Allen Parton and Canine Partner, Endal, were presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Wag & Bone Awards in recognition of their achievement in making so many people in the world aware of how one dog can make such a difference to a person’s life.

As a puppy Endal, pictured here with proud partner Allen, was selected for training by assistance dog charity Canine Partners. A Royal Navy electronics officer who suffered severe physical and emotional problems after a serious accident in the Gulf, Allen met Endal when his wife was volunteering as a puppy walker for the charity and the two have been inseparable ever since.

‘Some people think that angels have only two legs,’ said Allen. ‘Now I know that some have four!’