A WEST Cumbrian has certified her Crufts level show dog for therapy sessions in the community.

Six year-old whippet Roscoe has seen success in the dog show world, particularly excelling in the child handling category.

But having semi-retired him from competition, owner Emily Best, 21 from Ellenborough in Maryport is taking him to schools and homes as a therapy dog.

Roscoe became certified as a therapy dog in November and since then he has visited Cockermouth School twice for well being sessions.

Emily said: "He's worked with the kids and he's worked with the teachers" she said.

"He goes around the different classes and he is brilliant with them all."

Emily takes Roscoe to sessions with pupils that have special educational needs. She said: "When we went they were all in the hall and I didn't know who was scared of dogs. But he just stood next to each person until they were ready to touch him."

The sessions are part of Emily's full time business, Barking Mad Dog Walking Services where she also offers to feed and groom the public's beloved pets.