Wanted: Plucky pet heroes

Blue Cross pet charity is appealing for tales of hero pets that have done something amazing to change or even save a life, as it opens nominations for the Blue Cross Medal 2016.

From life-saving search and rescue dogs, to caring companion cats, the Medal celebrates the important role pets play in our lives and the incredible difference they can make for their owners and other people. The leading pet charity is calling on animal lovers to speak up for inspirational pets who could be the 2016 medal-winner.

Sally de la Bedoyere, Blue Cross chief executive and one of the judges for last year’s medal, said: “The Blue Cross medal is our way of honouring the amazing connection we have with our pets – the winner’s story could be as simple as a pet that has changed someone’s life with the bond they share, or as dramatic as a daring rescue. Our pets can be heroes for all sorts of reasons and we want to hear your stories about the ways that they have made a difference.”

Previous winners include inspirational rescue dog turned Pets as Therapy dog, Bonnie, who spent years helping vulnerable people in her community and amazing Medical Detection dog, Daisy, who detected cancer in her owner, as well as hundreds of others.

The Blue Cross Medal was reinstated in 2014 to mark the centenary of the First World War when it first awarded a number of medals to honour horses which had served in the war.

Sick, injured and homeless pets have relied on Blue Cross since 1897 and the charity played an important role providing front line veterinary care to horses during World War One.

The Blue Cross Medal is open to pets that have done something brave, life-changing partnerships, assistance animals and serving or working animals. Deadline for entries is October 31, 2016.

To nominate a pet and find out more, visit blue cross