A PEMBROKESHIRE dog lover is hoping to make the final of a prestigious Kennel Club competition.

Susan Cooper from Llanfyrnach has nominated her Carpathian/Husky cross Lady for the Eukanuba Friends for Life contest at Crufts after rescuing her from one of the notorious Romanian dog shelters last April.

The competition celebrates heart-warming stories of friendship in adversity, where dogs have truly earned the title of man’s best friend through bravery, support or companionship.

Susan said: “I rescued Lady from what can only be described as a Romanian kill shelter.

“She needed a chance and it’s really quite a story how far she has come.

The bond between the pair has proved to be a two-way relationship with Susan training Lady to be a fully-fledged therapy dog. She now visits bed-ridden residents, who say it is the highlight of their week.

“Lady does everything and anything I ask from her,” said Susan.

“She is the most wonderful dog and a wonderful companion. She does agility training now and is doing really well.

“I’d love for her to make the final or even win. What this dog has done for the community is amazing. Crufts is just the top when it comes to the dog world. It would be a dream come true.”

Susan and Lady will be hoping for another trip out for the Kennel Club’s Friends for Life showpiece on Sunday, March 13 at Birmingham’s NEC.

Kennel Club spokesperson, Caroline Kisko, said: “Susan and Lady are thoroughly deserving of this nomination and the Kennel Club wishes them luck in the competition.

“We have been honoured to hear about the hundreds of dogs throughout the UK who are making a profound difference to people’s lives.

“Crufts is the world’s best known dog stage and encourage anybody who thinks that their dog’s loyalty, friendship or bravery has made a difference to their life, or the lives of others, to get in touch. Each and every one of the finalists has helped to change and save lives in their own unique and special way.”