A DOG-LOVER is in the final for a national award after setting up a Valleys animal sanctuary.

Kirsty Thomas, 29, has been shortlisted for a Dogs’ Best Friend Award at the Dogs Trust Honours for her work with Four Paws Animal Rescue.

Ms Thomas started the Abercarn sanctuary in 2004 after seeing numerous healthy dogs being put down as she trained to become a veterinary nurse.

The sanctuary now has 30 volunteers working with her and helped re-home 533 dogs last year.

She will go up against four other nominees at the awards in London on June 1.

Miss Thomas said: “I am so honoured and completely shocked to be nominated by our volunteers – it is this network of dedicated and passionate people who have helped Four Paws become so successful.”