Gemma Atkinson has credited her dogs with providing her with "love and emotional support" when she felt "low" during the first coronavirus lockdown.
Gemma Atkinson with Norman and Ollie for PURINA BETA
The former 'Emmerdale' actress has teamed up with dog food brand PURINA BETA to find a deserving dog to be featured on a new limited-edition pack, and she is particularly pleased to have her pet pooches, Norman and Ollie, in her life because she admitted lockdown was "made easier" thanks to her adorable four-legged friends.
She said: "Lockdown has been tough for everyone - for me it was made easier by my dogs Norman and Ollie, who provided love and emotional support when I felt low and who kept me fit and active through our daily walks.
"We tried to get out as a family every day - spending time outdoors with Gorka, Mia and the dogs became the part of the day I looked forward to most, and that hasn’t changed, I still value that time so much."
Former 'Hollyoaks' star Gemma - who has 15-month-old daughter Mia with her partner Gorka Marquez - also admitted dogs have previously given some of her pals "a focus and a purpose" during tough times.
She added: "I’ve got friends and family who say the same - for some, their dogs gave them a focus and a purpose during the difficult times, while for others their dogs were their only company.
"That’s why I’m delighted to be working with PURINA BETA to find dogs who deserve to be celebrated."
As part of the campaign, PURINA BETA is asking the nation to share stories of how their dogs have helped them through tough times since lockdown began - such as providing emotional strength, physical support or everyday joy.
Natalie Gulland, Purina Natural Brand Manager, explained: "We are super excited to announce the launch of the #BetaRealDogs campaign with Gemma Atkinson as our 'Real Woman' ambassador who is helping us search for our next “Real Dog” to feature on a limited edition pack.
"Dogs are a constant source of happiness and relief - especially during tough times, and we want to celebrate those that have made a real difference this year.
"At PURINA BETA we are all about celebrating dogs being themselves and doing what they naturally love - whether that’s running, jumping and chasing, or providing love and support to their families."
To nominate a dog, simply post a photo of your canine on Instagram alongside a grid caption explaining how they supported you in lockdown and why they deserve to win using the campaign hashtag #BetaRealDogs.
The winning dog will take part in a photoshoot to feature on a limited-edition PURINA BETA pack, and will also receive a year’s supply of PURINA BETA dog food.
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