Susi is crowned “Working Dog of the Year” at the Animal Star Awards 2025

Triple role wonder dog Susi, has been awarded Working Dog of the Year at the Animal Star Awards 2025 in recognition of her exceptional service as an Assistance Dog, School Therapy Dog, and Wellbeing Support Dog with Wiltshire Search and Rescue.  Susi, a three year old husky mix, lives with her owner, Felicity Roberts, in Ogbourne St George. 

Susie provides daily life-changing support as an Assistance Dog, recognising and alerting to a medical condition. She is also School Therapy Dog at Ogbourne St George Primary School, where she brings calm and joy to children, offering a listening ear during reading sessions and emotional comfort through cuddles and companionship.

In a pioneering role, Susi also serves as Wiltshire Search and Rescue’s first ever Wellbeing Support Dog, supporting the mental health and morale of the search and rescue team. Her presence helps volunteers during difficult life-and-death operations, and offers a reassuring paw to those when debriefing after dealing with high-pressure situations.

“Susi is more than just a working dog — she’s a lifeline, a friend, and a source of strength to everyone she meets,” said Felicity Roberts. “I am incredibly proud that her tireless love and support have been recognised on a national stage.”

Adrian Sawyer, Chair of Wiltshire Search and Rescue, adds “Susi has become a loved member of the team since day one, and brightens the room whenever she attends training or is waiting at the RV point during a exercise or callout”.

The Animal Star Awards celebrate the incredible achievements of animals and those who dedicate their lives to their welfare. Susi’s award highlights the evolving and essential role that working dogs play in education, wellbeing, and emergency services.”

The Animal Star Awards is the UK’s premier, Animal Related Awards Programme. The awards showcase over 120 of Britain’s Pet Related Businesses, Animal Charities & Rescue Centres. Every year the Animal Star Awards, brings together exceptional people and organisations that do extraordinary things for animals. For more information click here.