A DALRY dog lover admits seeing her housemate and her special pooch make the final of a national competition would be really special.

Anna Hicks nominated white and black Jack Russell Hungarian Vizsla cross Boston in the Kennel Club’s Eukanuba Friends for Life competition at Crufts 2016 after the remarkable mutt helped her close friend, Nicola Russell, turn her life around.

The competition celebrates heart-warming stories of friendship in adversity across the UK.

The bond between Boston and Nicola, pictured left, has proved to be a two-way relationship too.

Nicola is limited by her physical and mental disabilities and is unable to leave her home without a wheelchair.

However, such has been the turnaround since Boston came into their lives as a puppy, Nicola has discovered a new level of independence.

“Nicola has various disabilities and will not go out of the house alone, but if she’s got Boston then she will,” explained Anna.

“He isn’t a trained assistance dog, but he does provide the encouragement for her to go out without carers and he helps her with so many different tasks.

“Just a couple of weeks ago I went out and left a pot on the ring while she was still upstairs and in bed, and he raised the alarm while the downstairs was filling with smoke so she could deal with it.

“We are waiting for the presentation ceremony for the PDSA Commendation he has been awarded.

“It would mean so much to Nicola if he could go and win this competition at Crufts too. He’s a very intelligent dog and has passed his assessment to be registered as a Therapet.”

Anna, Nicola and Boston will be hoping for a trip to the Kennel Club’s showpiece on Sunday, March 13 at Birmingham’s NEC.

Caroline Kisko, of the Kennel Club said: “Anna and Boston are thoroughly deserving of this nomination and we wish them luck.”