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A life-saving assistance dog has been crowned the UK’s Hardest Working Dog after a nationwide search from specialist dog-food brand, Autarky.

Autarky launched the campaign to recognise the hard work and dedication of active canines across the UK — whether they exceled in their chosen sport, served their country, showed unconditional support to their owner or stole the nation’s hearts on the big screen.  

Rowley was nominated by Dog A.I.D — a charity which helps train pet dogs into fully qualified assistance dogs to help their physically disabled owners’ complete everyday tasks. 

Owner Megan was only 15 when she sustained a serious head injury and was later diagnosed with an underlying condition before developing a complex neurological condition.

Rowley is the first ever Dual-Purpose Assistance Dog trained by Guide Dogs in partnership with Dog A.I.D. In less than a year, he has alerted Megan to over 800 medical episodes — that is 800 potentially life-saving moments. Through Rowley’s incredible skills, he can alert Megan to an oncoming fainting attack up to seven minutes in advance by using his nose to detect biochemical changes in her body. 

Of Rowley’s win, Megan says: “I can't quite believe we have won! There were so many incredible dogs in the competition and to be chosen as the winners is amazing! Rowley saves my life every day so for him be recognised as the UK's Hardest Working Dog really means a lot to me. 

“I am truly blessed to have him in my life and couldn't be prouder. Thank you to everyone who voted for us and to the judges for choosing us as your winners!”

One of the three expert judges, Sarah Wright — editor of Your Dog Magazine — says: “It’s been a real privilege helping to judge the Autarky Hardest Working Dog competition 2020. All four finalists were amazing, hard-working dogs whose skills, loyalty, and dedication exemplified how dogs enhance our lives. 

“They are all winners, but the title Autarky Hardest Working Dog could only go to one finalist, and it’s assistance dog Rowley for his remarkable live-saving skills and his commitment to his owner, Megan.”

For his win, Rowley receives a hamper of products for an active dog worth £500, plus a year’s supply of Autarky food.

For more information about the campaign, and to read about all four finalists, visit www.autarkyfoods.com/hardestworkingdog/

Autarky is a specialist dog food brand that’s formulated by one of Britain’s leading canine nutritionists. The brand launched a campaign to find the UK’s Hardest Working Dog, whose actions captured the imagination of the UK public and a team of expert judges. Megan's dog Rowley won the Healthcare & Assistance Dogs category.