Meet Pip

Meet Pip

Cast your vote today!

Cast your vote for the next #NZTOPDOG

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Meet Pip

Meet Pip

Cast your vote today!

Cast your vote for the next #NZTOPDOG

Vote now Vote now

Meet Pip

Breed: Labrador

Barking from: Dunedin

What's up dog?

I have been a Type 1 Diabetic for many, many years. I have Hypoglycemic Unawareness. Resulting in unconsciousness. Imagine in life not knowing your blood glucose levels are dropping dangerously quickly and extremely low, when you get no warning symptoms at all. This puts your life in danger constantly and this can be on a daily basis at times. Having Assistance Dog Pip in my life has made a remarkable difference for the better in my life by keeping me safe and well. In the 7 years I have had Pip I haven't become unconscious or broken anymore bones from collapsing and literally falling into unconsciousness. Diabetic's emit a pheromone in our breath that humans can't smell, but trained animals can. This is where Pip will alert me - he knudges me, licks me, pushes or paws at me until I get the jellybeans or sweet juice carton on board. My confidence levels have improved greatly, no longer having to rely on family, friends or work mates having to check up on me continuously. I'm a working nurse at Te Whatu Ora Southern. Pip is the only trained assistant dog to be working in a hospital here within New Zealand. Although he is my Assistance Dog, the patients enjoy him being on the ward with me, being able to pat or play with him which he adores just as much as they do. The ward considers him a valuable member of staff. He soothes a patient when they have been given unfortunate news, sits with a suicidal person offering them comfort in giving them a snuggle and sits providing them with unconditional comfort. If only all hospitals introduced Animal Therapy on a daily basis.

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.

Vote now