A woman and her assistance dog have been nominated for a national award.
Amersham-based Ruth Spurr, and her four-legged friend, Willow, are finalists at the Animal Star Awards – a ceremony that highlights the extraordinary things that animals have done for humans.
The duo is one of just a handful of finalists for the Best Pet Blogger/Blog category from over 480 nominees.
They are also clients from the Assistance Dog Charity Dog A.I.D.
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Upon discovering that she and Willow had been shortlisted, Ruth, who has Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and PoTs, said: “I know there are many more blogs out there with thousands more followers and views and then there’s little old us here at Walking with Willow with 750 'likes' and 'followers', but, from starting at nothing with just one or two to 750 is huge for us and I love the little community we’ve built.
“I hope we can raise awareness of Assistance Dogs, Dog A.I.D. and our adventures."
Ruth Spurr and her dog, Willow
Ruth’s blog, ‘Walking with Willow’, explains how the pooch can help her with the washing, opening and closing doors, and fetching help if she were to collapse, whilst still enjoying a happy dog life.
The blog also focuses on topics from Willow’s point of view as a qualified Assistance Dog.
Ruth’s dog Willow, is a five-year-old Tibetan terrier cross
Willow, who is a five-year-old Tibetan terrier cross, became a fully qualified Assistance Dog with the charity in 2018.
Training and Development Manager for Dog A.I.D. Rachel Rodgers, said: “The whole charity is excited for Ruth and Willow.
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Willow the dog became a qualified assistance dog in 2018
“We will have all of our fingers and paws crossed on the night for them.”
“Their blog highlights just how life-changing Dog A.I.D. Assistance Dogs are.
“Willow may be small and not look like a typical assistance dog but she had saved Ruth’s life even before reaching her qualified status.”
The Animal Star Awards is now in its third year, with the 2021 ceremony taking place virtually on Sunday, March 28.
To read the Walking with Willow blog, visit www.facebook.com/walkingwillow.
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