Meet the Gentle Giants: An Inspiring Journey of a Dog Owner at Crufts

As the countdown begins to the prestigious Crufts dog show, one Ormskirk resident is excited to showcase her beloved deerhounds, making her annual visit to highlight their extraordinary qualities. Stephanie Thom, 58, is passionate about sharing the magic of her 'big friendly giants' and their positive impact on the community.

A Life-Changing Bond

Owner of five deerhounds, Stephanie has dedicated herself not only to showing her dogs but also to using them for community engagement through the Bark Smart programme, which educates children on interacting safely with dogs. Her oldest dogs, Rani and Ru, hold a special place in schools, helping to create a safer and more informed generation of pet owners.

Achievements and Recognition

Stephanie’s dogs have not only participated in community service; they have also found success in the competitive world of dog shows. Over the years, they have garnered accolades at Crufts, showcasing their exceptional temperament and training. Ianthe and Dava, the younger members of the pack, have proudly earned the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Good Citizen Awards with the Kennel Club, further highlighting the standards of excellence Stephanie upholds.

Emotional Support and Wellbeing

Beyond accolades, Stephanie acknowledges the profound role her dogs play in her mental wellbeing. Living with anxiety and depression, she credits her deerhounds for being her emotional support, motivating her to navigate through life. "If I didn’t have my dogs, I’d have nothing to get out of bed for in the morning," she remarked, underlining the deep bond and mutual reliance between them.

The Heart of Crufts

Crufts, taking place from 5-8 March 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, is a celebration of the enduring love between dogs and their human companions. As Ms. Thom prepares to take her deerhounds to the event, she hopes to inspire others with the gentle nature of these magnificent dogs, proving that they can be excellent companions regardless of their size.

For those interested in witnessing the joy and companionship that dogs bring, Crufts presents an unmissable opportunity. The public can follow the highlights on Channel 4 and More4, while more information and tickets are available at crufts.org.uk.