A DOG walking business based in Basingstoke is celebrating after being highly commended at an awards ceremony.

Waterlily Walkies received the praise in the Dog Walker of the Year award handed out by the Animal Star Awards.

This organisation is dedicated to promoting animal welfare and applauding those who go above and beyond for the animals in their care.

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Charli SaxbyCharli Saxby (Image: Charli Saxby)

Charli Saxby, owner of Waterlily Walkies, said: "I started my business barely two years ago, in September 2022 after leaving my full-time job, and since then I have walked dozens of wonderful dogs in the local community, offering my services not only for reactive or nervous dogs but XL bullies too.

"It has been an honour and a joy to be given the trust of the owners to take care of these animals and it brings be so much fulfilment and excitement for the future working with the dogs that so many others would turn away."

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She added: "I am so happy that people can now see how hard I have worked to get my business to where it is now."

The Animal Star Awards were created in 2016 to give recognition to animals and people for the extraordinary things that they do for one another.

Since they began, the awards have given recognition to more than 150 people, pet related businesses, animal charities and rescue centres.

The awards said they aim to help rescue centres gain exposure so they can rehome more animals in their care.