VOLUNTEERS from Dorset charity Caring Canines have been honoured by the Prime Minister with a Big Society Award.

David Cameron praised members of the group for their work connecting dog-owners and their pets with care homes, hospitals, hospices, sheltered housing and special needs school.

The charity organises more than 100 visits in the county each week through their group of 131 volunteers.

It was established by dog lovers Sue Dennett and Julie Lankshear in 2006 after they were inspired by the positive impact they saw their pets have on other people.

David Cameron said: “The Caring Canines group is bringing a little light into the lives of those facing challenges such as serious illnesses and isolation. “This fantastic team of Bournemouth volunteers recognise the comfort and companionship pets can bring. I’m pleased to make them Big Society Award winners.”

Recently, the organisation’s TherapyWise programme has been extended to include the assisted learning unit at Bournemouth University, where five young people with additional needs are supported each week.

This year also marks the five-year anniversary of Caring Canine’s Be Bookwise programme, which sees children struggling with reading in five schools given a dog as a ‘book buddy’.

The initiative aims to help youngsters enjoy reading.

Founders Julie and Susan said: “We are enormously proud of what our members have achieved, and to have this high level of thanks and acknowledgment will mean the world to each one, past and present.”

The Big Society Awards were set up in November 2010 to acknowledge individuals and organisations across the UK that provide an outstanding contribution to the community, improve lives through innovation and new partnerships, and engage in social action.