Speaker Meeting, 6.15 for 6.30pm
Mon, Nov 2nd 2026 at 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Speaker: Linda Buckland, Hearing Dogs
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Picture courtesy Swindon Advertiser
Gio, a black Cockapoo partnered with Linda Buckland from Purton, was recognised for his exceptional service in providing vital support for Linda’s hearing loss, as well as life-changing companionship.
The Field Top Dog Awards are an annual competition hosted by The Field magazine, that celebrate outstanding dogs and recognize their partnership with humans in areas like assistance, search and rescue, and other working roles.
The ‘Best Assistance Dog’ category celebrates assistance dogs who demonstrate extraordinary skill, loyalty and impact. The award was open to the public vote, with Gio awarded over half the total votes in the category. The 2025 Top Dog Awards saw winners honoured at the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials with a champagne lunch and a VIP viewing of the International Horse Trials.
Linda, who was partnered with Gio in November 2024 after her first hearing dog Fidget retired, described Gio as “clever, adorable and a happy little soul”: “He’s so eager to please, alerting me to sounds I can’t hear and keeping me safe. He’s a wonderful companion – not only for me but also for Fidget and my husband David.”
Gio easily adapted to living with Fidget in Linda and David’s home and the family say that they can no longer imagine life without him.
Linda said: “I have been a much more confident person since having a hearing dog and am able to enjoy life to the full with David, who doesn’t have to worry about me being out and about on my own. Gio is absolutely brilliant; a remarkable dog.”
Julie Phelps, Linda’s Partnership Advisor at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of Gio and the incredible bond he shares with Linda. The award not only highlights his exceptional contribution but also raises awareness of the vital role hearing dogs play in the lives of people with deafness and hearing loss.”
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