The Grove WI, which met on Thursday 18th September at Hallcroft Community Centre, enjoyed an engaging presentation from husband-and-wife guide dog trainers Carol and Tony, volunteers for the UK charity Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. They brought along their current trainees – two beautiful golden retriever puppies named Seamus and Quiver. To date, Carol and Tony have raised and trained 24 guide dog puppies over a period of 25 years.
The puppies, bred by the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, arrive at around seven to eight weeks old and remain with the trainers for up to 18 months. During this time, they receive basic dog training and learn to navigate the outside world with all its sounds and distractions. After this stage, the dogs move on to training school, where they acquire the specialist skills needed to become effective and safe companions for their future blind or partially sighted owners.
Not all dogs bred by the Association go on to become guide dogs. Some are more suited to work as ‘buddy dogs’ for people with autism, while others are retained as breeding dogs to ensure the continuation of the best lines with the necessary temperament and abilities.
Carol and Tony entertained members with many anecdotes from their years as trainers, including stories about their time filming for the Paul O’Grady show. Tony admitted that after spending so much time bonding with each puppy, handing them over to their new owners is often a tearful experience.The talk was very well received, with plenty of interaction and questions from members.
The October meeting featured the Grove WI AGM, followed by a lively session of indoor curling. The next meeting, in November, will be a craft afternoon led by regular crafters Pamela and Bruce, where members will have the opportunity to create their own handmade items.
Grove WI always welcomes visitors and new members. Meetings take place on the third Thursday afternoon of each month at Hallcroft Community Centre, starting at 2.00pm. For further details, contact Barbara Henderson on 01777 248736 or email hbarbara107@gmail.com