THE race is on to find the 'Braveheart' of 2007. Every month throughout 2007, Okeford Veterinary Centre has awarded a Braveheart certificate to an animal in their care. The award has gone to an animal that has not only been brave but displayed great patience and stoicism throughout its treatment at the surgery. Okeford vets are inviting their clients and other animal lovers to call into their surgeries at Okehampton and Chagford to read the monthly testimonials and vote for the animal they think should be named Braveheart of 2007. The winner will be announced in two weeks' time and will be presented with a personalised memento. Some of the animals in the running include Benson Bellman, a 7-year-old Doberman and Tilly, a 6- year-old domestic cat. Benson Bellman suffered from a disc problem in his spine coupled with a rare clotting disorder. He underwent a three-month recovery, where he was recumbent and unable to stand without help. After intensive physiotherapy and a great deal of TLC, Benson made a full recovery and is able to walk again. Tilly the cat had a problem with her balance and was also heavily pregnant. Due to her balance condition she was unable to give birth naturally and a caesarean had to be performed. She needed help to look after her kittens but with medication Tilly's balance improved and she, along with her kittens, was re-homed by the cat protection agency.
