Meet Burt

Breed: Rotorua

Barking from: Pet Therapy

Job Title: Lab Hunterway Cross

What's up dog?

Burt visits a retirement village ever week, saying hello to the residents. Some have alzimers/dementia and don't remember us ever visiting but still get a thrill out of their weekly pats. Burt also triggers a lot of stories, weather it being about hunterway dogs they had growing up on farms, showing dogs at breed shows, even stories about Burt Munro (who Burt's named after). There are some who can physically give Burt pats, and others who Burt sits on a chair for so they can give him a scratch. Some people I have never heard speak before until they pat Burt. One lady gets quite chatty in Te Reo every time we see her!!

2025 NZ Top Dog with a Job Award

Judging and criteria

Purpose

This award recognises a working dog that goes above and beyond to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Whether supporting people or fellow animals, this dog’s daily efforts help improve wellbeing, provide support, or create meaningful change in their community.

Reach

Does your dog make a difference in the life of one individual, or do they support an entire group, workplace, or community? Tell us who they help and how far their support reaches.

Impact

What kind of impact does your dog have in their role? Share how they’ve enhanced wellbeing, supported mental health, or improved the lives of those around them