VOLUNTEERS are wanted in Rugby to provide a loving home to a guide dog puppy for the first year of their life.
Sight loss charity Guide Dogs has launched an appeal to find ten homes in the Rugby area for guide dog pups, with the charity covering the cost of all the food, veterinary care and equipment required.
The charity’s volunteer ‘Puppy Raisers’ play a vital role in the early socialisation and education of guide dogs, teaching pups basic commands and helping them get used to the outside world.
At about seven weeks of age, puppies move to live with their volunteer Puppy Raisers, where they remain until they are around 12-16 months of age. They then head off to a training centre to begin their specialised training.
Claire Purr, a Puppy Development Advisor for Guide Dogs who covers Rugby, said: “This is a great opportunity for people in Rugby to raise a guide dog puppy at home, helping to prepare a pup for their future role supporting someone with sight loss.
“It’s a long-term volunteering role, as each pup will live with you in your home for at least a year.
“We’ll provide all the training required and the support you need, so you feel well equipped to care for your pup as they grow and develop.
“If you’re from Rugby and think you could give a loving home to a guide dog pup, please do get in touch.”
Volunteers must be aged over 18 and have suitable housing. Caring for a puppy is a full-time commitment, so volunteers must be able to give a guide dog pup the love and attention they deserve.
Visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/volunteering or contact Guide Dogs Volunteering Coordinator for Rugby Mike Hefferan at [email protected] for more information.
