Care home dog makes Crufts final

A dog that has spent her entire life living in a dementia care home changing the lives of its elderly residents, is one of the four finalists in the prestigious Eukanuba Friends for Life competition at Crufts 2015.

Ellie May is one of just four dogs who have made it to the final of this competition, which celebrates the close bond between people and their dogs.

The winner will be chosen by public vote and announced on Sunday, 8 March 2015 at Crufts.

The first prize is £1,500 and the other finalists will receive £750 each from the Kennel Club Charitable Trust for their chosen charities.

Nine-year-old Ellie May, a Lhaso Apso, is owned by care home manager, Julie Cashell, who runs Oaklands Care Home, Llangynidr in Wales.

Ms Cashell said: “Often it is only Ellie May's presence that motivates or entices the residents in the home to take a walk around our beautiful village and she also helps to make visitors, particularly young family members, feel at ease, uniting everyone with her wagging tail and affection.

“She is a fundamental part of our care team and is always there at the bedsides of our residents when they are sick or unwell, giving invaluable comfort in their hours of need. She makes the care home a 'home' and brings everyone together, as a family.”

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, said: "All of the finalists for the Eukanuba Friends for Life competition demonstrate just how important dogs are to our lives and what a difference they make to us, both in our best times and when things are tough."

Jose Luis Ibanez from dog food manufacturers Eukanuba, said: "We are so pleased to be part of a competition that celebrates how loyal and loving man's best friend truly is. It is now down to the public to choose the overall winner whose story touches them the most, which will be announced on the final night of Crufts."

People can vote for their ultimate 'Eukanuba Friend for Life' at channel4.com/cruftsvote. Find out more information about the competition at www.crufts.org.uk/eukanubafriendsforlife