A canine that wears a dog harness to help his owner get around has been described a lifesaver.

Injured serviceman Clay Rankin told the Gazette-Mail Archie has helped him keep his mobility.

The animal recently won Dog of the Year from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Mr Rankin has relied on his black Labrador since sustaining spinal and head injuries while on tour in Iraq.

He commended his four-legged companion stating "the only thing he cares about is helping me".

The news source reported Mr Rankin’s eyes welled-up with tears as he remarked: "How do you say thank you to somebody that never thinks of himself and only what you need? And all he asks in return is a little bit of love."

Archie is not the first dog harness-wearing canine to hit the headlines in recent times.

Blind Eugene Kelly told the Fermanagh Herald his animal Logan ensures he can get around town safely.