10 days was all it took for the ultimate friendship to blossom between Captain and his owner Danny

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.

He 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.

Apparently 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!”

I 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!

He actually smiles in his sleep

Poppy the cockapoo and her owner Victoria share such a special bond

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.

Poppy never judges me. She just listens and loves me unconditionally

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.

Vivienne and Lacie share a close bond and an optimistic outlook on life

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.

She’s my sunshine dog

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.

After rescuing Lola, Lisa loves her life with her gentle giant

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.

She 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.

Life during lockdown would have been impossible without his companionship

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.

When she jumps up her paws go on your shoulders and she gives you almost a human cuddle.

Leanne couldn’t imagine even a day without her beautiful dog Nova, who’s constant affection and positive energy brighten up her world.

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.

Always looks so happy

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.

Sharing 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.

Ever is Chris’ constant companion, whether he’s relaxing at home or travelling around the world

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.

At 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.

At 51kg, he’s a big, gentle, cuddly bear

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.

He 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.