A spaniel who provided virtual therapy to people across the world during the pandemic is being awarded the animal equivalent of an OBE.
Max, a 13-year-old English springer spaniel and social media star from the Lake District, will be awarded the Order of Merit by veterinary charity PDSA for his outstanding contribution to society at a virtual ceremony on Friday.
PDSA director general Jan McLoughlin said: “Max has provided a source of huge comfort – not only to his owner Kerry, but to thousands of people across the globe who are facing or have gone through hard times.
“He has become a true ambassador for the positive impact that animals have on mental health and wellbeing, which is more important now than ever. ”