Local dog receives prize for bravery at Irish Kennel Club awards

Frankie, a 12-year-old Jack Russell from Westmeath, has received an award for bravery from the Irish Kennel Club Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards.

The 12-year-old dog was one of seven finalists of the Irish Kennel Club awards.

Category winners will receive a category trophy and a cash prize with the overall winner receiving the coveted overall trophy and an additional cash prize.

In 2017, Frankie faced an unimaginable ordeal when he was struck by a car and left for dead.

Found bloodied and broken, he suffered a cracked pelvis, head trauma that took his hearing and uncertain chances of recovery.

However, Frankie’s resilience never wavered. Now 12 years old, he continues to spread joy and love, comforting his owner’s mother during recovery, exploring the family farm and playing football with children.

His deafness hasn’t slowed him down. Instead, he has become even more attuned to those around him.

A true symbol of courage and perseverance, Frankie’s story is one of strength, love and the unbreakable spirit of a hero.

An esteemed panel of judges include Neil Kenna (barman from RTE’s First Dates Ireland), Andrea Smith (journalist and devoted dog lover), Pat O’Boyle (President, Irish Kennel Club) and Bernard O’Sullivan (Managing Director of Agria).

The judges will choose an overall winner which will be announced at a glittering award ceremony at The Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge next Saturday, February 22.