New research from The Kennel Club, released ahead of World Mental Health Day (10 October), reveals the positive impact that dogs have on their owner’s wellbeing, particularly those who struggle with stress, anxiety and loneliness.
Three in four (73%) owners find that their dog improves their mental health, as well as helping to relieve feelings of stress and loneliness, while more than two-thirds (71%) say their dog helps to relieve feelings of anxiety.
Ellie O’Donnell, aged 23 from Horsham, credits her dog, Lux for being her lifeline when her mental health was at an all-time low: “When I got Lux, I had recently finished university and was really struggling to find myself, but then going to training with Lux every Wednesday and Saturday, I found myself really thriving again.
“Lux teaches me to playful again and see the fun in things. Dogs are such a fundamental part of my life. Not having that best friend to help with routine, bring comfort or spend time with was a massive struggle for me – routine is something I find fundamental as an autistic person.
“Once I got Lux is when I started to feel myself again, to see the world as I used to.”
To celebrate the many ways that our four-legged friends help us, this World Mental Health Day The Kennel Club is calling for nominations for its Hero Dog Award 2025, in order to recognise those unsung canine heroes who have a positive impact on the lives of their owners, as well as those around them.
“The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award celebrates this extraordinary impact our canine companions can have – whether that’s providing us with unconditional love, loyalty and comfort, or those who go above and beyond to protect us and help those with disabilities.
“We invite everyone who owns or knows a dog that has made a remarkable difference to nominate their unsung canine hero and help us shine a spotlight on why dogs are truly our best friends.”
The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award winner and finalists receive funding from The Kennel Club Charitable Trust – giving back to those amazing dogs, organisations and charities which have changed lives and helped all those facing challenges with mental health.
Nominations can be made by visiting crufts.org.uk/dogheroaward. Finalists will be announced next year, ahead of the winner being crowned at Crufts 2025, taking place at the NEC in Birmingham from 6 – 9 March 2025.
