For the first time in UK tennis history, "ball dogs" were let loose to run across tennis court and fetch balls for players during the annual Champion Tennis competition. /VCG Photo

The furry helpers were assistance dogs from a local animal charity and specially trained to lend a paw during the doubles match held at the Royal Albert Hall on Thursday. /VCG Photo

"Ball dogs" are not a novelty in tennis. Last year, six dogs took on the ball-fetching duty at Brazil Open in Sao Paulo. /VCG Photo