Meet Odin
Breed: Labrador
Barking from: Hamilton
What's up dog?
Odin has taken over as my assistance dog from Sindri and has made even more of a difference in my life. He had naturally been able to detect my epilepsy and dysautonomia, which means I have been able to stay the night away from home for the first time in almost a decade and I have been able to get to my final semester at uni with his help because I now have warning to when I'm about to over do it. I can now go to stores by myself without worrying that I might have an episode without my partner or parents with me. So many times he's alerted to me about to faint so I have enough time to get on the floor so I don't hit my head on corners of things, or he will come sit next to me while I have seizures so he's ready to lie across me once they are over to help me come to again. While the emotional support he gives me isn't an assistance dog task, it adds some much to our working relationship because I know he has my back through my worst moments and will always love me unconditionally even when me health means I can't take him on fun adventures. He's my Little Pig, he will lie across me to help me regulate myself and when I pet him while he does it he oinks like a pig because he know it makes me laugh. I don't think he'll ever be able to wag his tail without his entire body wiggling too despite my dads best efforts to teach him how to be a normal dog. He does everything with his entire heart which is why I can tell he loves his job so much, which is why I love his name, he really does have the Heart of the Allfather, and why I have a huge tattoo dedicated to him and Sindri. I never expected I would get to reach my 23rd birthday tomorrow but thanks to Odin (and Sindri) I get to celebrate being independent for the first time in my life, and it was meant to be because it's Odin's birthday the dat after mine.
2025 NZ People's Choice Award
We believe no dog should be left behind.
Every dog entered into the competition is automatically in the running for the 2025 People’s Choice Award — and the winner will be decided by you, the public.
This year, we’re giving the aroha back to our communities.
Each year, our campaign is supported by a number of incredible charities across Aotearoa that work tirelessly to improve the lives of dogs and people alike. In 2025, we’re shining a spotlight on these organisations and the vital mahi they do.
As part of the voting process, every voter will have the chance to donate to our amazing mental health or dog-focused charities.
It’s your vote, your voice, and your opportunity to make a difference.
