Judy said: ‘Ricochet is the first ever canine-assisted surf therapy and adaptive surfing Dog.’

Since 2009, Ricochet has worked with hundreds of children with special needs, people with disabilities, and wounded veterans.

She was rejected from being a service dog because of her love of chasing birds but is now an accomplished surfer and uses her skills to help people with mental and physical disabilities take up the hobby.

 Since 2009, Ricochet has worked with hundreds of children with special needs, people with disabilities, and wounded veterans

She was rejected from being a service dog because of her love of chasing birds but is now an accomplished surfer and uses her skills to help people

Ms Fridono founded Puppy Prodigies, a non-profit organisation in 2006. Along with Ricochet, the 61-year-old offers canine-assisted programs

She helps veterans through a pioneering and innovative therapy in which she offers emotional support

Miss Fridono said: ‘When we put her on the surfboard it was amazing she could stand up straight and had incredible skill’

Her owner says Ricochet makes people feel better about themselves and focus on the positive things in life.

Miss Fridono said: ‘When we put her on the surfboard it was amazing she could stand up straight and had incredible skill.

‘One day at the beach, she jumped on a surfboard with a 14-year-old boy who had spinal cord injuries.

‘It was that moment that her life purpose to surf with people who are disabled was realised.

‘She’s just such an inspiration to everyone – she’s got such a strong connection to people and we see such improvements in the people who she surfs with.’