Every day, profoundly deaf Kerry Halpin rushes home from school to be with Fox, her pet Samoyed.

Without each other, life would be a struggle.

But the pair have formed a partnership strong enough to triumph over daily obstacles, both physically and emotionally.

When they are out walking, Kerry steers 18-month-old Fox around potential hazards while Fox, who can detect the sound of approaching cars, guides Kerry across the road.

At night, the dog sleeps under Kerry's bed and when her mum Fiona, 36, wants to wake her up, she calls on Fox to hassle her until she rouses.

The incredible relationship began 15 months ago, shortly after Kerry, of London Road, Crowborough, had completed gruelling treatment for life-threatening cancer.

Fox was a gift from the Last Chance animal rescue centre at Edenbridge, where Kerry had helped as a volunteer.

And Kerry's mum, who runs her own animal sanctuary at the family home, says the bond was formed the moment they met.

Fiona said: "It really is amazing. I have never seen a bond so strong between a dog and a child. I am sure they see a need in each other. They are inseparable."

In August, 1995, doctors discovered a tumour close to one of Kerry's kidneys. They warned her chances of survival were slim.

But after operations and chemotherapy, Kerry pulled through. But as a result, she missed out on school life and has found it hard to make friends.

Her mum said: "She really does not have many friends from school. She missed too much time and now does not really fit in there.

"But amazingly, Fox gives Kerry so much emotional support."

Kerry, who is hoping Fox will scoop an award in this year's WAG - Willing and Giving - awards organised by pet insurance company Petplan, says: "Fox is my best friend."

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