Meet ‘The Dog who Owned 2018’…
Lulu (pictured with owner Charlotte and Lorna Martin of Barking Mad Hastings) was delighted to receive her award
A 10 year old Staffordshire bull terrier’s bravery and strength of character has led to triumph in Barking Mad’s national dog hero competition. At the end of 2018, in association with Furbo and Laughing Dog Food, we launched a search for the dog who had truly defied the odds to make the year their own. Much loved pet Lulu, from Bexhill-on-Sea in East Sussex, stole the judging panel’s hearts with the story of her gruelling battle against cancer. Despite her illness, she also amazingly provided comfort and support to her owner, during a very difficult and emotional time.
Lulu had to have several operations during 2018 to remove mast cell tumours and received treatment from Fitzpatrick Referrals. She attended their state of the art Oncology and Soft Tissue hospital in Guildford. This was followed up by a a draining four week course of radiotherapy in Sussex, for 5 days a week. Throughout her intensive and invasive cancer treatment she was very unwell but showed astounding resilience. She is now in remission.
Lulu means the world to her owner
Proud owner, Charlotte Parsons, said:
“Throughout it all she has been so brave. She was a rescue dog before we got her and had a troubled time in the past but she is the most loving and special girl. I entered Lulu to show her and everyone just how much. She has been my absolute rock this year and shows me so much love! Fitzpatrick Referrals were amazing; I can’t thank them enough.”
Lee Dancy, Barking Mad founder and MD said,
“Through our work as the UK’s largest dog sitting network, we encounter amazing dogs who brighten up the lives of those around them every day. Our dog holiday service is so popular because we understand that every dog is an individual and special in their own way. However, we wanted to recognise and reward an exceptional dog who deserved to be put upon a pedestal for their strength of character throughout the year. Lulu is truly inspirational and we are delighted to crown her with the title of ‘The Dog Who has Owned 2018’.”
Lulu and her owner Charlotte welcomed local Barking Mad franchise owner, Lorna Martin of Barking Mad Hastings, on Saturday 5th January. Lorna presented Lulu with a certificate and a Furbo, the world’s first treat tossing interactive dog camera. You can watch her in action with it below, enjoying the treats! Lulu was very happy to also receive £300 worth of tasty dog food from Laughing Dog, which is made on a British family farm.
Lulu thinks her prize is lip smacking good!
