大象传媒

Meet the finalists in the Animal category for 大象传媒 Radio Solent's Make a Difference Awards for 2024. The Animal Award is for animals that improve the lives of people, or people that improve animal welfare.

Teddy is a miniature Shih Tzu, his owner, Rebecca Dymott, wanted Teddy to make a positive difference to the lives of others and each week they visit a care home and schools in Ashurst, near Southampton. "Everyone who spends time with Teddy loves him and he puts huge smiles on every face. He has a fabulous character and temperament."

Dave and Jane Rodrigues, from Southsea, organise monthly fundraising dog walks around Hampshire and the south coast for the charity Schnauzerfest. The charity pays veterinary bills for dogs saved from puppy farming and other tough backgrounds, as well as giving veterinary grants to dog rescues.

Carol Court, from the Isle of Wight, started Ability Dogs 4 Young People in 2012. The charity trains assistance dogs to enhance the independence of disabled young people and children living on the island with physical and mental disabilities, including cerebral palsy, autism, diabetes and epilepsy. "Carol could see the positive impact a canine companion could have on children and young people, whose every day is a challenge, resulting in isolation and increased anxiety."

Mr Kelloggs is a miniature therapy horse, from Bournemouth. He has been visiting people in care homes, hospices, and hospitals for four years. "He brings a sparkle of joy to all those who need it. Being so small and agile means he can interact with everyone even going into lifts to reach people who can not leave their rooms, and navigating through small spaces and around equipment. His character is sweet and gentle and he has such a calm and affectionate demure. Faces just light up and spirits are lifted when he walks into a room, all their worries and pain just slip away briefly while they stroke his soft nose, smooth his long golden mane, and chat away to him."

The Make a Difference Awards are your chance to say 鈥淭hank You鈥� and show recognition and appreciation for people who love to make life better for others. Nominations for the 2024 awards have now closed and finalists have been selected by a panel of judges. The winners will be announced at our 大象传媒 Radio Solent Make a Difference Awards ceremony in September.

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