I've had a bit of a weepy morning, getting emotional over some very powerful pet stories. I always knew that pets could be the most amazing source of comfort and love. In the past I've experienced the wonderful companionship of a dog and the brilliant cheering effect of a couple of guinea pigs, a pair of canaries, a brace of tortoises and a tank full of fish (my mother was very patient). I began to understand a bit better how incredible the support of a pet can be when my grandfather died, and my mother's elderly cat shadowed my grandmother through the early, painfully difficult days until they became the best of friends.

So while the heartwarming stories of Jess, Ben and Susie that I describe on our Blogger blog were of no surprise to me, they still thoroughly touched my heart. To hear of a dog pulling someone back from the desperation of self-harm and suicide attempts is to fully understand the phenomenal power of the love these beautiful creatures have to offer.

It is thanks to the love and support of Shadow that Jess has launched her charity auction on eBay, offering a helicopter flight with all proceeds going to Dogs Trust (which of course you've all bid on, right?!).