Noel Austin and Marnee were presented with their award during Crufts.

Marnee has spent more than a decade making people happy

A Golden retriever has just been named as the winner of a national competition to find the Pets as Therapy (PAT) Dog of the Year.

Eleven-year-old Marnee beat five other finalists to scoop the prestigious title on Friday (6 March) during the world's biggest dog show, Crufts.

Delighted by the win, Marnee's proud owner, Noel Austin, of Crowborough, East Sussex, said: “I couldn’t believe it when the announcer called Marnee’s name. I was thrilled to be notified of her nomination and presented with the opportunity for her take a turn in the spotlight at Crufts. For Marnee to be announced as the overall winner is absolutely unbelievable, we’re both delighted.

“Marnee is a special dog and she deserves special praise. She’s been a PAT dog since she was just nine months old. Despite only being a young puppy, she took to her role immediately and has since spent more than a decade making people happy. It’s nice for Marnee’s efforts to be recognised but I think all PAT dogs are winners. We’ve certainly enjoyed our big day together.”

Marnee and Noel form part of a friendly team of dogs and owners who regularly volunteer their time, providing therapeutic visits to hospices, hospitals, nursing homes and special needs schools.

They have worked with a variety of people including patients undergoing stroke rehabilitation, people with mental and physical disabilities, patients with hospital phobia, a dog phobic girl, autistic children, and those with severe dementia.

Marnee and Noel were presented with a cheque for £500 and three months supply of dog food.

Noel added: “It’s not sunk in yet. Everyone back home will be delighted when we get back and tell them the fabulous news. Lots of friends and the people we visit have been eagerly awaiting the final. They’ll be stunned when we tell them that we have actually won.”

Image (C) Pets as Therapy/Tank PR