The wait is over! It’s time to vote for your favourite winner in the Your Dog, Your Hero competition.

We’ve received so many heartwarming nominations from across Cumbria, and now it’s over to you to choose your favourite from our inspiring finalists.

Read their incredible stories below and tick your chosen hero on the next page to cast your vote. The dog with the most votes will win the grand prize of a glamping break for them and their owner at one of our five-star, dog-friendly destinations.
1. ‘Heidi is my hero for adapting to her condition and living a full and happy life’ Barbara, Seaton
Heidi, a nine-year-old Miniature Schnauzer, was diagnosed with Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS) two years ago – a condition that causes rapid, irreversible blindness in dogs. Her owner, Barbara Hemingway, calls Heidi her hero. By following voice commands, Heidi learned to stay safe and even walk off-lead by following her owners’ scent and falconry bells.
2. ‘Ernie came to us as a pet but has become so much more’ Janice, Carlisle
German Shepherd puppy, Ernie, has helped Janice and Steve Minnikin cope with Steve’s hearing loss. Ernie learnt to respond to sounds such as the doorbell, fire and smoke alarms, phone calls and reversing trucks. Ernie has become a fantastic support for Steve, who has since regained his hearing thanks to a recent cochlear implant.
3. ‘Summer truly has the heart of a hero’ Rebecca, Penrith
Summer, a Flat-Coated Retriever, came into Rebecca Schulz’s life following a sudden family bereavement, with her playful spirit bringing light to a house full of grief. Now seven years old, Summer remains a kind and soulful companion, completely in tune with human emotions and always there with her wagging tail.
4. ‘My dogs are my life, it’s that simple’ Chris, Appleby
For Chris Johnson, his dogs are his world. Chris has two dogs: Woody, a Golden Labrador and Fred, a Red and White Collie. Chris entered the competition to celebrate the selfless devotion his dogs bring to his life and to pay tribute to Sam, his beloved border collie who passed away in May 2025.
5. ‘Indie is the most adorable, affectionate and resilient little Labrador’ Karen, Workington
Karen Wilson and Lisa Rowe’s dog, Indie, was diagnosed with cancer in April 2025. The energetic Labrador endured weeks of strict rest, hand-feeding and an intense chemotherapy. Despite this, Indie never lost her gentle nature or wagging tail. On September 1, Karen and Lisa received the wonderful news that Indie was in remission.
6. ‘I call her my ‘therapy pal’ because that’s exactly what she is’ Heidi, Egremont
Despite not being hers, Gem is more than just a dog to Heidi Martin. The border collie has been a constant support, particularly when Heidi went through a difficult time last year. They met at Parkrun two years ago and from that moment, she became a huge part of Heidi’s life.
7. ‘Shelby brought a new lease of life to the farm and is always by our side’ Marie, Wigton
A cocker spaniel called Shelby has brought a new lease of life to Marie Johnston and her partner Neil Young’s Farm. Before they got Shelby, they had lost their passion for the farming life. Since then, Shelby has joined their routine and reminded them why they do what they do.

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