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.
She is so willing to learn
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.
My 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.
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.
She's a real family friend
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.
She 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.
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!
He prefers to do the opposite of all other dogs
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!
He 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.
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.
I 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.
I am honoured (Will) has transferred his love and loyalty to me
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.
Will 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.
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.
He has already made a big difference to my life
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!
He 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.
Named after his love for climbing trees, Monkey enriches my life as well as the lives of many others.
The change he makes to my life is remarkable
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.
The 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!