Prince Harry told a young award winner who has an assistance dog that he has three "emotional support dogs " in a heartfelt video call.
Speaking to 13-year-old Isabelle Delaney, who scooped the Inspiration Young Person prize at the 2022 WellChild Awards, he said: "We all need a dog that keeps us calm".
Isabelle has a range of health conditions and is supported by her assistance dog, a Labradoodle called Hope, who, along with Isabelle's parents, joined the call.
Harry and Meghan had been due to attend the awards ceremony however, the royal couple were forced to pull out of going because of the Queen's death.
Instead the prince held a video call with those he had been due to meet to apologise for not being able to attend and to congratulate them on their awards.
Speaking to Isabelle about his dogs, he added: "I've got three in this house now, so we basically have five children.
"I've got a black Labrador called Pula, a rescue beagle called Guy, and we've got another rescue beagle called Mia.
"And between the three of them, they charge around chasing squirrels and causing all sorts of problems to us every single day. But they are also emotional support dogs, 100 per cent, when they're behaving.”
Meanwhile, elsewhere on the call, Harry gave a rare update on his children Archie, three, and one-year-old Lilibet.
He was speaking to four-year-old Henry Waines, who suffers from serious health problems, and his parents.
During the chat, Harry apologised to the youngster for not being able to present his award and the young boy told him "That's alright".
And Harry added: "You sound just like my son Archie really. The same little squeaky voice. I love it."
Henry then took the opportunity to ask the royal about his two young children Archie, three, and one-year-old Lilibet.
And Harry beamed as he spoke about the youngsters saying: "They are doing great.
"Archie is very, very busy and Lili is learning to use her voice, which is great!"
Meanwhile, in another part of the call, Harry talked to Evelyn Rodger, a children's hospice nurse whose role was funded by the Princess Diana memorial fund.
She told the prince: "I think your mum would be very proud of what that money has achieved. And I also think as a mum she'd be very proud of you, Harry."
And an emotional looking Harry replied: "That's very sweet, thank you."
Harry has been patron of WellChild, the national charity for seriously ill children and their families, since 2007 and despite stepping down as a working royal has maintained his links with the organisation.
WellChild chief executive, Matt James said: "Our remarkable winners and their families were delighted to have this additional chance to celebrate their achievements, particularly as this year's event ran under unique circumstances.
"The Duke recognised the immense challenges faced by children and young people who face serious ill health with positivity, resilience, and courage and the dedication of those around them, from siblings, professionals and volunteers who have gone above and beyond to help them through such challenging times."
