c8a1d62b0661bbb6b54/f9913/sox-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sox is such a positive influence in my family’s life. He’s a quirky little dog who manages to make friends with any species, whether that be dogs, people or highland cattle! He is best friends with some highland cattle calves, who always vocalise when they want to see him.
\n\n\nHe is best friends with some highland cattle calves
\n
Often Sox will bring his toys out around the house, but then refuses to give them up, turning it into a game of chase. He also likes to climb up onto his dad after his dinner, nip his earlobe after giving him tons of kisses, and then fall onto his back for cuddles as shown in his photo. Plus, he loves to cuddle and play about with his 14-year-old Collie-Lab brother, Max, who’s sometimes a bit grumpy with him.
\nSox has this thing about crawling along the floor using one of his back legs to propel him forwards – he’s been doing this since we got him back in 2016! He’s a Lakeland Terrier crossed with a Jack Russell Terrier so he’s a bundle of energy and full of character. But we wouldn’t have him any other way.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Spot","tags":["Adult","Funny","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-spot","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/85322251c7db6941a07c8944c36f18e3/f9913/spot-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/85322251c7db6941a07c8944c36f18e3/f836f/spot-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/85322251c7db6941a07c8944c36f18e3/2244e/spot-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/85322251c7db6941a07c8944c36f18e3/f9913/spot-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Spot is the goofiest, most in-your-face boy dog you could ever meet. He has a lovely teddy bear face with a big black nose and a brown spot on his head, which is how he got his name.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s the most in-your-face boy dog you could ever meet
\n
He’s generous with his kisses, and his drool if he sees any food. When he runs, he does this funny little skip and wiggles his bum. He's also very, very clever but not always in a good way (don’t ask me about the bar of chocolate and the huge vet bill!).
\nHe constantly amuses us with his futile attempts at catching the pigeons, who torment him from the top of the fence. And he has selective hearing. Spot is Spot and we love him to bits!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sprocket","tags":["Family","Funny","Class of 19/23","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-sprocket","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b18fd0649022c4ab5e564b40e2beefc8/f9913/sprocket-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b18fd0649022c4ab5e564b40e2beefc8/f836f/sprocket-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b18fd0649022c4ab5e564b40e2beefc8/2244e/sprocket-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b18fd0649022c4ab5e564b40e2beefc8/f9913/sprocket-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sprocket is the best thing to ever have happened to our family. His endearing quirks never fail to put a smile on our faces. For instance, he always runs with his legs so straight he looks like a cartoon, and in the evening, he huffs and puffs very loudly before dramatically opening his pen, just to let us know he wants to go to bed.
\n\n\nHe can sometimes be a bit of a diva
\n
He’s a tiny bundle of energy and always ready to play. I wouldn’t say he’s spoilt, but he is well-loved and so always enjoys – and expects – a cuddle or two in our bed. He can sometimes be bit of a diva, and we often find ourselves having to pause the TV because he’s making a racket by digging around or barking because he wants to go out.
\nNone of this really matters though, because our little pup is such a sweetheart. We love him for all of his funny habits and his adorable personality.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sprocket","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sprocket-carla","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/20938ff15b3f89663e5a0226abf499c1/f9913/sprocket-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/20938ff15b3f89663e5a0226abf499c1/f836f/sprocket-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/20938ff15b3f89663e5a0226abf499c1/2244e/sprocket-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/20938ff15b3f89663e5a0226abf499c1/f9913/sprocket-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Sprocket is our first dog. It took us a while to decide whether getting a dog was for us, but it was without a doubt the best decision we have ever made as a family. Sprocket is such a lovely boy – he's a working Cocker Spaniel so is full of energy and enthusiasm for life. He has a wonderful, sweet temperament and wouldn't hurt a fly. He loves his walks and taking him out in the countryside is an absolute joy.
\n\n\nHe joins in with everything we do
\n
As we’ve never had a dog before, we didn't realise just how much they become a part of your family. Sprocket plays a huge role in all our lives, and we couldn't bear to be without him. He joins in with everything we do,from kayaking to camping. He is very funny and has mad moments where he zooms around the house. He also likes to do his ‘happy howl’, which wethink is him telling us how much he’s enjoying life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"The StreetVet story","tags":null,"slug":"meet-streetvet","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3d011c7e12165e0c316090410103bfde/f9913/streetvet-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3d011c7e12165e0c316090410103bfde/f836f/streetvet-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3d011c7e12165e0c316090410103bfde/2244e/streetvet-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3d011c7e12165e0c316090410103bfde/f9913/streetvet-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Set up four years ago by two vets with a backpack, StreetVet has since grown into a charity with hundreds of veterinary volunteers with boots on the ground outreaching in 17 different locations across the UK.
\nBut despite this rapid growth, the ethos remains the same – to do everything we can to keep our clients and their pets together and preserve the human animal bond. In many cases this bond is the only thing that sustains a homeless person, and sometimes it is this same bond that can turn their lives around.
\nAs the co-founder of the charity, I am reminded on a daily basis of why I wanted to set up StreetVet in the first place. As is often the case, it was a chance encounter, but an encounter that would change the course of my life.
\nAt the time I was dealing with the prospect of losing one of the true loves of my life – my geriatric Labrador and soul mate through some tough times, Oakley. Oakley had just been diagnosed with inoperable cancer and it was while I was dealing with this news that I encountered Dave and his dog Brick.
\nBrick was suffering from itchy sore skin. This was something I knew I could help with and as Dave and I talked dogs, the anxiety he felt about accessing veterinary care was notable.\nAs I walked away I had one clear thought, what would I have done if I was in that position with Oakley?
\nI knew that if I’d what I needed in my bag, I could have helped Brick and for me that was where StreetVet was born – from my own bond with Oakley and Dave’s connection to Brick. Having now worked with countless homeless clients, I wouldn't hesitate to say that in my 18 years as a vet, the most symbiotic and profound relationships I have been privileged to witness, have been through StreetVet.
\nThese are the special relationships which truly embody the human animal bond, a bond best expressed by a selection of clients StreetVet has been supporting throughout the coronavirus crisis.
\n\n\"If I was separated from my dog it would kill me. I've had no mental support since 2014 but my dog is my main mental health support. I'd rather risk my life in a pandemic than be separated from my dog.\" – Mick talking about his dog Benson.
\n\"When you are stood there hungry and people are walking by like you don't exist, my dog gives me a role. It's like having another heartbeat that is on your side. It's company, he's all the family I have got. He's my moral support. He is everything.\" – Andy about his dog Bailey.
\nThe words are different but the sentiment is the same; companion animals make a difficult life worth living. In a lonely and often brutal world, the pets of homeless people provide companionship, security, warmth and unconditional love.
\nStreetVet clients often refer to their pet as their family and I am in no doubt pet ownership enhances our clients social, physical and emotional health. They provide a sense of routine, responsibility, an identity – even a reason to live. But owning a pet on the streets comes at a cost.
\nAs well as the restrictions put on our clients when it comes to mobility, owning a dog can often prevent access to soup kitchens, healthcare and hostel rooms. Imagine being told to choose between a roof over your head or your pet. It’s a choice none of us would want to make, but with only 10 percent of homeless hostels in the UK accepting pets, it's one facing StreetVet's clients every day.
\nThe fact our clients almost always choose to stay on the street and refuse to relinquish their pet is one of the most powerful examples of the human animal connection at work. This is why we are launching the StreetVet Accredited Hostel Scheme, a project that aims to increase the number of UK hostels that are willing to accept pets. This is the next step in the StreetVet story...
\n\n\"Sasha has been my world for the last seven years. I have never known a dog to show so much love and affection like she has. She spent time living in a tent with me and her brother Max, who passed away a few weeks ago. She was gutted, you could just tell by her demeanour. Sasha is a very happy dog always got a wag on her tail and lives to meet new people. She is one of the best dogs I have ever had and if it wasn't for Max and Sasha I don’t know where I would be today.\"
\n\nThe companionship and interaction that my dog offers me is very different from my human interaction. Although humans communicate with speech, it has its limitations. Humans struggle to say the right words and the right thing when what we really need is the support to simply be there for each other. Dogs cannot talk, yet are superior in detecting the feelings of humans and are simply there when it is required. My dog offers me a level of speech that words do not; a level of communication, companionship that is deeper and more satisfying that at times human interaction just simply cannot.
\n\nI rescued Diamond from central London about three or four years ago. Then we came back to Windsor. Diamond is a bit of a character like myself. Diamond was really shy and scared. She used to sleep at the bottom of my sleeping bag. Eventually as, time went by on the streets, Diamond got to know everyone – and everyone knows Diamond. Now all the kids love to say ‘ello!’
\nWe moved into our first home together about six months ago. She’s ok with it, but prefers to be on the streets, meeting people. Whenever Diamond needs to see the vets, StreetVet have always been there. The girls are brilliant with her. Sometimes Diamond gets worried when she sees them, but when the treats come out, Diamond’s attitude changes and she goes all soppy with them. We don’t know what we would do without them.
\n\nListen close for I need to say
\nMy girls mean the world to me in every single way,
\nThey hold a place within my heart
\nThat only the special can fill,
\nThey show much love and definitely don’t judge,
\nThe wrong things I may do,
\nBut choose instead to stand by my side
\nAnd helped to see me through,
\nTheir praise for a small success
\nThey never fail to show
\nAnd even when I don’t achieve their encouragement helps me so,
\nThey say two is company and three a crowd
\nBut three formed our family
\nWith love so pure I’d never found,
\nThere’s no words or numbers out there that can compare
\nJust what they mean to me and more when no one’s there,
\nWe can now stop looking for love from far and beyond
\nFor now we are a family with an unbreakable bond.
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.
\nIn 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.
\n\n\nStorm has turned my life around
\n
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.
\nWith Storm in my life, I’m so excited to see what adventures the future holds for both of us.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sully","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sully","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3f2d9a566878c8de508866a57df55f3f/f9913/sully-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3f2d9a566878c8de508866a57df55f3f/f836f/sully-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3f2d9a566878c8de508866a57df55f3f/2244e/sully-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3f2d9a566878c8de508866a57df55f3f/f9913/sully-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Deep down Sully is a big softie at heart, very loyal to my wife and I. He gets nervous when out and likes to cuddle his teddy – in fact, he is so attached to it that he’s been known to carry it around with him on his walks!
\n\n\nHe loves to go fishing with me
\n
We do walk together a lot, but he loves to go fishing with me. He goes mad when I catch a fish, watching my line until I bring it in. He sits there for hours with me. We also go to watch my daughter play football, and he’ll sit on my lap while the game is going on.
\nIf my wife gives him a biscuit in the morning before going out, he won’t eat it until he has shown it to me when I come home in the afternoon. All it takes for us is to say to him ‘where’s the cat?’ and he’ll go up the garden barking like mad, even though there is no cat!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sunny","tags":["Puppy","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-sunny","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c5a3ab1a6630e5cebfeec964c01cc789/f9913/sunny-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c5a3ab1a6630e5cebfeec964c01cc789/f836f/sunny-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c5a3ab1a6630e5cebfeec964c01cc789/2244e/sunny-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c5a3ab1a6630e5cebfeec964c01cc789/f9913/sunny-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When Sunny was born, she was the only survivor of her litter, so she’s been both a blessing and a miracle to our family.
\nShe’s a confident ball of energy who enjoys nothing more than digging, jumping over anything in sight and climbing trees (yes, she climbs trees). When she isn’t doing that, she’s exploring new sights and smells.
\nSunny had her first experience on a beach in Whitby recently. Then a week later, it was her first time in knee-deep snow. She loves a visit to a café for a doggy ice cream or two, while she curiously watches her fellow dog pals.
\nSunny has brought so much joy to our lives, and she gives us a reason to carry on when times get tough. We have big plans for our girl to live out a full life with us, and we’ll never stop adventuring.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Suzie","tags":["Puppy","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-suzie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGQABAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQIF/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAdYp5U5DIvVy2oE//8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgMBEQAhBBAS/9oACAEBAAEFAlpKVtHx0ophR7A9FxrPKsiii//EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEgIf/aAAgBAwEBPwGBP//EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARAS/9oACAECAQE/AcyxX//EABwQAQABBAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAhARITFhgf/aAAgBAQAGPwIcgM5t7qGSzTlDqbt//8QAGxAAAwEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERITFBUYH/2gAIAQEAAT8h5HwMvpP2H4IqmUGxCzaxG1YzYfIEQp1zopiXh//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQFCd9/8QAGREAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERITEQ/9oACAEDAQE/ENrhitSPFz//xAAYEQEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABADERIf/aAAgBAgEBPxALwbKHjGs3/8QAHRABAQACAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBUXGx0f/aAAgBAQABPxCipbG3S/mbtH8MN1Vb8ZR9Qsb2375yEE0kp4zGE9mnDE6rQOXfWFPqJVc43lDP/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cc96e38c559b76b876208972a02e5ba7/f9913/suzie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cc96e38c559b76b876208972a02e5ba7/f836f/suzie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/cc96e38c559b76b876208972a02e5ba7/2244e/suzie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/cc96e38c559b76b876208972a02e5ba7/f9913/suzie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nShe gives us a reason to carry on when times get tough
\n
I wasn't the one who wanted a dog. We'd had one many years before, and it broke our hearts when she had to be put down due to illness. But when my hubby showed me a picture of this little ball of fur (Suzie is a Toy Poodle), the first hurdle was over!
\nWe visited her and brought her home the same day. Immediately, I was under her thumb. Suzie spends most of her days with 'Dad' and greets me as though I've been away for months, not hours. She likes her walks and playing with her ball over the big fields. She loves helping around the garden and sitting on her dad's lap for a snooze and sunbathe.
\n\n\n\n\nShe makes home life that little bit sweeter for us all
\n
She's with me most evenings – it's almost like we’re tied together by two feet of invisible string. We play with her favourite doughnut toy, and I've found myself reading my book out loud as if she's listening! She sleeps in her upstairs bed on the floor next to me. I always have to say ‘night night’, or she won't settle down.
\nShe also sits in front of me, does a little wave of her paws and 'talks' when she wants attention. Suzie’s a little ball of fur that makes home life that little bit sweeter for us all.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Sylvie","tags":["Adult","Adorable"],"slug":"meet-sylvie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a45c727c48f9a27ddfb09c61d2fe2397/f9913/sylvie-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a45c727c48f9a27ddfb09c61d2fe2397/f836f/sylvie-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/a45c727c48f9a27ddfb09c61d2fe2397/2244e/sylvie-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/a45c727c48f9a27ddfb09c61d2fe2397/f9913/sylvie-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our Sylvie is a Dalmatian cross Collie which means she’s all energy, stamina and chaos, but she’s our little cuddle bug, too!
\nShe takes very good care of us humans and is an unofficial wellbeing officer when we’re working from home. If work ever leaves us feeling stressed, she climbs up onto our laps and won’t move until we’ve had a lovely de-stressing cuddle (and face lick).
\n\n\n\n\nWe’re very lucky to have such a wonderful dog in our lives
\n
She’s also learning DIY support, meaning she’s getting quite good at taking the tools away (now we’re just working on bringing them back!).
\nHer favourite games are hide and seek, chasing a ball and of course, anything that involves tearing up paper.
\nSylvie makes every day brighter and we wouldn’t be without our sock-stealing, cheese-loving friend. We’re very lucky to have such a wonderful dog in our lives.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Swizzle","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23","Small"],"slug":"meet-swizzle","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7ce1b1e4eab37fe34a94ab7dac4c877c/f9913/swizzle-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7ce1b1e4eab37fe34a94ab7dac4c877c/f836f/swizzle-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7ce1b1e4eab37fe34a94ab7dac4c877c/2244e/swizzle-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7ce1b1e4eab37fe34a94ab7dac4c877c/f9913/swizzle-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Swizzle is our miniature black and tan Dachshund. He’s changed our lives for the better in so many different ways, like helping to keep us active. One of our favourite things to do now is go for a long walk, and without Swizzle, we would never have discovered some of the nature trails or beautiful sites in our local area.
\nHaving Swizzle also means we can’t be picky – we have to go for a walk come rain or shine. Getting outside no matter what has helped to improve our mental health, especially in these difficult times we’re all facing.
\n\n\nHe’s changed our lives for the better
\n
Swizzle makes us laugh everyday with his unique quirks. He always comes to sleep in our bed, but he doesn’t just curl up at the end – no, he lies with his head on the pillow, flat on his back, just like a human.
\nLike a typical Dachshund, he loves to bark out the window at other dogs passing by, and he gets particularly excited if he sees one that looks like him. We’re sure he thinks he owns the street outside our house!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Tamia","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-tamia","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/231c9311a29d9afa1231e462c65d61fe/f9913/tamia-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/231c9311a29d9afa1231e462c65d61fe/f836f/tamia-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/231c9311a29d9afa1231e462c65d61fe/2244e/tamia-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/231c9311a29d9afa1231e462c65d61fe/f9913/tamia-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Tamia came to live with us just over two years ago. We love having her and she goes just about everywhere with us – camping, events, markets etc.
\nWe always felt she was missing out on a doggy companion. Then last autumn, her breeder told us she had a deaf puppy and she needed to find the right home for him. When Tamia met him, they adored each other from the start.
\nThey are both trained using sign language. They play, travel and are generally inseparable. She is his ears and looks out for him. When we need to recall him in the field, we ask her to find him, and she brings him back. They are the most beautiful pair, and she’s the best big sister a deaf pup could have.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Tara","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-tara","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Greater London","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9509d3f6008d420917e626b9c7b92523/f9913/tara-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9509d3f6008d420917e626b9c7b92523/f836f/tara-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9509d3f6008d420917e626b9c7b92523/2244e/tara-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9509d3f6008d420917e626b9c7b92523/f9913/tara-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"She’s the best big sister a deaf pup could have
\n
Three years ago, I decided to adopt a rescue dog. Fate led me to a forlorn little puppy who had been saved from a life of cruelty – her name was Tara.
\nIt was a bumpy start. She was totally terrified and barely moved, having been mute the whole 12-hour car journey home. But with time, a lot of patience and unconditional love from me and my two gentle cats, she started to come out of her shell. She took two weeks to bark and it was months before she could sleep on her own, but slowly, her confidence grew and her beautiful fun, cuddly character emerged. She still prefers other animals to humans, but if you give her the time to get to know you, gaining her love and affection is a feeling like no other.
\n\n\nTogether, we’ll walk through life
\n
Adopting Tara has changed my life. I have Type 1 diabetes, which brings with it a realm of challenges. By focusing on protecting this vulnerable little pup and working to make her happy, I was distracted from my own dark thoughts. Through her I met fantastic new people in my area and got out and about, spending my days walking in nature instead of hiding at home.
\nNow we are a team and together, we’ll walk through life, looking out for each other and helping each other to grow. We are both the perfect example of how much good comes from accepting imperfection, and celebrating differences.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/81c0d9294378149234eaf9d012053e3d/f9913/teddy-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/81c0d9294378149234eaf9d012053e3d/f836f/teddy-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/81c0d9294378149234eaf9d012053e3d/2244e/teddy-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/81c0d9294378149234eaf9d012053e3d/f9913/teddy-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Teddy has a mischievous streak. Last Christmas, my mum made a super trifle. Unfortunately, no one noticed Teddy climb on the chair to reach the table, where he promptly started to eat it! My mum straightened up where he had nibbled and none of us noticed what he had done.
\n\n\nMy favourite thing about Teddy is the way he gives me so much love
\n
I had his DNA done, and he is a real mix – he’s part Dachshund, part Yorkshire Terrier and part Shih tzu!
\nMy favourite thing about Teddy is the way he gives me so much love and seems to know how I am feeling. I have a learning disability and Teddy is a fantastic support to me.
\nOnce a month he has a hydro session to help his front legs and ease his arthritis. He really enjoys this swimming and it is nice for him and me to do something together just the two of us.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ad062dad0158479d68cf0528828aa7dd/f9913/teddy-two-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ad062dad0158479d68cf0528828aa7dd/f836f/teddy-two-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ad062dad0158479d68cf0528828aa7dd/2244e/teddy-two-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ad062dad0158479d68cf0528828aa7dd/f9913/teddy-two-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Teddy came into the vets where I work needing a home. My little girl had been desperate for a dog for so long, and I knew straight away he was theone for us.
\n\n\nI knew straight away he was the one for us
\n
We brought him home just before the first lockdown and he is the best thing that could have happened to us. He became my daughter’s best friend and helped her get through a really tough time. He also gets us out for walks in all weathers, which has been amazing for our fitness. He is like a snuggly little bear, and we feel like the luckiest dog owners in the world.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy","tags":["Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy-callum","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fac0d2a702b015cc03a0bf2b7fd539d9/f9913/teddy-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fac0d2a702b015cc03a0bf2b7fd539d9/f836f/teddy-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fac0d2a702b015cc03a0bf2b7fd539d9/2244e/teddy-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fac0d2a702b015cc03a0bf2b7fd539d9/f9913/teddy-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Teddy is a real character. I’m sure he thinks he’s a cat, as I’ll often find him attempting to climb the cat tree, which never ends well for him! He sure knows how to have fun – one minute he’ll be playing with his toys and the next he’s doing his famous Greyhound impression. He can also bea little terror, but no matter what he’s doing, he’ll always put a smile on your face.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Taz","tags":["Senior","Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-taz","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/eca4174a24d8a1646e52a79da6e9d588/f9913/taz-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/eca4174a24d8a1646e52a79da6e9d588/f836f/taz-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/eca4174a24d8a1646e52a79da6e9d588/2244e/taz-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/eca4174a24d8a1646e52a79da6e9d588/f9913/taz-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"He sure knows how to have fun
\n
I bought my Border Collie Taz just after my eldest son was born. He was just eight weeks old, and a bundle of trouble! I was suffering with anxiety and depression, and my partner at the time worked nights which left me alone with a new baby. From day one, Taz just seemed to know that I needed him. He would go and look round the house when I got worried and lie quietly by my side when I had panic attacks.
\nAs a ‘teen’ Taz became a handful. He was so cheeky, and very overprotective of me. We ended up going to obedience and agility classes which taught him how to be a helpful member of the household, while also bringing me out of my shell and allowing me to find myself again.
\n\n\nHe has been my only constant for 12 years
\n
Over the years, he has helped look after me through four pregnancies. He learnt to help me up from the floor when I was too big to do it myself. When my babies were born, he would fetch wet wipes and toys. He was my rock through a divorce and a very nasty breakup, and even though he isn’t a big fan of hugs, when I’m upset he lets me cry into his fur. He has been my only constant for 12 years.
\nWe have a cup of tea together every morning (he loves a decaf with oat milk in his very own mug), and he sleeps on the end of my bed. He is slowing down now, and we have a new puppy, Bruce, who Taz is training up ready for his retirement years. Taz is my dog of a lifetime, and I can honestly say I don't think I would be here without him.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy","tags":["Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy-claire","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7226a75ae88ec425d381a7d6139d8a61/f9913/teddy-claire-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7226a75ae88ec425d381a7d6139d8a61/f836f/teddy-claire-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7226a75ae88ec425d381a7d6139d8a61/2244e/teddy-claire-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7226a75ae88ec425d381a7d6139d8a61/f9913/teddy-claire-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My lovely Teddy has been the best possible medicine for me over the Covid-19 crisis. I work as a complex care nurse, and he helps me to unwind after a busy and stressful shift. There’s nothing better than being greeted at the door by my big, happy, soft boy.
\n\n\nHis happiness is contagious
\n
We like to go out as soon as I get home from work and walk in the local valley, Teddy chasing the squirrels and splashing about it the local stream. His happiness is contagious and I can soon feel the stress of the day leaving my body.
\nTeddy is true to his name, he is so soft and gentle. He loves to play with all the dogs in our local park and is a bit of a local star in our village, everyone knows him (my husband and myself, don’t get a look in!).
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy","tags":["Puppy","Adorable","Small","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy-jean","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/508c6001e9e5d95149391270c75a24f1/f9913/teddy-jean-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/508c6001e9e5d95149391270c75a24f1/f836f/teddy-jean-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/508c6001e9e5d95149391270c75a24f1/2244e/teddy-jean-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/508c6001e9e5d95149391270c75a24f1/f9913/teddy-jean-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Teddy is one of three pups my Chihuahua, Pip, gave birth to, which is why the two of us have such a close bond. One of the pups unfortunately died, but him and his brother both thrived and got lots of care from their mum.
\nSeeing him grow has really helped with my anxiety and other mental health issues, from the first time he opened his eyes to his first burst of personality and the many times he’s made me feel better.
\nTeddy is three quarters Chihuahua and a quarter Yorkie, which explains his great personality! He has explosive zoomies around the house and garden, he likes to show off how ‘buff’ he can be to other dogs, and he barks at his brother whenever he has a bone.
\nTeddy loves playing and he’s loved almost every single toy or game he’s ever been introduced to. But the game he loves the most is being chased by his brother. Even though his legs are small, he can run super fast!
\nOverall, Ted’s really improved my wellbeing, as I’m always happy to go home and see him and receive his little kisses. It’s like he understands my bad days and good days.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy Bear","tags":["Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy-bear","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2b4d8e39baf33bf4c73921ed8de0d7cc/f9913/teddy-bear-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2b4d8e39baf33bf4c73921ed8de0d7cc/f836f/teddy-bear-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2b4d8e39baf33bf4c73921ed8de0d7cc/2244e/teddy-bear-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2b4d8e39baf33bf4c73921ed8de0d7cc/f9913/teddy-bear-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nI’m always happy to go home and see him
\n
While living in Canada in 2014, we visited an event called Bark in the Park and came across Teddy Bear who was offered for adoption. He melted my heart and as my husband worked away from home, knew he would be the perfect company for my son and I. He came home with us that day and we have never regretted it for a moment.
\nHe joined our family and immediately became boss. His nickname was ‘Houdini’ as he managed to escape out of four crates – let's just say it was his way of telling us he hated to be penned in.
\nIn 2016 we decided to move back to the UK and flew Teddy back on the same flight with us. We could never have left him behind.
\n\n\nHe melted my heart
\n
He's a big dog, German Shepherd and Husky cross. It took him some time to adjust to the new urban lifestyle as he missed the snow, but with lots of fuss from family he soon became a member of their family too. Teddy loves being outside so we taught him to ring a bell with his nose when he wants to go out – and yes, he rings them all the time!
\nHis favourite thing to do is play ball. He’s a very clever pooch and loves to talk when he wants attention and cuddles. He also loves to be bushed and will just sit there all day wanting to be petted, brushed or massaged.
\nHe also has a quirky one ear up and one ear down so always looks cute. As my husband works away Monday to Friday Teddy has become my main companion. My working life revolves around Teddy to ensure he is not left alone too long. He is my youngest baby and my best friend.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy","tags":["Adorable","Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy-stuart","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2523b4b1394e4a2c012ac119ee8f76ad/f9913/teddy-stuart-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2523b4b1394e4a2c012ac119ee8f76ad/f836f/teddy-stuart-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2523b4b1394e4a2c012ac119ee8f76ad/2244e/teddy-stuart-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2523b4b1394e4a2c012ac119ee8f76ad/f9913/teddy-stuart-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Just as my parents before me, we finally succumbed to my daughter’s persistent requests to get a puppy. A few months later we arrived home with Teddy, a 12-week-old Golden Retriever. I’ll admit, before Teddy I never would have classed myself as a dog-fanatic – but oh how my opinion has changed!
\nI'm 51 and have suffered with severe anxiety all my life, but Teddy’s smiling face and unconditional love have uplifted me beyond belief. I had could never have imagined the positive impact he’d have on my wellbeing, but he really has had a hugely profound impact on all of our lives.
\n\n\nUplifted me beyond belief
\n
Because of my anxiety, I tend to wake up very early every morning, which can be frustrating. But now that I have Teddy I’ve started using that time to get out for a walk in the woods, which always helps me to start the day in a better mood. Watching him bound around and explore with such energy and relentless enthusiasm just makes me so happy. He’s always so determined to catch a bird, but hasn’t yet grasped the fact that he can’t fly!
\nBefore Teddy, I never truly understood what it meant when people referred to dogs as ‘man’s best friend’ – but now, I couldn’t be without him. Just looking at his smiling face fills me with joy and makes me feel optimistic about the day ahead.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Teddy","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-teddy-michelle","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5f2f1f483de3f4d65c9f35cac41d8791/f9913/teddy-michelle-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5f2f1f483de3f4d65c9f35cac41d8791/f836f/teddy-michelle-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5f2f1f483de3f4d65c9f35cac41d8791/2244e/teddy-michelle-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5f2f1f483de3f4d65c9f35cac41d8791/f9913/teddy-michelle-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I grew up with dogs, as did my husband. So, when we got married, we decided we wanted to get our own dog. My husband had grown up with Tibetan Terriers and said we had to get one. I’d never heard of the breed, but I did a bit of research, found a breeder and Teddy came along in August 2019. He totally changed our lives!
\n\n\n\n\nEveryone says their dog is the best, but I know mine really is
\n
Teddy is stubborn, fussy, wonderfully intelligent, independent, loving on his own terms, funny, playful, and full of character. He’s almost human and loves being outside – he’d probably live outside if I let him!
\nHe’s the total opposite to the dogs I had growing up, but I wouldn’t change him for the world, and I’d never get a different breed now. I can’t put into words how much I love my furry boy. He’s loved so much, and he knows it! Everyone says their dog is the best, but I know mine really is.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Thelma","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-thelma","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBAwT/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAQP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAaxzy29CVk4FUEf/xAAbEAEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhExQQAhQv/aAAgBAQABBQLuyVg2bSo45525/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQ/9oACAEDAQE/Aaz/xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD/2gAIAQIBAT8BqP/EABoQAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERABACElH/2gAIAQEABj8CQjAvXFh9s1//xAAZEAEBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMWH/2gAIAQEAAT8hWMrLlXgLboCZOUY+ZHgcRXHE14dVD7nn/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABD3yAH/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARExQf/aAAgBAwEBPxCsS5DT/8QAGBEAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAFBITH/2gAIAQIBAT8Qd0RWcI//xAAeEAEAAwEAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAABABExQSFRcYGx8f/aAAgBAQABPxBRKSs4VNFuwSjkLBJftPKRBsNb+S0cVeIXX4PuOkc76y71rLmcAPS45gyf/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/107f9ee2ff77669ffdc5e0b3e4a9fbf8/f9913/thelma-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/107f9ee2ff77669ffdc5e0b3e4a9fbf8/f836f/thelma-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/107f9ee2ff77669ffdc5e0b3e4a9fbf8/2244e/thelma-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/107f9ee2ff77669ffdc5e0b3e4a9fbf8/f9913/thelma-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dog gave me my life back. I suffer from Anxiety and Depression and a few years ago, I couldn't speak and didn’t leave the house. My dad found an opportunity to train dogs for a charity, so I plucked up the courage and applied. A few months later a little eight-week-old Golden Retriever called Thelma came into our lives. She was a cute, golden ball of fluff who quickly melted our hearts. She is the best thing to ever happen to me.
\n\n\nMade our lives so much better!
\n
Her smiley face and silly ways have brought us all so much joy. She alerts me when I'm having an anxiety attack by nudging me and giving me a cuddle, which really calms me down. This has helped me to leave the house on my own and find my voice again, because when I’m with her people don’t want to talk to me – it’s Thelma they’re interested in!
\nThelma is the most happy, caring and loving dog you will ever meet, and she’ll always give you lots of kisses! She loves eating (who doesn't?) and helping people. She can pick things up for me, put things in the washer and out again and even does the dusting.
\nEveryone that meets her agrees she’s an amazing dog. Without her, I wouldn’t have a job or be where I am in life today. She’s changed my whole world and I couldn’t be without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Theo","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Funny"],"slug":"meet-theo","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/66d4c3ed93fc5bdf9f28eea074926df6/f9913/theo-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/66d4c3ed93fc5bdf9f28eea074926df6/f836f/theo-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/66d4c3ed93fc5bdf9f28eea074926df6/2244e/theo-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/66d4c3ed93fc5bdf9f28eea074926df6/f9913/theo-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Theo, our beloved rescue dog, has had a tremendously positive influence on our lives. From the moment we brought him home, he’s been a calming presence – always ready to offer comfort and snuggles.
\nWith his big, cuddly frame and friendly demeanour, Theo has a way of easing any stress or anxiety I might be feeling after a long day. After all, who doesn't love doggy tail wags and hugs?
\nOne of Theo's favourite quirks is playing ‘go find’ with treats. He loves using his keen sense of smell to track down hidden goodies, and his excitement when he finds them is contagious. Watching him sniff around and wag his tail in anticipation always brings a smile to my face.
\n\n\n\n\nTheo's presence in my life has been a true blessing
\n
As well as this, Theo is a smart and eager learner when it comes to tricks. He can speak on command, play dead, and even give me his paw with just a simple gesture.
\nI love seeing him jump through long grass like a kangaroo. His joy is evident as he bounds through the tall blades, popping up his big head now and again in the sun!
\nOverall, Theo's presence in my life has been a true blessing. His calming nature, playful quirks, and boundless love have brought so much joy and positivity into my world. I am grateful every day for my sweet, loyal, and endlessly entertaining best friend, Theo.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Millie","tags":["Adorable","Brave","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-thor-toki","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/27bbdadeac371de6640d1039832b7abe/f9913/thor-loki-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/27bbdadeac371de6640d1039832b7abe/f836f/thor-loki-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/27bbdadeac371de6640d1039832b7abe/2244e/thor-loki-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/27bbdadeac371de6640d1039832b7abe/f9913/thor-loki-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Loki came to me as a five-month-old pup. Sadly, he needed one of his front legs removing following an accident. Having only three legs has never slowed him down, and his enthusiasm for life is infectious. He has walked up mountains with me, gone camping in Scotland and assisted me in the running of my B&B. Currently, he’s supervising the new patio area we’re creating, which I’m sure he’ll love to sunbathe in!
\n\n\nI sometimes see Loki roll his eyes at Thor
\n
Loki may be small, but he has a large personality and an even bigger heart. He loves our other dog, Thor. They’re so funny together, and I’m sure I sometimes see Loki roll his eyes at Thor when he’s being silly. It’s so adorable to see them snuggled up or enjoying a game of tug and war.
\nMy dogs are my whole world, and I’m so glad Loki found me when he needed my help.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Tiggy and Bumble","tags":["Adorable","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-tiggy-bumble","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d4846706e9d4a8b61b2e9ec990803ee8/f9913/tiggy-bumble-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d4846706e9d4a8b61b2e9ec990803ee8/f836f/tiggy-bumble-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d4846706e9d4a8b61b2e9ec990803ee8/2244e/tiggy-bumble-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d4846706e9d4a8b61b2e9ec990803ee8/f9913/tiggy-bumble-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We are lucky to have two beautiful dogs – Tiggy the springer, who turns two in September, and Bumble, who turns one in May.
\nAfter a very testing tour in the Middle East with the forces from 2019 to 2021, when we had to rehome our three beautiful dogs, coming home to the UK and being able to have dogs straight away was so important.
\n\n\nThey bring so much fun to our family
\n
They make us all happier and Bumble in particular does not miss a chance for a walk. So, you should never put your jacket on until you’re completely ready to go.
\nTiggy, our little springer, is amazingly calm in the house and she cuddles in like a human. They both bring happiness, calm and so much fun to our family.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Tilly","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-tilly","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d203e8c0be8eff27f2c0ca9fb31eaf34/f9913/tilly-sam-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d203e8c0be8eff27f2c0ca9fb31eaf34/f836f/tilly-sam-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/d203e8c0be8eff27f2c0ca9fb31eaf34/2244e/tilly-sam-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/d203e8c0be8eff27f2c0ca9fb31eaf34/f9913/tilly-sam-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Tilly is my best friend. She was my companion through both my marriage breakup and my son’s terrible time with his mental health.
\nWe have complete trust between us. She caught her leg on a trampoline spring when she was two, and once we managed to release her, I held her until I handed her over to the vet.
\n\n\n\n\nWe have complete trust between us
\n
She lies next to me on the sofa of an evening, and she always likes to be touching me and giving me 'the look of love’, as I call it. She knows exactly what I’m saying and is a very quiet, thoughtful and intelligent friend. She loves cheese and slices of ham, and she’s very spoilt. She knows she’s my princess!
\nWe got her a new Whippet puppy friend called Sapphire (as she’s blue) this year, and Tilly has been very patient teaching her the ropes. She’s 13 now and getting visibly older, and I dread the day she will leave us.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Tilly","tags":["Support Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-tilly-and-anna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/57ee58018dd2c5aa57489fd834ca1a08/f9913/tilly-anna-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/57ee58018dd2c5aa57489fd834ca1a08/f836f/tilly-anna-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/57ee58018dd2c5aa57489fd834ca1a08/2244e/tilly-anna-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/57ee58018dd2c5aa57489fd834ca1a08/f9913/tilly-anna-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I wouldn’t be without my dog Tilly. Last year I had a nasty car accident and she got me through the low times. She’s full of mischief and such a great character. She’s not perfect – she’s got a crossbite so often shows off her tiny teeth – but she’s perfect to me.
\n\n\nShe got me through the low times
\n
Tilly is very affectionate. She loves to have a cuddle and be carried around. Though she’s also a very stubborn girl. She’s very much the boss of the family and has to be first with everything. She’ll often bite her ‘brother’ Scrappy’s ears, but he loves her just as I do. During the spring days, she loves to garden – digging holes and rolling in the mud!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Tilly","tags":["Puppy","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-tilly-rhiannon","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/32fff87a371f48383eca024c7cdd6edf/f9913/tilly-rhiannon-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/32fff87a371f48383eca024c7cdd6edf/f836f/tilly-rhiannon-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/32fff87a371f48383eca024c7cdd6edf/2244e/tilly-rhiannon-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/32fff87a371f48383eca024c7cdd6edf/f9913/tilly-rhiannon-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"At 62 years old, I got my very first dog. I didn't know I liked dogs until I met little Tilly, my Toy Poodle.
\n\n\n\n\nI now never have a bad day
\n
Tilly is my unconditionally loving companion, who has ensured I now never have a bad day. She sits on my bed every morning and eagerly waits for just one of my eyes to open. Then that is officially the start of happy time.
\nShe faceplants me with licks and hugs me between her paws. Her zest for discovery, fun and nature has given me back my purpose in life.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Thor","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-thor","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMBBP/EABcBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAZbKPGdqKJQKuMv/xAAcEAABBAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAAEDIRARMkH/2gAIAQEAAQUCK1GZaJyd/I6yPa//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAYEQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARIQEf/aAAgBAgEBPwGnwpiz/8QAGRAAAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERAiAi/9oACAEBAAY/ArXULqQrz3//xAAbEAEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEQITFRkf/aAAgBAQABPyG4LQa3FuOzRLEFiqiHl3LlxeMf/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDbP3//xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREQ/9oACAEDAQE/EIiIef/EABoRAQABBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBEhMWH/2gAIAQIBAT8QEV3M7zVp/8QAHhABAAICAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUXGBkcH/2gAIAQEAAT8QKnNRyedwg/cCZ7kVom2g+QuDkSUm95V4ZfpFVVxlcAQD1Fbn/9k=","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ecc11e10b26e078fb28c38069a0a7d8b/f9913/thor-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ecc11e10b26e078fb28c38069a0a7d8b/f836f/thor-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ecc11e10b26e078fb28c38069a0a7d8b/2244e/thor-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ecc11e10b26e078fb28c38069a0a7d8b/f9913/thor-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Thor is our larger-than-life bundle of joy. We rescued him when he was around six months old. He’s been through a lot, but the loyalty, trust and love that he gives us has changed the way I think and behave, and he even encourages me to be more compassionate towards others.
\n\n\nHe’s also taught me to laugh more
\n
Having Thor has made me realise that forgiveness can be comforting, and companionship is important. He’s also taught me to laugh more, especially when he plays chase with other dogs (not many can keep up with him!) and when he loses his beloved tennis balls in the sand at the beach.
\nHe’s so funny in many ways, like how he knows exactly when it’s 8pm, which is his treat time. He always comes and puts his head and paw on your lap, looking up at you with those big eyes. It’s impossible to resist!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet TJ","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs"],"slug":"meet-tj","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cc20b6f0108c9f99a1f86b88cdb3a313/f9913/tj-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cc20b6f0108c9f99a1f86b88cdb3a313/f836f/tj-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/cc20b6f0108c9f99a1f86b88cdb3a313/2244e/tj-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/cc20b6f0108c9f99a1f86b88cdb3a313/f9913/tj-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"TJ was originally bred for racing, but he never made the grade. He was then put up for adoption and spent five months with another family. However, he wasn’t a forever pet for them and was soon returned to the rescue centre.
\nWe were fortunate enough to adopt TJ in June 2022 when he was just over two years old. We knew we had a lovely pet, but he had a wonderful surprise in store for us.
\nIn January 2023, I broke my hip and spent over a week in hospital having a full replacement. When I was taken home and put in bed, he got up on the bed (without any prompting), cuddled up to me as close as he could and put his paw firmly across my chest. It was as if he was saying, “You’re mine to look after now!” – and he has done so ever since.
\nIt was at this stage that his true personality came to the light. This positive behaviour was nurtured and he’s now my emotional support dog! He looks after both me and my wife.
\n\n\n\n\nTJ is calm, gentle and extremely loving
\n
I’m disabled and have several illnesses, but TJ instinctively knows how to respond perfectly every time. The biggest surprise is that he hasn’t needed any training – he’s just a natural.
\nTJ is calm, gentle and extremely loving. When we’re out on walks, he’s always checking on either me or my wife to make sure we’re all fine. He also walks calmly alongside my mobility scooter (and also enjoys running alongside me when I turn the speed up on a deserted track).
\nOnce, he found me on the floor in the bedroom. I’d dropped something on the floor, and it had rolled under the bed. In an unusual, agitated state, he ran to my wife to alert her that I was in trouble. It was a false alarm, of course, but he didn’t know that.
\nAs well as providing physical care, he’s also a tremendous help for my depression. He gives me the confidence to socialise (he’s a great talking point), and I’m always thrilled to see other people making a fuss of him.
\nAlthough emotional support dogs are not yet given the same rights as other assistance dogs in the UK, I have permission to take him to my GP's surgery, dentist, three different hospitals, restaurants, cafés, a number of shops, pubs and museums. The reception is much the same everywhere we go – people love him! Patients in hospital waiting rooms particularly love seeing him there.
\nI don't think he realises just how special he is, as everything he does comes so naturally to him. It’s all part of his beautiful, enormous personality.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Toby","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Family","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-toby","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Wales","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1037c08a9f8d79dc5b3b03d9f507df21/f9913/toby-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1037c08a9f8d79dc5b3b03d9f507df21/f836f/toby-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1037c08a9f8d79dc5b3b03d9f507df21/2244e/toby-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1037c08a9f8d79dc5b3b03d9f507df21/f9913/toby-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Toby is a working sheep dog! He’s been the best dog we’ve had on our farm – no job was ever too big or too small for him. He has been my companion and best friend since I was two.
\n\n\nHe has been my companion and best friend since I was two
\n
Toby only retired from rounding up sheep and farm work around two years ago so has had a very long working life. He’s still going strong and now enjoys a more relaxed lifestyle just pottering around the farmyard. He’s a caring, gentle boy, and a big softy at heart. Plus, he knows how to pull at the heart strings to get his own way!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Toby","tags":["Adult","Rescue Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-toby-andrew","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c0cb379c5967b5747a0aff444f2f0db8/f9913/toby-andrew-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c0cb379c5967b5747a0aff444f2f0db8/f836f/toby-andrew-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c0cb379c5967b5747a0aff444f2f0db8/2244e/toby-andrew-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c0cb379c5967b5747a0aff444f2f0db8/f9913/toby-andrew-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Toby’s a rescue dog and he makes us laugh every day. We got him a year before lockdown, and he helped us get through it.
\nHe leads a walking group at our local community kitchen where my wife works. He meets and greets everyone, and they all love him.
\n\n\n\n\nHe makes us laugh every day
\n
He loves to ‘remake’ our bed and waits for us to laugh when we see it in a mess. And he loves doing zoomies at his granny's, where he destroys the lawn – but she loves him so much, it doesn't matter. He also has amazing, gorgeous ears that we call his angel wings.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Tony","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Puppy","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-tony","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/815820d4852c3b231f33a88b091f9c00/9a128/tony-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/815820d4852c3b231f33a88b091f9c00/f836f/tony-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/815820d4852c3b231f33a88b091f9c00/2244e/tony-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/815820d4852c3b231f33a88b091f9c00/9a128/tony-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Tony, a scruffy little Brussels Griffon pup, has completely changed my life since I brought him home four months ago. As a visibly physically disabled person, I was always aware of people looking at me when I was out and about, but now it's Tony who gets all the attention – which both he and I love!
\n\n\nHe brings a smile to my face
\n
He's given me a reason to get up and out in the morning. He brings a smile to my face every time I look at him, even when he appears with my shoes, socks or even my coat in his mouth, and I cannot imagine life without him.
\nHe's a real 'Velcro' dog and I wouldn't have him anywhere other than right by my side – even when his chosen sleeping place at night is on my head!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Treacle","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-treacle","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f49a5a7d24218a5439c900b15f8c8c47/f9913/treacle-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f49a5a7d24218a5439c900b15f8c8c47/f836f/treacle-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/f49a5a7d24218a5439c900b15f8c8c47/2244e/treacle-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/f49a5a7d24218a5439c900b15f8c8c47/f9913/treacle-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Treacle was found abandoned in the Bulgarian ski resort we were working at last winter. She was only about two months old, and not in the best condition. We took her in and nursed her back to health until she was strong enough to go outside and play in the snow. She grew into a happy, cheeky puppy who loved to spend time with us.
\nWhen the first lockdown happened, we were stuck in Bulgaria and couldn’t get home, so we found work on a campsite nearby. Treacle adored having us around all the time, and spent her days going on long walks and playing with the other dogs on the site.
\n\n\nShe’s a major hit with all the guests
\n
After a while, we managed to get a new job with a caravan park in the UK, and drove all the way through Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Germany and France with Treacle sleeping in the backseat. She was so well-behaved, charming every border control team we encountered and even waiting patiently when our van broke down.
\nNow we’re back in England, and Treacle loves her new countryside life. She likes to sit outside on the decking of our caravan and watch the world go by, or join us for a ride around the site in a golf buggy. She’s a major hit with all the guests too, and always manages to wrangle a treat out of them!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Trixey and Detchko","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-trixey-and-detchko","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fb71ea3c76678f381a54668b358d7bbc/f9913/trixey-detchko-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fb71ea3c76678f381a54668b358d7bbc/f836f/trixey-detchko-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fb71ea3c76678f381a54668b358d7bbc/2244e/trixey-detchko-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fb71ea3c76678f381a54668b358d7bbc/f9913/trixey-detchko-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My dear husband Pete lost his fight for life on Saturday 25th January 2020. We had been together for almost 32 years.
\nNaturally I have been devastated and lonely since my loss. I have two dogs Trixey, a Doberman Pinscher, and Detchko, a Yorkshire Terrier.
\nMy husband and I rescued Trixey when she was just over 15 months’ old. Trixey then went with us to Babbington Rescue Centre where she selected Detchko.
\n\n\nI am so grateful for their companionship and love as it makes the long and lonely days feel a little brighter
\n
Trixey is a very sensitive and highly intelligent dog. She immediately sensed that there was something wrong. I feel she must have communicated this to Detchko as she was making strange sounds and a different type of bark.
\nFor the past couple of months, she has always been by my side and has given such an out pouring of love that one cannot begin to imagine.
\nWithout Trixey and Detchko by my side I would be a very lonely old age pensioner. I am so grateful for their companionship and love as it makes the long and lonely days feel a little brighter.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Trooper","tags":["Senior","Support Dogs","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-trooper","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6b92542b729c8dc1338cb5ca76b006ef/f9913/trooper-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6b92542b729c8dc1338cb5ca76b006ef/f836f/trooper-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6b92542b729c8dc1338cb5ca76b006ef/2244e/trooper-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6b92542b729c8dc1338cb5ca76b006ef/f9913/trooper-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rehomed Trooper from Dogs Trust Glasgow when he was 18 months old, and he’s going to be 10 in March. He was first dropped off there when he was only three weeks old, then he was in and out until we met him. The first thing we saw was his cheeky face jumping up and down in his kennel. After that, we became his fifth owners.
\nIt was no surprise to find out that he has ADHD and is OBSESSED with balls, but he has an absolute heart of gold and just wants to be loved. He’s always smiling, even after his rough start in life.
\nHe also really helped me in 2022. My dad had to get a below the knee amputation in May, then my gran got diagnosed with eye melanoma and had to have her eye removed in August. Sadly, she passed away in November. Throughout all of this, Trooper was by my side.
\nHe always knew if I was struggling and as soon as he saw me cry, he would come straight over, climb onto the sofa and cuddle into me. I wish I was like Trooper. He doesn’t let anything get him down and is ALWAYS happy and ready to play.
\n\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Twig","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-twig","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0b2747f209fe538c2caa0257eb9c2cf3/f9913/twig-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b2747f209fe538c2caa0257eb9c2cf3/f836f/twig-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0b2747f209fe538c2caa0257eb9c2cf3/2244e/twig-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0b2747f209fe538c2caa0257eb9c2cf3/f9913/twig-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"\n\nHe’s always smiling, even after his rough start in life
\n
Last year, my nan’s dementia got a lot worse, and I felt like I had lost her behind the fog and confusion of the disease. She no longer remembered my name, she was scared and erratic and it was impossible to have a conversation with her.
\nThen I took Twig to see her. My nan’s face lit up as Twig bounded towards her, she opened her arms and yelled ‘TWIG!’ She remembered her! We could talk about Twig and stroke her together and it calmed and grounded my nan. Twig was like a portal, bringing a little fragment of my nan back to me.
\n\n\nTwig is the kindest and most warm-hearted dog I have ever met
\n
Twig has been my rock, best friend and soulmate since I collected her from a little farm in Wales two years ago. We are inseparable. She comes out with the horses to gallop on the beach, we go on adventures up mountains, and she even comes to work with me at the vets. She’s not only the face of the practice (her photos are literally all over the walls!), but also a calm and comforting presence for other dogs who are in for surgery.
\nShe has also helped raise an abandoned kitten that was brought into the vets close to death. Twig kept her warm and brought her back to life. It was adorable to see, you can’t make this stuff up!
\nTwig is the kindest and most warm-hearted dog I have ever met. She is also a true character and people just fall in love with her. When I am sad or anxious, she distracts and comforts me. She always knows what to do to.
\nAnd talk about a poser! If a camera comes out, Twig understands the assignment. But then again, it would be a crime for her not to share her beauty with the world!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Vali","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-vali","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/a1debf0132270bde9a46b13d7dc7da86/f9913/vali-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a1debf0132270bde9a46b13d7dc7da86/f836f/vali-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/a1debf0132270bde9a46b13d7dc7da86/2244e/vali-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/a1debf0132270bde9a46b13d7dc7da86/f9913/vali-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My boy has had a hugely positive influence in my life. I’d already owned two dogs before I got him last November. I sadly lost one in January and getting Vali helped me to deal with my grief.
\n\n\nA hugely positive influence in my life
\n
During these recent tough months, he’s been my reason to go out each day. I love photography and he’s inspired me to get back out into the world and pursue my passion, since he enjoys coming with me.
\nVali is an amazing dog – he is very sweet-natured and a bit of a clown, so he keeps me smiling and laughing each day.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Vega","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-vega","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAv/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMCBP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABzLcywkkcLOmsjRlBM/8A/8QAGxAAAgMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxEhIjH/2gAIAQEAAQUCRRCEx+rL6VdazpNQ43Un/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQMv/aAAgBAwEBPwERcz//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEDH/2gAIAQIBAT8BSOz/xAAaEAACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARARIQIx/9oACAEBAAY/AremcnsNsuNj/8QAGxAAAgMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERITFBcYH/2gAIAQEAAT8hVj5jms3Mi0F3Rej4aeXhINrEzfcG0TSoHp//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEDs3AP/EABkRAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAMRARIf/aAAgBAwEBPxBmqjfIDH//xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABAxIf/aAAgBAgEBPxBl2Gdip//EAB0QAQADAQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExUaFBYYH/2gAIAQEAAT8QAqXbrhKltnDh8diobFXrpLbQrr6l80L6PyD36gMVS1iVml/ETuJAPiphbP/Z","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2a1a3c985d43fae451bb98383693af88/f9913/vega-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2a1a3c985d43fae451bb98383693af88/f836f/vega-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2a1a3c985d43fae451bb98383693af88/2244e/vega-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2a1a3c985d43fae451bb98383693af88/f9913/vega-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Vega is my trainee Disability Assistance Dog. Lockdown has put a stop to training sessions and temporarily prevented her from becoming fully qualified, but in our home, she’s become our very own saviour.
\nOn my bad days she stays close by my side so she can help me out. She picks up things I drop, fetches numerous ‘named’ items on request such as shoes and medication and even takes off my socks, jumpers, trousers when asked. She also does a lot to help around the house, like fetching the phone when it rings and tidying up after my two other dogs.
\n\n\nShe’s become our very own saviour
\n
When I’m in a lot of pain, Vega lies across my legs to comfort me. Of course, I’m not the only one she helps – my older dog, Skye, has early dementia, and when she’s having a bad day, Vega will lie with her and help to calm her down. She even knows to pick up the dog bowls after dinner time and take them to the sink!
\nThe greatest gift Vega gives me is her company. She is always close by and I know I can rely on her when I need help. This year, we’ve both learnt to understand each other, which has really strengthened our bond. She teaches me just as much as I teach her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Vienna","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-vienna","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/762a4afcddc852c54fdcfa2404295dde/f9913/vienna-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/762a4afcddc852c54fdcfa2404295dde/f836f/vienna-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/762a4afcddc852c54fdcfa2404295dde/2244e/vienna-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/762a4afcddc852c54fdcfa2404295dde/f9913/vienna-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I had wanted a Collie for a long time, and when Vienna came into my life everything fell into place. We started attending puppy classes, which she\nloved, so we moved onto bigger things such as ring craft, which trained her up to become a show dog.
\nWe’ve had an amazing time travelling around the country, meeting so many wonderful people and dogs along the way. I’d never experienced anything like it before, and neither had Vienna, so I’m really glad we got to do it together.
\n\n\nWe had an amazing time travelling around the country
\n
Our favourite pastime is to go on walks. Vienna has taken me to some incredible places, and our hikes just get longer and better the more we branch out. No matter what the weather is, she’ll be there with a smile. I don’t know where I’d be without her.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Vincent","tags":["Adorable","Family","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-vincent","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/5c3dd84375df43f9f6674ebe77fd0ac1/f9913/vincent-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c3dd84375df43f9f6674ebe77fd0ac1/f836f/vincent-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c3dd84375df43f9f6674ebe77fd0ac1/2244e/vincent-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c3dd84375df43f9f6674ebe77fd0ac1/f9913/vincent-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Vincent is a Kelpie Hunteraway cross. He’s extremely loving and is always happy to meet new people, even if he does put them off with his barking! He enjoys singing too, and will happily howl along to any tune he hears on TV. He may not be the most talented, but he certainly makes up for it with his determination and the joy he brings us all.
\nHe has many jobs around the house, his latest of which is to keep an eye on our pet rabbits. Vincent reminds us to let them out first thing in the morning, and won’t stop pestering us until we do. You can often find him keeping a watchful eye over them throughout the day.
\n\n\nHe happily goes off to fetch any strays
\n
Another of his responsibilities is to round up the chickens and put them to bed in the evening, and he takes this very seriously. He happily goes off to fetch any strays, and sometimes even brings his feathered friends into the house to say hello!
\nHis main job is just to be himself and be a part of our family. He’s been there with us through some difficult times over the past couple of years, and is always there for a hug and a stroke, which will never fail to put a smile back on your face.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Waffle","tags":["Funny","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-waffle","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/0542558dbdd762a68668ea2a2484f832/f9913/waffle-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0542558dbdd762a68668ea2a2484f832/f836f/waffle-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/0542558dbdd762a68668ea2a2484f832/2244e/waffle-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/0542558dbdd762a68668ea2a2484f832/f9913/waffle-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Waffle unexpectedly bounded into our lives after meeting her with Foxhound Welfare UK at Dogs Unleashed last September 2021. She has boundless energy and loves taking part in Canicross runs and hikes. She loves to sing in the evening and always likes a snuggle.
\n\n\nShe keeps us on our toes all the time
\n
She is an escape artist so keeps us on our toes all the time. She even took herself for an unscheduled run on Christmas morning, followed by my husband wearing his slippers. She's certainly made herself feel at home and we couldn't imagine life without her now (even when she does empty the kitchen bins).
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Whiskey Sox","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Rescue Dogs","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-whiskey-sox","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Yorkshire and the Humber","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c45a9796c67b8d3aac248119da605e8e/f9913/whiskey-sox-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c45a9796c67b8d3aac248119da605e8e/f836f/whiskey-sox-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c45a9796c67b8d3aac248119da605e8e/2244e/whiskey-sox-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c45a9796c67b8d3aac248119da605e8e/f9913/whiskey-sox-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I was off work after being diagnosed with Anxiety and Depression and had been thinking about getting a dog for a while. We decided it would provide me with a focus, and since I would be at home, I’d have the time to help with the house training.
\nMy husband, sister in law and I went to the breeders. She had a room of six-week-old puppies. As we talked, her 'house' dogs and a three-month-old pup wandered into the room. She was the runt of the previous litter, and the breeder had kept her back to build her up, but the arrival of the new puppies meant no one wanted her. Well, I did!
\n\n\nYou couldn’t get a playing card between us
\n
We took her home and named her Whiskey. From the very first day she was 'my' dog. She slept next to me, snuggled with me on the sofa (you couldn't get a playing card between us) and followed me everywhere.
\nI have since returned to work, but she is still my security blanket, my treasure and my dog. When I’m at work she stays with my husband, but I’m still her favourite. In a household of men, we stick together!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Willa","tags":["Adult","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-willa","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/fbd6719835d81a08cb5c85192ae6534c/f9913/willa-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fbd6719835d81a08cb5c85192ae6534c/f836f/willa-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/fbd6719835d81a08cb5c85192ae6534c/2244e/willa-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/fbd6719835d81a08cb5c85192ae6534c/f9913/willa-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Willa is a daft German Shorthaired Pointer. She loves to walk and scent chase. You hardly see her on a walk but one whistle and she's back in a second – unless something requires her urgent attention!
\nIn the house, she’s a massive lap dog. She wants cuddles and covers even when it's 28° outside. She runs a tight ship too: breakfast at 8am prompt, lunchtime snack at 12 exactly, dinner at 5pm and supper at 9pm on the button. We joke that she is a dictator. This is her life and you’re privileged to be a part of it, thank you very much!
\n\n\nShe always makes us laugh with her silly antics
\n
She always makes us laugh with her silly antics. Her nickname is doof-dog because she 'doofs' things with her nose and knocks them over. When you’re in the bath. the deodorant often ends up in with you! She also has a weird obsession with metal and likes to chew coins. She won’t eat them; she’ll just faff about with them in her mouth.
\nWilla has always been a goof and that's why we love her so much. There is never a dull moment.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Willow","tags":["Adult","Funny"],"slug":"meet-willow-jacquelyn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/30eaa0996781add547e1bc6ab29d571e/f9913/willow-jacquelyn-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/30eaa0996781add547e1bc6ab29d571e/f836f/willow-jacquelyn-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/30eaa0996781add547e1bc6ab29d571e/2244e/willow-jacquelyn-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/30eaa0996781add547e1bc6ab29d571e/f9913/willow-jacquelyn-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"When I lost my last dog at 13 years old, I thought that my broken heart couldn’t be mended, but then Willow came along and filled it with love and joy.
\n\n\n\n\nWillow came along and filled my life with love and joy
\n
She is bonkers but kind, gentle and loves everyone. She has helped many people and other dogs overcome their fear of big dogs, particularly German Shepherds. She’s a great ambassador for larger breeds, and she’s also my best friend.
\nUnfortunately, she thinks she’s a lap dog! She has no concept of personal space – but I wouldn’t change it for a second.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Willow","tags":["Adorable","Class of 19/23","Family","Puppy"],"slug":"meet-willow","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3e3ddbf290b648ae3bc6367f52dd4cc2/f9913/willow-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3e3ddbf290b648ae3bc6367f52dd4cc2/f836f/willow-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3e3ddbf290b648ae3bc6367f52dd4cc2/2244e/willow-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3e3ddbf290b648ae3bc6367f52dd4cc2/f9913/willow-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Willow is a super positive influence in our lives. As you can imagine, we don’t get the best of weather in the North West but every day she looks at us as if to say, ‘Come on paw-rents, take me out, take me out!’ This particularly helps as we both work from home, so getting out the house for three walks a day is a must.
\nWhen we’re out, she thinks that every human wants to say hello and she has a special commando move of crawling up to them and sitting right at their feet with her head up, asking to be petted. It’s not often people can resist!
\n\n\nShe loves a good pose for attention
\n
She is very independent and likes to be defiant at times with a look of ‘I know what you’re saying but not today, mum.’ Plus, you’ll rarely see her without her favourite ball in her mouth, even if she’s sleeping.
\nShe knows the name ‘daddy’ and if we ask ‘Where’s daddy?’, she’ll always jump on his lap and stand right over him so he has no choice but to pet her. We like to do this just to wind him up!
\nHer favourite snacks are natural treats and cheese. She won’t do anything at training unless cheese is involved, and that also includes fetching the ball. She’s currently scared of water and will do her best to avoid puddles.
\nShe’s also a bit of an Instagrammer and loves a good pose for attention! I can honestly say Willow has really helped with my mental health by giving me a focus and a reason to get up and out. She even joins us on runs! She’s certainly made us a lot healthier and she’s the best furfriend I could ask for.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Willow","tags":["Small","Support Dogs","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-willow-jennifer","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/4d88093abe520f1d469e5fe59f69267d/f9913/willow-jennifer-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4d88093abe520f1d469e5fe59f69267d/f836f/willow-jennifer-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/4d88093abe520f1d469e5fe59f69267d/2244e/willow-jennifer-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/4d88093abe520f1d469e5fe59f69267d/f9913/willow-jennifer-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My daughter, now 15, has been home-schooled since she was 11. For a little context, she has autism, so secondary school really took a toll on her mental health. The constant overstimulation would leave her tired for days on end. Eventually she couldn't continue at the school, so we had to take her out.
\nAbout a year ago, things were getting quite bad. She was barely showering or cleaning herself, she wasn’t leaving the house due to rising anxiety, and she really wasn’t the happy little girl I know and love. She’s always had a connection with animals, and her love for them has been a coping mechanism, so we got her Willow.
\n\n\n\n\nWe’re currently planning to get her trained to be an assistance dog for my daughter
\n
To say this bettered her life is a massive understatement. Willow is a playful pooch. She’ll bring you a toy anytime to try to get you to play. She loves to play tug with anything. She likes it when we sit on the floor and throw dog biscuits for her to chase and eat. She also enjoys bringing us bones to hold while she chews them – it's often stinky, but it's how she bonds, and we love her for it! She also loves her cuddles, so she’ll curl up on our laps and sleep whenever possible.
\nHaving the extra responsibility of this fluffball in my daughter’s life has helped tremendously. She now leaves the house to walk her, she comes out of her room more to spend time with Willow, and she’s even more confident talking to people with Willow nearby! We’re currently planning to get her trained to be an assistance dog for my daughter. She’s the little superhero we needed.
\n"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Winnie","tags":["Senior","Rescue Dogs","Funny"],"slug":"meet-winnie-lynn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"false","year":2024,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c7f72e8319bd66f341c7c345a4c22e72/f9913/winnie-lynn-header-2024.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c7f72e8319bd66f341c7c345a4c22e72/f836f/winnie-lynn-header-2024.jpg 200w,\n/static/c7f72e8319bd66f341c7c345a4c22e72/2244e/winnie-lynn-header-2024.jpg 400w,\n/static/c7f72e8319bd66f341c7c345a4c22e72/f9913/winnie-lynn-header-2024.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We adopted Winnie after she was rescued for crying at nine weeks old. She’s a very funny and outgoing dog who thinks she’s a celebrity and expects everyone who walks past her to acknowledge how pretty she is (or she will make a strange noise at them!). She also hates getting her feet wet and prefers to sleep under a duvet.
\n\n\n\n\nShe has made a very positive difference in our lives
\n
Winnie helped us to get out every day and meet other dog walkers and villagers, who have now become firm friends – and many of the elderly residents now carry dog biscuits in their pockets in case they see her. She has made a very positive difference in our lives and helped us settle into our new chapter in the North East, where we didn’t know anyone.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Wish","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-wish","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6de716f48ee930152204226f7d67247a/f9913/wish-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6de716f48ee930152204226f7d67247a/f836f/wish-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6de716f48ee930152204226f7d67247a/2244e/wish-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6de716f48ee930152204226f7d67247a/f9913/wish-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Wish came into our lives after she retired. We've always had Collies, and had been without one for nearly five years after losing my last. Wish has some funny habits, like how she won’t eat her morning biscuits until we allsit down. She also gives you a disapproving look, like you're being told off,when you've been out and left her at home!
\n\n\nWish has some funny habits
\n
She loves her ears being tickled and often rests her head against your knees to tell you that’s what she wants. Wish makes our home a happy place, and we can only hope we’re helping her to enjoy her retirement\nyears.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Winnie","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-winnie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e6b31e96ec2980e4ea1bd20a6ff51ec0/f9913/winnie-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e6b31e96ec2980e4ea1bd20a6ff51ec0/f836f/winnie-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/e6b31e96ec2980e4ea1bd20a6ff51ec0/2244e/winnie-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/e6b31e96ec2980e4ea1bd20a6ff51ec0/f9913/winnie-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We got Winnie as a companion for our autistic son. She was due to come home to us the week of the first lock down, and sadly the process ended up being delayed. We felt so sorry for her as it meant had to stay at the shelter for a little while longer. But, we kept our hopes up and as soon as the restrictions eased, we were told we could come and collect her.
\n\n\nWe’re always here to protect her
\n
At first, she was extremely shy and wouldn’t come near us, but we gave her space and over time she stared to realise just how much we love her. We’ve had to build up her confidence bit by bit and show her the joys of the big wide world – but also reassure her that we’re always here to protect her.
\nWinnie is now a loved member of our family, and is not only a true friend to our son Jake, but also a pal to our other pets. Jake loves her so much, and she’s been a huge help to him throughout these uncertain times.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Wolfgang","tags":["Adorable","Brave & Loyal","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-wolfgang","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3834406b8d76e89b39be98db53136bdb/f9913/wolfgang-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3834406b8d76e89b39be98db53136bdb/f836f/wolfgang-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3834406b8d76e89b39be98db53136bdb/2244e/wolfgang-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3834406b8d76e89b39be98db53136bdb/f9913/wolfgang-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Wolfgang came to us as he was born blind with no eyes. When we first got him, he was very timid – wouldn’t walk, eat or play. But by the second day he was running and playing like a normal puppy.
\n\n\nHe doesn’t let his disability stop him in any way
\n
He doesn’t let his disability stop him in any way and likes to play with his toys and our other two dogs. He’s come on great in the five weeks we’ve had him, going from 0.9kg to nearly 2kg! He is looking forward to experiencing his first Christmas and getting to play with all the wrapping paper.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Wolfie","tags":["Rescue Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-wolfie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":null,"year":2019,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9cfd4af9ce32d5903b02fec264ab5ea9/f9913/wolfie-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9cfd4af9ce32d5903b02fec264ab5ea9/f836f/wolfie-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9cfd4af9ce32d5903b02fec264ab5ea9/2244e/wolfie-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9cfd4af9ce32d5903b02fec264ab5ea9/f9913/wolfie-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"We rescued Wolfie six months ago, and since then he has made our life so much better and happier. Wolfie is perfectly trained, super intelligent and has managed to learn six new tricks even though he is an old dog!
\nHe is sensational at the park and we often get stopped because people want to say hello and take pictures of him. He even comes with me to work and is our office pet.
\n\n\nEveryone that meets him loves him
\n
He also has the cheekiest but funniest personality. You would never guess that he’s 10 years old, and everyone that meets him loves him. He adores playing with all dogs in the park and sometimes forgets how big he is – it’s so funny seeing him play with a tiny puppy!
\nHe is affectionate and loves children, and has made our little family so much happier.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Woody","tags":["Funny","Rescue Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-woody","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9dc66f176a8dd50d13cd0ba4c19e97e2/f9913/woody-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9dc66f176a8dd50d13cd0ba4c19e97e2/f836f/woody-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9dc66f176a8dd50d13cd0ba4c19e97e2/2244e/woody-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9dc66f176a8dd50d13cd0ba4c19e97e2/f9913/woody-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Woody is a dog in a million. I’ve had him ever since he was a pup. When I visited the Dog’s Trust centre, I chose him because he was the only one to approach me and with head held high. I thought to myself – he's got gumption and he likes me!
\n\n\nHis head held high
\n
It was hard work at first, because he chewed everything in sight, including my furniture – but he was so worth it. I took him to training classes and he did well, but at the formal assessment, he took off around the room when he was told to stay. He ran round and around at full pelt, chairs a-rattling, while all looked on – even the judges laughed!
\nMy gorgeous dog began to have awful seizures a few months ago, including cluster fits. I was so scared for him but his enormous strength of character and resilience carries him – and me – through. I'm so proud of him, and could not love him more. And he still holds his head high!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Woody","tags":["Family","Puppy","Support Dogs","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-woody-rachael","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/2239af41f9d2c60adb00d6bca6bed004/f9913/woody-rachael-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2239af41f9d2c60adb00d6bca6bed004/f836f/woody-rachael-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/2239af41f9d2c60adb00d6bca6bed004/2244e/woody-rachael-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/2239af41f9d2c60adb00d6bca6bed004/f9913/woody-rachael-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My daughter Adelaide, who’s now 12, has had a fear of dogs for as long as I can remember. She would cross the road if a dog came her way and she started to isolate herself from her peers. Her best friends all had dogs, meaning she missed out on play dates and parties due to her fear.
\n\n\nWoody taught her that dogs are kind and can become your best friend
\n
The final straw was when she ran into the road to avoid a dog in her path. As parents, we were desperate to help her and sought support from our GP. Adelaide was referred to a local mental health specialist and received 1:1 support. Later we also tried hypnotherapy in desperation. Nothing worked, until Woody.
\nWe bit the bullet and made the decision to get a puppy, hoping he may be the answer to our prayers. We were right! It took time and trust, but they are now the best of friends, and her phobia is a thing of the past. Woody taught her that dogs are kind and can become your best friend. Now they’re Adelaide and Woody – best friends in the world!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Wookie","tags":["Funny","Family","Class of 19/23","Small"],"slug":"meet-wookie","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/ad81af0ab070f0a7a978bcc01b4f1ec1/f9913/wookie-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ad81af0ab070f0a7a978bcc01b4f1ec1/f836f/wookie-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/ad81af0ab070f0a7a978bcc01b4f1ec1/2244e/wookie-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/ad81af0ab070f0a7a978bcc01b4f1ec1/f9913/wookie-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our little Yorkie, Wookie, is the light of our lives. Neither of us had ever had a small dog before, and she has been amazing since the day she came home. Wookie is bold, intelligent, and will walk miles whatever the weather. Even as a tiny, eight-week-old ball of fluff, she immediately wanted to play with our three big cats.
\n\n\nWookie is truly indefatigable
\n
She will happily wade through the mud or jump into cold water for a swim.Once, she tried to climb a tree to go after a squirrel, and she’s even chased a Muntjac deer – although what she thought would happen if she caught it, I don't know!
\nWookie truly is indefatigable. I remember when we went to Mortimer Forest for the day. We walked 11 miles, and when we got home Wookie immediately picked up her ball and wanted to play!
\nShe fills our hearts with happiness every day, and there is nothing better than rambling through the woods with her, watching her sniff, explore andrummage through the hedgerows. It was such a joy to be able to include her in our wedding, back in 2001. She was our ring bearer, and she stole the hearts of everyone there.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Wulfwynn","tags":["Adult","Funny","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-wulfwynn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"West Midlands","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/06124d325a8d02a7ed85804c170e5761/9a128/wulfwynn-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/06124d325a8d02a7ed85804c170e5761/f836f/wulfwynn-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/06124d325a8d02a7ed85804c170e5761/2244e/wulfwynn-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/06124d325a8d02a7ed85804c170e5761/9a128/wulfwynn-header.jpg 700w","sizes":"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"}}}},"html":"Wulfwynn enhances the lives of myself, my husband and our young son with her affection and antics. As an Irish Wolfhound, she is completely unaware of her size, and clumsiness is definitely the order of the day. She trips over her own legs, bumps into things, and insists on trying to sit on our laps, despite being far taller than I am on her hind legs, let alone our son!
\nShe can be a bit of a mess too, always emerging from the woods covered in leaves and twigs! However, all this awkwardness disappears when she reaches the ferns on the edge of the woods during our daily walks. Then, she flies like a bird, leaping and bounding through the undergrowth – a thing of beauty and elegance.
\n\n\nShe insists on trying to sit on our laps, despite being far taller than I am on her hind legs
\n
She is particularly funny with our Bengal kitten. They are definitely partners in crime. Montmorency the kitten knocks things off the piano so that Wulfwynn can chew them! They chase each other round the garden, play-fight (Montmorency giving as good as he gets), and then curl up together.
\nOne morning, when Montmorency was still a tiny kitten, and Wulfwynn was already coming into her full size, we came down to find that we had accidentally shut both animals in the kitchen together overnight. Wulfwynn was lying on the hard floor, looking aggrieved, while the kitten was sprawled luxuriously on the huge dog bed, looking smug with satisfaction! Such joy, such love, and so many laughs!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Wyn","tags":["Adult","Support Dogs","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-wyn","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Midlands","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/9c0ebe8973558a31c248c47e29c74c05/f9913/wyn-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9c0ebe8973558a31c248c47e29c74c05/f836f/wyn-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/9c0ebe8973558a31c248c47e29c74c05/2244e/wyn-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/9c0ebe8973558a31c248c47e29c74c05/f9913/wyn-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Wyn came to me after he'd been found as a stray and handed in at my vet. After no one came to claim him, I took him in. When he was first brought in, he wasn’t chipped or wearing a collar, so I asked him, ‘What's your name?’ Then I told him that that could be shortened to ‘Wyn’, and I got a wag. So, Wyn's name is actually the acronym of that question.
\nHe's a Saluki cross, and like many Salukis, he enjoys chasing games with my other hounds. He's also a typical Sighthound, and when he’s not playing games, he chills out on the sofa.
\nHe loves his cuddles – as far as he’s concerned, people are there to love and fuss him, and he returns that in kind. This quickly led to him doing his Pets As Therapy assessment, and he’s been visiting a local mental health hospital for many years now. He loves his visits, and everyone loves seeing him. The staff have told me he makes a real difference to the patients and their wellbeing.
\n\n\n\n\nHe’s been visiting a local mental health hospital for many years
\n
Wyn’s also an education dog, so he goes into schools with me to promote animal welfare. After our sessions, the children get to meet him. He’s always really gentle with them, and he's even helped some of them overcome their fear of dogs.
\nHe recently retired as a blood donor with Pet Blood Bank UK, having made 25 donations. This means he helped save the lives of 100 dogs, as each donation gets turned into four blood products. He even continued donating during Covid, even though I wasn't allowed to accompany him.
\nWyn is always a fantastic icebreaker. Usually no one speaks to each other on train journeys, but when I’m travelling to events with him, everyone wants to come and say hello. He’s a fantastic companion to me and a wonderful ambassador for dogs in general, particularly Sighthounds.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Xander","tags":["Support Dogs","Family","Adorable","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-xander","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"Scotland","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1709cdb6a6ee6d745f62d53f88a26492/f9913/xander-one-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1709cdb6a6ee6d745f62d53f88a26492/f836f/xander-one-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/1709cdb6a6ee6d745f62d53f88a26492/2244e/xander-one-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/1709cdb6a6ee6d745f62d53f88a26492/f9913/xander-one-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I have a severe mental health disorder and was told that looking after a dog could improve my wellbeing. When I got Xander, I knew he would be apositive influence in my life, but I never could have guessed how much he’d change my whole world
\n\n\nHe howls at the ice cream van
\n
Xander has given me a purpose, helping me to get out of the house and meet new people. He always knows when I’m having a bad day, and he’ll lay his head in my lap or put his paw on my leg. It’s enough to make me feel loved.
\nHe has so many funny quirks, like the way he howls at the ice cream van whenever we walk past. Xander also has a cheeky side, and whenever youtell him off, he barks back at you!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Xiaoxiao","tags":["Family","Support Dogs","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-xiaoxiao","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/79d544951e81bbc3d8528873c98c954c/f9913/xiaoxiao-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/79d544951e81bbc3d8528873c98c954c/f836f/xiaoxiao-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/79d544951e81bbc3d8528873c98c954c/2244e/xiaoxiao-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/79d544951e81bbc3d8528873c98c954c/f9913/xiaoxiao-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Xiaoxiao (pronounced chowchow) was a street dog in China. He was rescued and adopted by me in October 2019. He’s slightly wonky so he can’t walk massive distances.
\nOn the first night he came to me, he put his arms around my neck and just wouldn’t stop licking me. He spent that night asleep on my bed in my arms, and he’s slept there ever since.
\nI suffer from a few mental health conditions which affect my moods severely. Xiaoxiao always knows what I need in every moment. If I am angry or sad, he will sit next to me and lick me, then put himself on my lap to cuddle.
\n\n\nHe is always by my side everywhere I go
\n
He is always by my side everywhere I go, no matter what. Xiaoxiao has a thing about my socks. When I come home, I have to give him my socks or he will literally try and take them off my feet! He often plays with my cats as well – they run around together, and he helps groom them.
\nMy son is currently on the road to being diagnosed with autism and Xiaoxiao is so good with him. If he is having a bad day, Xiaoxiao will sit with him, just letting my son stroke him while he calms down.
\nWhen I rescued Xiaoxiao, I had no idea how special he would be to me. Nothing I do doesn’t involve him. He came camping last summer for four days in Dartmoor, which he loved. We walked for miles, spent the nights in a tent on the moor and had the most amazing time.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Yogi","tags":["Puppy","Support Dogs","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-yogi","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"North West","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/3b1480a7e8d1c232fdc1265a0ded931c/f9913/yogi-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3b1480a7e8d1c232fdc1265a0ded931c/f836f/yogi-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/3b1480a7e8d1c232fdc1265a0ded931c/2244e/yogi-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/3b1480a7e8d1c232fdc1265a0ded931c/f9913/yogi-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Yogi Bear brings light and love into our lives. We had a puppy before him, who was diagnosed with a congenital heart condition – we looked after him until the end. Then Yogi healed our scars.
\n\n\n\n\nYogi healed our scars
\n
I soon realised he was incredibly sociable, and people loved him. I started taking him to the care home that backs onto our garden. Some of the patients never speak, but they can all say ‘Yogi’!
\nHe also visits a local nursery, and the kids LOVE him. You always want to give back to the community, and Yogi is my faithful pup helping me do that. He’s my shadow, so kind and gentle. But if you drive an Amazon van, he suddenly thinks he’s a Doberman!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Zayat","tags":["Adult","Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-zayat","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"East Of England","year":2023,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAUABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUDBAL/xAAXAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAQAD/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHmx75HN0mS73KEb4U//8QAHhAAAQQBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgABAwQRExQjMjP/2gAIAQEAAQUCfMY6rkeaqs4GKP027q2fGHdf/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASD/2gAIAQMBAT8BWP/EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8BCbf/xAAgEAACAAUFAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIRITJxAxASIkFR/9oACAEBAAY/AuNMiUb6r4XahP0yWihkqizt/8QAHBABAAMAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARMSFBUZHR/9oACAEBAAE/IWfky30S5h2xxKs9UDSbC5VA84hX9RMQLXuJFPCKjVs//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABBYz77/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABH/2gAIAQMBAT8Q0Q2xm2//xAAXEQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABFx/9oACAECAQE/EMBcuIsL/8QAHRABAAMAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFRQWFxsf/aAAgBAQABPxDRoYSYflxTQKFGej39niy9bTsrDAXLLiWjfj2Z8gQeHYuHLQqDwpzYilJ+kegg9z//2Q==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/587e3b10a5da40f270c4e9463fa3c910/f9913/zayat-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/587e3b10a5da40f270c4e9463fa3c910/f836f/zayat-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/587e3b10a5da40f270c4e9463fa3c910/2244e/zayat-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/587e3b10a5da40f270c4e9463fa3c910/f9913/zayat-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Zayat is such a character. She does so many funny things, and always makes us laugh. She’s also very clever, so if we drop anything, even if it’s tiny, she’ll find it, put it between her lips and look at us. Then we’ll ask her ‘what’ve you got?’, and she finally spits it out so we can see what it is.
\n\n\n\n\nWe call her the phantom tea towel snatcher
\n
We can hide anything, say ‘go find it’ and she would sniff it out. She often understands what we’re saying, so she knows people by name, and can read our body language. If we need cheering up, Zayat will always make us feel better.
\nShe loves to take our socks off and our hats. We call her the phantom tea towel snatcher as she will steal the tea towel at any opportunity. We don't even realise she’s taken it as she does it so craftily, then she runs off with it so proudly. Life would be very dull without Zayat – she’s a one off!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Ziggy","tags":["Adorable","Funny","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-ziggy","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/b18aabb0504a28268b338d57e18dd005/f9913/ziggy-article-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b18aabb0504a28268b338d57e18dd005/f836f/ziggy-article-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/b18aabb0504a28268b338d57e18dd005/2244e/ziggy-article-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/b18aabb0504a28268b338d57e18dd005/f9913/ziggy-article-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"Our Ziggy is a real character. She’s extremely friendly with everyone but like most dogs, she has no concept of ownership and is very proud of the fact that she can carry two tennis balls in her mouth at once. This would be funny, but usually, the tennis balls belong to other dogs, and she’s stolen them without any remorse!
\n\n\nShe’s stolen them without any remorse!
\n
It’s now getting so embarrassing that we’ve had t-shirts and neck ties printed for her. They read ‘Tennis ball thief’, and the idea is to give other dog owners a heads-up, as Ziggy tends to steal a ball or two and then head off into the distance as fast as she possibly can. I usually have to take the owner’s number so we can return their pet’s favourite ball at a later date.
\nThe goal for 2021? To finally break the habit of a lifetime and stop that thieving Madam in her tracks!
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Zola","tags":["Adorable","Rescue Dogs","Senior","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-zola","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/6ee52dc22425fad6c26f448d600bdf3c/f9913/zola-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6ee52dc22425fad6c26f448d600bdf3c/f836f/zola-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/6ee52dc22425fad6c26f448d600bdf3c/2244e/zola-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/6ee52dc22425fad6c26f448d600bdf3c/f9913/zola-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I adopted Zola, a German Shorthaired Pointer, on 2nd May this year. She was found as a stray in Cyprus, rescued and looked after in a shelter for about two months until she was well enough to travel to the UK.
\nShe has settled really well in the time she has been here, and I have just started very basic training with her as she was completely untrained. She has definitely come out of her shy, anxious shell and is showing her cheeky, funny, very affectionate character. She is a puppy in a 9-year-old body as she's probably never enjoyed a puppyhood before.
\n\n\nAdopting a neglected, abandoned dog is one of the most rewarding things I’ve done
\n
She loves anything fluffy, especially if she's not supposed to have it, like my slippers and the dog coats I’m knitting for rescue shelters, for example. She pokes her nose in any open drawer or cupboard and loves to grab and run – she is particularly drawn to silicone baking containers for some bizarre reason.
\nZola is starting to bond with our other two adopted German Shorthaired Pointers, 9-year-old Baxter and 12-year-old Danny, who’s also a Cyprus rescue. She loves food, food and more food, playing with toys, stealing Danny's tennis balls and doing anything naughty.
\nShe makes me laugh every day and drives me demented from running around saving items from being chewed, but gives me so much love in return. Adopting a neglected, abandoned dog and giving them a loving forever home is one of the most rewarding things I’ve done, and seeing them blossom into the dogs they should have always been is priceless.
"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Zeus","tags":["Brave & Loyal","Family","Class of 19/23"],"slug":"meet-zeus","dom":false,"doy":null,"location":"South East","year":2020,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/c5d300cf29adfaecd7bf61dad43e8eb9/f9913/zeus-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c5d300cf29adfaecd7bf61dad43e8eb9/f836f/zeus-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/c5d300cf29adfaecd7bf61dad43e8eb9/2244e/zeus-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/c5d300cf29adfaecd7bf61dad43e8eb9/f9913/zeus-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"My boy is amazing. Three years ago, he went for routine op and sadly became very ill and near death. Through all the treatment he had, he survived and stayed loving, and now we have diagnosed a haemophiliac dog.
\n\n\nThat dog has saved my life
\n
His life has changed, but he's the most loving, happy dog. Every day, I wake up to him wagging his tail because he’s so pleased to see me. He has helped me during the worst times – I lost my brother during lockdown and also had a heart op, but that dog has saved my life.
\nThe strength he has to be happy and to go through so much being so ill means I couldn't wish for a better dog. He’s my life. Bless him.
"}]},"story":{"frontmatter":{"title":"Meet Mary Jane","tags":["Funny","Family","Adult","Class of 19/23"],"dom":false,"doy":null,"slug":"meet-mary-jane","location":"North West","year":2022,"video":null,"thumb":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/7c6ac04cd0798fe42b47a2fa87fc1ffa/f9913/mary-jane-header.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7c6ac04cd0798fe42b47a2fa87fc1ffa/f836f/mary-jane-header.jpg 200w,\n/static/7c6ac04cd0798fe42b47a2fa87fc1ffa/2244e/mary-jane-header.jpg 400w,\n/static/7c6ac04cd0798fe42b47a2fa87fc1ffa/f9913/mary-jane-header.jpg 750w","sizes":"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px"}}}},"html":"I fostered Mary Jane in January 2016. It was just supposed to be temporary until her owner could have her back, but it turned out he never wanted her back. So, I decided to keep her because I just knew she was special.
\nIn the first few months, she absolutely destroyed my house. She chewed holes in my walls, chewed up and ate a few of my little boy’s toys. She ripped up my flooring and she was forever taking herself for walks by jumping over my six-foot gate.
\n\n\nMy house wouldn’t be a home without her
\n
Everybody told me to get rid of her because she’d never learn and she was ‘naughty’, but I believed in her and I’m so glad I did. We’re now in 2022 and she’s the most loyal and loving dog. She loves to curl up on her bed and tuck herself under her blankets with just her nose poking out.
\nShe can be left alone without chewing a single thing. Sometimes she will still clear my six-foot gate but let’s just put that down to checking her legs and muscles are still working properly.
\nShe’s pure white so one of her other favourite things to do is run as fast as she can and slide along the mud on her walks – the dirtier the better! My children absolutely adore her, and she adores them. My house wouldn’t be a home without her.
"}},"pageContext":{"slug":"meet-mary-jane"}},"staticQueryHashes":["1611329841","2256151704","2773969215","3273799990","328798061","3293480481","3753759638","4150582080","63159454"]}