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Service Dogs UK has announced a partnership with the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) to jointly host the UK Service Dogs Conference & Awards, a national event dedicated to celebrating the impact of service dog partnerships across the United Kingdom.
Under the shared theme “Dogs Making a Difference: In Partnership, Service and Beyond”, the 2026 Conference and Awards unites both charities to pay tribute to the full journey of service – from supporting veterans whose lives are transformed by assistance dogs, to safeguarding the welfare and legacy of animals who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.
“We are very excited to be working together with our friends at the NFRSA to bring about this year’s conference and awards. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about how this symbiotic relationship changes lives, and to celebrate exceptional dogs who have given extraordinary service.”
Garry Botterill, Founder, Service Dogs UK
The UK Service Dogs Conference & Awards will unite leading experts, researchers, charities, military and blue‑light organisations, and animal welfare groups to highlight the vital role dogs play in mental health, therapy, service and wellbeing across the country.
Delegates will take part in a full day of insight and discussion, hearing from sector leaders and thought‑provoking speakers, while contributing to the conversations shaping the future of service dog partnerships in the UK.
The 2026 programme will honour service dogs in all their forms – from assistance and therapy dogs to search and rescue teams, emergency service dogs, and the military working dogs who serve and protect. The event will also pay tribute to retired service animals, recognising the courage, dedication and enduring legacy they carry into retirement.
The event will conclude with an evening gala and Awards Ceremony, featuring the second year of the Medal of Honour Awards. These awards recognise the individuals, dogs and organisations whose work embodies partnership, service and impact.
“Serving as Head Judge last year was a humbling reminder of the extraordinary impact service dogs have across every part of society. At the NFRSA, our mission to ‘Protect Our Protectors’ ensures the dogs who keep us safe receive the comfortable, dignified retirement they deserve. Partnering with SDUK this year is a natural alignment of our shared values, and a powerful example of how charities are always stronger when we work together towards a common purpose.”
Countess Bathurst, Founder and Chair, the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals
The conference and awards will take place on 1st October 2026 at the Avisford Park Hotel in West Sussex. Find out more here.
Service Dogs UK is exhibiting at The Emergency Services Show 2026, taking place from 16-17 September at the NEC in Birmingham. You can find them on Stand CZ17. Register your interest to attend here.
