New pup will go on to help people living with sight loss
The charity Guide Dogs has announced that its first guide dog puppy of 2020 has been born. The male puppy remains unnamed as of yet, and is one of more than 1,200 new guide dog puppies expected to be born this year.
The yellow labradoodle puppy was born at 15.08pm on 2 January and is part of a litter of eight , all safely delivered at the home of a Guide Dogs volunteer in Hanbury, Warwickshire.
In roughly eight weeks, the puppies will be sent to the homes of other Guide Dogs volunteers, where they will grow and gain exposure to a variety of sights, sounds and environments in preparation for their future roles.
At 12-16 months old, the puppies will begin their official guide dog training and continue their journey to becoming fully qualified guide dogs.
Guide Dogs Brood supervisor, Tim Bloomfield, said: “Being a part of the journey of a guide dog is so rewarding. Knowing that these pups are coming into the world to make such a huge difference to the lives of people living with sight loss makes it an incredible experience to be a part of.
“There are many stages to ensuring a guide dog pup becomes a fully qualified, working guide dog and our supporters and volunteers are essential in making this happen.”
Image (c) Guide Dogs
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
