A BORDER Collie who helped a man in his recovery from a serious accident has been recognised with a national award.
At the Pets As Therapy Awards (PAT), held recently in London, Sweep was named Dog of the Year.
Sweep, whose owner Anne Quarrie lives in Blaydon, Tyne and Wear, was nominated by Phil Smith, 52.
Mr Smith has been blind since the age of eight and is also severely disabled, after being knocked down on a pedestrian crossing two years ago.
Following the accident, Sweep was taken to visit him regularly while in hospital and now visits Mr Smith in his specially adapted home.
Mr Smith said: "When I was in rehab, Sweep would always brighten my day and give me something to look forward to."
The awards, sponsored by pet food brand Iams, was held to raise awareness of the Pets As Therapy scheme and the dogs and cats which are taken to visit hospitals, hospices, nursing and care homes, as part of the initiative.
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