Our demonstration team kicked off the four day event at the NEC in Birmingham by showing hundreds of people the tasks our canine partners can carry out for their disabled partners, such as opening and closing doors, emptying the washing machine, undressing their partner and even helping them transfer from a bed to wheelchair.

Throughout the four days we had a team of demo dogs on hand for members of the public to stroke, witness tasks and ask their handler questions. Many even made donations by giving their money to the dog to put in the bucket!

One of our partnerships Wendy Hilling, who has a genetic condition called recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (EB) which means the slightest knock can cause her skin to tear or blister, took part in book signings on the Friday and Saturday. Wendy’s canine partner Ted saves her life everyday as he is trained to push a panic button if Wendy is unable to breathe. Their book ‘My Life in his Paws’ was available to purchase on the stand with 50 per cent profit coming to Canine Partners.

We are privileged to work in partnership with Help for Heroes, who have funded a number of partnerships of former service men and women. It was fantastic to see them at Crufts and demo dog Fiona certainly didn’t mind them making a fuss of her!

A massive thank you and well done to all those involved in making Crufts a fantastic experience.