The UK's first dog midwife who helped her pregnant owner through childbirth inside a maternity ward happened to take place in Buckinghamshire.

Amee Tomkin's assistance dog, Belle, is believed to be one of the first canines in the country to be allowed in a hospital labour ward.

The two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier accompanied the 33-year-old  through fertility treatment, as well as scans and midwife appointments throughout her pregnancy.

Bucks Free Press: Amee gave birth to Olly with Bella by her side in April (SWNS)Amee gave birth to Olly with Bella by her side in April (SWNS) (Image: SWNS)

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And the pooch was so well behaved that Milton Keynes University Hospital allowed her to support nervous Amee on the maternity ward before, where he son, Olly, was born via a cesarean

Amee, who has had the dog since 2021, helps the 33-year-old with her autism, anxiety and panic attacks.

The Milton Keynes resident, said: "Belle was waiting patiently in the hospital room when I went to theatre to have my baby.

"And when I was wheeled back, she was the first to meet Olly - I couldn't have done it without her.

"Belle can detect symptoms of a panic attack and does things like to help me find exits in crowded places if she senses I'm feeling anxious.

Bucks Free Press: Olly and Bella at Milton Keynes University Hospital (SWNS)Olly and Bella at Milton Keynes University Hospital (SWNS) (Image: SWNS)

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"She presses buttons on lifts and she even holds my debit card against the machine to pay for things when we’re shopping.

"Basically, without her, I’m too anxious to leave the house. I’d just stay indoors all day and every day.

"She came with me to all my appointments during my pregnancy and kept me calm - I couldn't have done it without her."