A NATIONWIDE search has begun to find the UK’s top dog hero.

The annual Eukanuba Friends for Life competition celebrates a lifetime of friendship between humans and their dogs and the heart-warming stories of how they enrich eachother’s lives.

The Kennel Club is now searching for inspiring stories that showcase just how much dogs do for humans, and is calling on residents to nominate a canine companion that deserves recognition for what they do.

The winner of the Friends for Life competition 2017 will be revealed at Crufts, at the NEC in Birmingham on March 12.

They will win £3,000 for a dog charity of their choice and runners up will receive £750 for their chosen dog charity.

Dogs can be nominated for the categories Extraordinary Life of a Working Dog, Giving Longevity Through Assistance, A Life of Friendship and Giving the Best Start in Life.

Nominations are open until December 12and four finalists will be chosen to go forward to the final, where the overall winner will be selected by public vote.

Last year’s winner was Boo the Lurcher, who transformed the life of owner Rosie Reid, following complications in pregnancy that left her unable to have children and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, said: “As a fitting tribute, the winner will take centre stage at the Genting Arena during Crufts 2017, an event which is dedicated to celebrating the diverse role that dogs play in society and the way that they enrich our lives.
“We encourage anybody whose dog has earned the title of Eukanuba Friend for Life to put them forward for recognition in this competition.”

For more information visitcrufts.org.uk/content/eukanuba-friends-for-life.