Meet the Gentle Giants: A Dog Owner's Heartwarming Journey to Crufts

In a heartening story from Ormskirk, dog owner Stephanie Thom is gearing up for her annual visit to the prestigious Crufts event with her beloved “big friendly giants.” Stephanie, 58, proudly showcases her five deerhounds at the Discover Dogs exhibition, including the youngest member, Phantom, who will be part of the Kennel Club’s Puppy Foundation display.

Community Champions

Among her remarkable canine companions are Rani and Ru, her two eldest deerhounds, who play a significant role in their local community. They are actively involved in the Bark Smart program, where they educate schoolchildren on safe interactions with dogs. This initiative not only helps to foster understanding and respect between children and animals but also enhances community spirit.

Achievements and Personal Growth

The journey to Crufts has been rewarding for both Stephanie and her dogs. Over the years, Rani and Ru have garnered accolades, previously taking first and second place in their junior categories in 2020. More recently, Ianthe collected two prizes in 2025, showcasing her skills in the Kennel Club Good Citizen class. These achievements reflect not only the training and dedication involved but also the unbreakable bond between Stephanie and her dogs.

A Source of Comfort and Strength

Stephanie candidly shares how her dogs have positively influenced her life. Struggling with anxiety and depression, she admits that her deerhounds provide her with essential emotional support. "If I didn’t have my dogs, I’d have nothing to get out of bed for in the morning," she reflects. Their innate ability to sense her emotions and offer companionship during tough times underscores the profound relationship shared between humans and their pets.

Forward to Crufts

With Crufts set to take place from March 5 to 8, 2025, at the NEC Birmingham, Stephanie's enthusiasm is palpable. She looks forward to introducing the deerhound breed to new audiences, emphasizing their gentle nature—despite their size. The event will be a celebration of not just the dogs, but the love and devotion that accompany the human-animal bond.

For those interested, highlights of the event will be broadcasted on Channel 4 and More4, allowing viewers to appreciate the joy that dogs bring to our lives. Stephanie’s story serves as a reminder of the positive impact that pets can have on our well-being and the importance of responsible dog ownership in fostering community connections.