A rescue Staffie has been awarded a Blue Peter badge for his work helping children – and one of the TV show’s presenters – to overcome their fears of dogs.
Six-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier Bonzai was rescued by RSPCA officers in January 2018. He was originally scared of other dogs himself, but behavioural sessions with staff helped him to overcome his fears.
His new owner Emma continued his training and, realising how good natured he was, eventually joined a group to help people overcome their fear of dogs.
Emma and Bonzai were asked to join a session with the Blue Peter film crew looking at helping people to overcome a fear of dogs, including the show’s presenter Mwaka Mudena. At the end Bonzai received his very own Blue Peter badge for helping out.
The show was aired on September 17. Emma said: “Bonzai was amazing. He’s made us so proud and is proof that no dog should be judged by their breed or by one incident. We couldn’t have picked a better furbaby and we love him to pieces.”
