Dogs don’t just fill your heart; they actually make it stronger. Studies show that having a canine companion is linked to a number of positive health outcomes, as well as being great company to have around. At Way Ahead Care we know the happiness dogs can bring to lives, so we decided to have our own cruft’s competition.

Way Ahead Care staff were invited to send in photos of their dogs of which an album was produced. This album was sent to all service users across Somerset and Bath so they could vote for their favourite. We had over 35 entries, from Bassett Hounds to Chihuahua’s to Labradors. We had stunning photos taken out on walks, photos of dog showing off previous completion wins and others pulling silly faces or poses.

The feedback was outstanding, with over 350 service users voting for their favourite dog. The result was extremely close, with only 10 votes between the winner and the runner up.

Way Ahead Care is a family run providing care and support to adults of all ages and disabilities 25 years this year,

We ensure continued wellbeing and independence striving to provide quality and flexible care and support services designed to meet the individual’s needs.

Way Ahead Care Crufts was not just about the cutest dog, it was about service

users and staff being involved in something together. One thing this competition did, was start conversations, between everyone, it was the talk of the company. To take five minutes out of your day, and look at some photos of dogs, has to be good for the mind and soul.

The winner was Mia, a golden retriever owned by Zara Murphy, a Community Support Worker based in Taunton. With runner up going to Molly, a Coca-poo, owned by Emma Richardson, Way Ahead Care’s Finance Manager. Congratulations to the winners, and thank you so much to everyone who got involved.

Let’s hope to have more entries in 2020, and more votes!