Friends for Life winners announced
Owen and Haatchi
Companionship between dog and owner celebratedSeven-year-old Owen Howkins and his three-legged Anatolian shepherd, Haatchi, have been announced winners of the Crufts Friends for Life competition.
The award celebrates the pair's bravery, support and companionship to one another, and recognises that one-year-old Haatchi has truly earned his title as man's best friend.
As a small puppy, Haatchi was tied to a railway line and hit by a train. Both his tail and one of his back legs were amputated as a result.
A month later, he found a new home with Owen, who suffers from a rare genetic condition called Schwartz-Jampel syndrome. This condition causes his muscles to constantly tense.
Owen was always shy and withdrawn, but when Haatchi came along, he was given a new lease of life. He was encouraged to meet a dog that needed regular medical attention just like him.
After being awarded the trophy at the recent Crufts event, Owen said: "I am glad that Haatchi is in my life because he makes me smile all the time and is my best friend."
Owen was also given a cheque for £1,500 from the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, which he has chosen to donate to the Naomi House children's hospice.
Caroline Kisko, the Kennel Club secretary, commented: "We congratulate Owen and Haatchi on winning this award. They are truly deserving winners and their story is so incredibly moving.
"Each and every one of the finalists today have helped to change and save lives, and can teach us all a lesson about loyalty, companionship and bravery."
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.
