Woman says assistance dog 'changed her life'

A woman living with a rare neurological condition has found "new independence", through an assistance dog.

In 2002, Samantha from Peterborough was diagnosed with dystonia - a progressive condition causing painful muscle contractions and severe physical disability.

The former nursery nurse was told "there's no cure" and that it would "get worse over time". She has since lost the use of her hands, struggles to walk and is unable to stand.

In 2015, the 49-year-old took in an assistance dog, called Bugsy, who offered her practical help including picking up dropped items and opening doors, which she described as "life-changing".

It gave her "the freedom to truly live again", she added.

Bugsy was trained and provided by Canine Partners.

The national charity matches people with a variety of physical disabilities with expertly trained assistance dogs.

Previously, as her condition progressed, Samantha relied heavily on her mum for care but she died suddenly in 2007.

Samantha said it had an impact on her confidence and ability to navigate life.

"I was really struggling. Simple things were exhausting and frustrating. I couldn't even pick things up if I dropped them," she said.

After more than a decade together, Bugsy retired in 2025, remaining with Samantha as a much-loved companion.

She has since been partnered with Hank, a black labradoodle.

"I was over the moon. Nothing could replace Bugsy, but I knew Hank would change my life too," Samantha said.

"Without Hank, I would be totally reliant on another person and facing the possibility of life in a care home."

Samantha has now able to "give back to the community", by visiting local nursing homes with her dog to bring comfort and companionship to residents.

"We go out every day together – to the park, on long walks or just out and about in the community," she said.

"They're not just assistance dogs, they're my family. Thanks to them, I've got my independence back and the freedom to truly live again."

Samantha and Hank are now the face of the charity and hope to highlight the work Canine Partners do.

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