This year’s winner, as everyone knows, is a scintillating Scottie named Sadie. But Sadie’s not the only dog star in Westminster’s firmament – and there’s more to Westminster winners than just style and looks.

Crypton loves any individual or organization that combines good looks and good works, so we’d like to “paws” to appreciate the fact that more and more dogs around the country – including many Westminster champions as well as shelter-adopted mutts – are volunteering their time as certified therapy animals, spreading cheer at hospitals and raising the spirits of young and old alike.

David Frei, known to millions as the dapper co-host of the USA Network’s Westminster broadcast, is a longtime advocate of animal assisted therapy. His tireless efforts to promote his charitable pet project, Angel on a Leash, are responsible for raising the national profile of therapy dogs and inspiring so many Americans to get their dogs certified.

David doesn’t just talk the talk – he dog-walks the walk. His own three dogs are all certified to do the important work of visiting hospital patients, applying the healing power of paws wherever they go. Here’s the youngest member of the Frei family, a gorgeous Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Angel, taking a break between hospital visits on her Crypton bed, which we think coordinates beautifully with her lovely red hair!

Sweet dreams, Angel – bless you and all your fellow therapy dogs for the wonderful work you do. You are truly Angels on Leashes. 

Posted by Julia Szabo.