Lorraine and Eurwyn have twin teenage girls, Alex and Sarah. Lorraine writes about the joy Cavaliers have brought into their lives. “Most people who attend the dog shows know how much the girls love their cavaliers. They were born with a rare genetic syndrome, have special needs and have learning difficulties but have always loved the shows. Recently we have taken them to more open shows where they have had a go and have won quite a few prizes. Of course, they are delighted if they just win a prize and the colour of the rosette is unimportant!

The best day was at Rhyl open show where Sarah showed her special boy ‘Disney’ and to our delight, she won Best of Breed and came third in the Toy Group. We were all over the moon and the pleasure was as great as winning at champ shows. Another thrill came when Alex showed her dog, ‘Lynx’ at the Midland Cavalier Ch show. This was the first time Alex had showed properly at this level and it was ‘Lynx’ first show. She did a great job and qualified him for Crufts. At Caernarfon Open show, Loranka’s Just like Heaven went Best in Show and Loranka’s Star So Bright, a black/tan, gained her Junior Warrant at 14 months, helped by Alex.

Did anyone see the film ‘Thomas’ about a Golden Retriever who helped an autistic child? Our cavaliers have been very similar for the girls. They have given them a lifeline and a life they would have never had. The girls do not go out to play like normal kids, as it is not safe. In fact they do not go anywhere on their own, But they have the dogs who they love to bits and are just as obsessed with them as I am! Sarah has just come home from school and the first thing she has done is see to the dogs and collect their dishes. They are very clever with the dogs at home, knowing exactly what to feed each dog, even the fussy eaters.

They talk to the dogs more than any human and the dogs listen. Both have their own grooming kit at home and will get the dogs on their lap by the fire and give them a good grooming. The dogs just sit and enjoy it.

They love taking them for walks in the forest, with us of course, and at every show and pet shop, they have to buy toys, leads, or blankets for them. I just wanted to let you know how cavaliers have enriched our lives and given Alex and Sarah a better life.”