WEBBOX JOY OF PETS AWARD
MAX, PADDY AND HARRY
Pooch pals became a social media sensation as their antics helped people struggling with their mental health during lockdown.
Kerry Irving credits springer spaniel Max with saving his life when the effects of a serious road accident left him suffering depression and feeling suicidal.
After adopting Max seven years ago, slowly but surely, Kerry found the strength to get back out in the world again.
Springers Paddy, four, and Harry, two, joined the clan more recently and now Kerry has a trio of dogs who help him face life every day.
Recognising how his walks with the dogs had helped his own wellbeing, Kerry decided to help others struggling with their mental health by filming the dogs’ adventures and sharing them online.
Max, Paddy and Harry now have 144,000 followers on Facebook. During lockdown, the films took on a new importance, helping and inspiring those struggling with isolation and helping to raise awareness of people battling depression.