Tributes have been paid to a beloved assistance dog who raised tens of thousands for charity following his death this week.

Scott, along with his owner Stephen Pugh, raised more than £26,000 for Dogs for Good over seven years of fundraising in Andover. Scott was also nominated for his work in 2015, being Highly Commended for his service in the Pride of Andover Awards 2015.

Following his retirement from the front line in 2019, he has been living out his retirement with the Lanham family, as well as his best friend, Jake the Labrador. He passed away recently at the age of 12.

Scott came to live with Stephen back in 2012, assisting him with his visual impairment and emotional support. This included helping him through the death of his wife, mother and brother-in-law.

“He’ll just come to you and sit his head on your lap and give you a big lick, lick the tears away and tell you he’s there for anything,” said Stephen.

Together, the duo were a regular sight across town, raising money to support the charity Dogs for Good, which train dogs for a variety of purposes, including supporting those with disabilities, improving wellbeing and supporting children with autism.

The work was recognised with a commendation at the Pride of Andover Awards in 2015, where he won the service award.

Over seven years, Scott and Stephen raised £26,179 for the charity, before Scott finally decided to put his paws up and rest at the ripe old age of 10, following a last day’s fundraising in the now closed Sainsbury’s on Bridge Street.

In retirement, he was rehomed with the Lanham family, where he has been enjoying the past couple of years. Sadly, he passed away in the past week, with tributes paid towards the dog that they ‘miss so much’.

To learn more about Dogs for Good, and make a donation towards it, you can click here.