Meet the Remarkable Dogs Changing Lives at Crufts

Excitement is building as dog lover Stephanie Thom prepares for her annual showcase of "big friendly giants" at Crufts. This year, her five deerhounds are set to capture hearts at the Discover Dogs exhibition, emphasizing the bond between humans and their canine companions.

Community Engagement through Canines

Stephanie's eldest dogs, Rani and Ru, are more than just pets; they serve an educational purpose as part of the Bark Smart programme, teaching children how to interact safely with dogs. Their community involvement illustrates how dogs can bridge gaps and foster learning in young minds.

A Personal Journey of Healing

While these majestic dogs contribute to the community, they also play a crucial role in Stephanie's personal life. She openly shares how her deerhounds provide her with emotional support and stability, significantly impacting her mental health. "If I didn’t have my dogs, I’d have nothing to get out of bed for in the morning," she says, highlighting the profound bond between humans and animals.

Celebrating Canine Excellence

Stephanie's commitment to dog showing has yielded impressive results, with various accolades at Crufts in previous years. The upcoming event, set from 5-8 March 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, promises to be a platform not only for showcasing excellence in dog breeds but also for celebrating the joy pets bring to our lives.

As we look forward to this year’s Crufts, it becomes clear that events like these are more than competitions; they are heartfelt celebrations of love, support, and companionship in the unique human-animal relationship.