Seven-year-old Owen Howkins and his dog Haatchi from Basingstoke in Hampshire have won the 'Friends for Life' prize at Crufts. ITV Meridian have featured the best friends on our programmes in the past. Have a look at their stories on our website by clicking here.
Haatchi the dog and his seven-year-old owner Owen Howkins from Basingstoke, have won the 'Friends for Life' prize at Crufts.
Seven-year-old Owen Howkins from Basingstoke has been talking about how his three-legged dog Haatchi turned his life around. Haatchi has been nominated for a Crufts award for heroic dogs.
ITV Meridian first spoke to Owen and his family about Haatchi back in August 2012. Read more about their story by clicking here.
Owen said: "Haatchi has changed my life. I used to be scared of strangers, then Haatchi came along and now I'm not and that's how he changed my life.
"I didn't really meet many others with disabilities and felt like the odd one out, which made me really sad.
"But when I saw Haatchi and saw how strong he was, even though he only had three legs, I became stronger myself.
"I love him so much."
Haatchi is one of five dog heroes competing in a public vote for the 'Friends for Life Award' at Crufts 2013.
An Anatolian Shepard dog from Hampshire will receive a special award in the House of Lords later.
Haatchi lost his rear leg and his tail after he was tied to a railway line and hit by a train.
Despite his injuries he has recently qualified as a Pets as Therapy dog and formed a close bond with his owner Owen.
Queen guitarist Brian May will present Haatchi with his award from the International Fund for Animal Welfare later.
Both have suffered cruel misfortunes, but thanks to a fortunate twist of fate, the future is looking much brighter for a boy and his dog.
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