Girl, 9, and her assistance dog shortlisted for award

Izzy and her mother say their lives are much happier with Jessie

A nine-year-old girl has been shortlisted for a national pet award for the progress she has made with her assistance dog.

Izzy, from Ferndown, Dorset, is autistic and has become a hit on social media, documenting her condition and her dog training, a black Labrador called Jessie.

She was nominated for the Animal Star Awards by an Instagram follower, becoming the youngest finalist in the assistance dog category.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Portsmouth on Sunday.

Jessie and Izzy have been working with the charity Helpful Hounds

Izzy's mum, Carla, said her daughter was much happier and calmer since the arrival of Jessie.

She said: "Izzy has complex needs, she is autistic, [and has] ADHD and pathological demand avoidance.

"When she does become overwhelmed, Jessie's there to comfort her.

"I couldn't be prouder of Izzy and Jessie. To be nominated is absolutely fantastic."

Jessie's training has been carried out with the charity Helpful Hounds.

Trainer Vicky Mansfield said: "The impact that Jessie's had on Izzy's life has helped Izzy flourish and going out has become more pleasurable for her."

Carla said, of all the provision offered to Izzy, Helpful Hounds continued to make the biggest difference to her life.