Winner will be announced at Crufts 2016
A labrador who saved her owner from falling into a diabetic coma and an autism assistance dog which stopped a child from biting himself have been selected as finalists for a top award.
Organised by the Kennel Club, the annual Eukanuba ‘Friends for Life’ competition celebrates inspiring stories of canine companionship in the face of adversity.
The four dogs which have made the shortlist were selected by a panel of judges for their outstanding loyalty to their owners and for the incredible way they have changed their lives.
The first of the four dogs competing for the award is labrador retriever Scooby, who helps his diabetic owner Sophie Pearman (13) from Kent.
Scooby joined the Spearman family as an eight-week old puppy and has since learned to monitor Sophie’s blood sugar levels. Scooby has saved Sophie twice from slipping into a potentially fatal diabetic coma and acts as a constant companion.
Scooby is up against autism assistant dog Azerley, who came into seven-year-old Cohen Hadfield’s life just over a year ago.
As well as helping Cohen and his family with everyday life, Azerley has dramatically reduced Cohen’s anxiety levels and encouraged him to interact with his surroundings.
The third competitor is Boo, a lurcher who arrived during a particularly difficult time in owner Rosie Reid’s life.
Rosie had recently suffered a miscarriage which left her unable to have children. As a result she was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Boo quickly learned to detect her owner’s oncoming PTSD attacks and helps her with everyday tasks.
Last up is Teddy Bear, a Lhasa Apso cross who has drastically changed owner Louise Jacob’s life.
As someone who has lived for depression with many years, as well as dealing with physical problems resulting from a car accident when she was a teenager, Louise struggles with many tasks. Teddy has given Louise her independence back and the pair regularly attend dog shows as well as raise funds for various charities.
The winner of the competition will receive £1,500 from the Kennel Club Charitable Trust for the charity of choice, with the other finalists receiving £1000.
Public voting is now open and the dog that goes on to receive the most votes will be crowned winner at the Birmingham NEC on the final day of Crufts, Sunday 13 March.
To vote for your favourite, text AZ, BOO, SCOOBY or TEDDY to 82727. Each text vote will cost £1 plus the standard network rate. All profits from votes will be donated to the Kennel Club Charitable Trust to help make a difference for dogs.
For full terms and conditions, please visit www.crufts.org.uk/fflterms, or for more information about the competition, visit www.crufts.org.uk/content/eukanuba-friends-for-life-2016/.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
