‘Wonder Dog’ Wins Animal of the Year Award

A 12-year old dog, Mandy, from Cumbria has received a special award at the House of Lords from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) for saving the lives of dogs in a rescue centre, and her owner – twice.

Mandy who lives with Peter Wilson, 72, of Cockermouth won the ‘Animal of the year Award’ in IFAW’s ‘Animal Action Awards 2008’

Mandy is known locally in Cumbria as a wonder dog. A very sick Mandy survived being resuscitated and brought back to life twice, after arriving at the North Lakes Greyhound Retreat Rescue Centre under the care of Peter Wilson. Mandy has more than repaid her debt, by saving Peter’s life, not once but twice. A few years ago she raised the alarm after a fire had taken hold at the rescue centre, saving Peter’s life as well as the lives of 14 dogs. Last year, Peter was out on the fell walking some of the dogs from the centre when he had a heart attack. Mandy returned home and once again raised the alarm, leading rescuers two miles to find Peter.

The prestigious awards ceremony took place today in the Cholmondeley Room, a room overlooking the river Thames in the House of Lords hosted by Baroness Gale and presented by IFAW Patron, actress and model Lisa B. Peter Wilson was delighted to accept the award on his dog’s behalf.

“Mandy is a real symbol of what animals can do to help people and we are delighted to be able to give her this award,” said IFAW UK Director, Robbie Marsland.”

“Mandy is truly an animal hero and I am pleased to be able to present this important award in recognition of her bravery and loyalty” said Baroness Gale.

Peter’s local MP, Tony Cunningham said: “It gives me great pleasure to attend this event in support of my constituent Peter and his wonderful dog Mandy.”

The awards are part of IFAW’s Animal Action Week which is run in 14 countries globally and is sponsored by Nat Geo Wild in the UK.