Rescue dog makes finals for Royal Kennel Club Hero Dog Award ahead of Crufts 2026

A rescue dog from Kilmarnock is in the running to be crowned the UK’s most heroic dog ahead of the prestigious Crufts awards.

Six-year-old Jack Russell cross Skittles is among the finalists for the Royal Kennel Club Hero Dog Award, held in Birmingham in March.

When her elderly owners were no longer able to care for her, she was taken in by dog trainer Maggie McNamara, 36. At the time, Skittles was timid and fearful.

“She was really nervous, scared of people and unsure of the entire world,” Maggie said. “Now she loves people, loves other dogs and is out there making a difference.”

Skittles 'brings joy' to residents in local care homes — Skittles ‘brings joy’ to residents in local care homes STV News

Maggie helped transform Skittles into a confident companion and therapy dog. Together, they visit schools, care homes and support people who have experienced trauma.

They also work with children, take part in flyball and agility, deliver assistance dog training and lead monthly mental health walks.

Skittles now plays a vital role in Maggie’s own life, helping her navigate autism and other health conditions.

“She is my best friend,” she said. “She’s such a good assistance dog – she builds independence for me, allowing me to go out and live a full normal life.

“I can be overwhelmed in busy places and she’ll guide me somewhere quiet so I can get myself back together. She’ll take me back to my van if I forget where I’ve parked it. She reminds me to take my medication and migraine alerts. She tests food for allergens; I can’t eat dairy as it makes my migraines worse – she can tell if there’s dairy in my food or not.”

Skittles has grown from a timid pup into a confident companion STV News

Maggie admitted she initially thought the email informing her of Skittles’ nomination was a scam – until a follow-up phone call from The Kennel Club confirmed the news.

“It was a bit of a ‘this isn’t happening’ moment,” she said. “It’s absolutely incredible.

“I grew up at the back end of Glasgow in poverty – with disability, addiction and domestic violence in our family.

“This is a lifelong dream come true. I always wanted to do this, and now we’re going and getting to walk that green carpet.”

Staff at a local care home say Skittles has become part of the family.

“Skittles is like one of our own,” said care manager Sarah MacAskill. “She comes in and it’s like she knows everyone. She brings so much joy.

“She brings smiles to the residents’ faces and reminds them of when they had pets of their own. It’s lovely to see them so relaxed and happy.”

The winner of the Royal Kennel Club Hero Dog Award will be announced on the last day of Crufts at Birmingham’s NEC Arena on March 8.