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Could you open your home and heart to a guide dog puppy, and help change a life?

Allison Ferguson, from Milngavie, East Dunbartonshire,  tells us about her role as a volunteer Puppy Raiser for  Guide Dogs charity.

“I love that while we are having fun with the pups we are making a big difference to a visually impaired person’s life.”

“I love getting to know a new pup each year and the different temperaments and really enjoyed learning more about dog training. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the other puppy raisers. They’re a really lovely bunch of people.”

“For me, it wasn’t as big a commitment as getting a dog as I was committing to having the pup for around a year.  There’s also volunteer Puppy Fosterers which means it’s not a problem to go on holiday.”

Guide Dogs covers expenses such as food and vet bills, and gives Puppy Raisers the opportunity to participate in their world-class training programme. Volunteers have the support of a dedicated volunteer manager, and out of hours phone line.

Allison said:

“If you love dogs and have time and energy it is the most rewarding and fun thing you could do. Lots of people worry about being upset when they move into training, but you’ll be so proud of them, just like a child going to university or college, and of yourself for getting them there.

“The best way to get over the loss is to take another pup and start again! Yes, they each take a bit of your heart with them, but they give so much more.”

The charity offers a range of volunteer opportunities including respite fostering, as well as supporting the local fundraising group and coordinating collection boxes.

Find out which opportunities are available where you live, or to start your application online: www.guidedogs.org.uk/volunteer

For more information,Email Emma 

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