A St Albans schoolboy and his trusty four-legged companion are up for an award at Crufts, the most prestigious of dog shows.
Ashley Owens, who goes to Beaumont School, and his dog Bertie have been named as finalists in the Child’s Champion category of The Kennel Club Hero Dog award.
Together the duo have been sleeping out in a tent every night in a bid to raise £30,000 for charity Paws2Rescue.
Ashley has now spent more than 650 nights in the tent with 10-year-old Bertie by his side every step of the way.
Speaking to StAlbansNews, Ashley, who together with Bertie has appeared on several national TV shows recently, described his furry companion as a “hero”.
He said: “I think Bertie is a hero dog because he’s a great companion outside; He’s very committed to staying with me and has helped me through the tough nights.
“He would wait by the door when I was getting ready for the bed and then head straight to the tent when I opened the door.”
Ashley’s mum Emma said: “We are so proud of Ashley. He’s broken his ankle and been ill and still slept in the tent. I really admire him and think it’s amazing.
“It’s not just about the money it’s about raising awareness.”
The winner of The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award will receive £5,000 from The Kennel Club Charitable Trust for the dog charity of their choice, with the other finalists receiving a £1,000 donation to their chosen canine charity.
You can vote for Ashley and Bertie until 4pm on Sunday, March 12 here.
You can donate to Ashley’s fundraising here.
Photo credit: The Kennel Club and Eleanor Riley
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