ANIMAL lovers in Ringwood are being asked to help make a difference to blind or partially sighted people by taking care of a guide dog in training.

Guide Dogs is looking for puppy walkers in and around Ringwood and the New Forest.

Volunteer puppy walker Jacqui Richomme said: “My love of dogs combined with the opportunity to help someone else could not have made this more perfect.

“The first week, if I am honest, was exhausting. I’d forgotten things like sleepless nights while they settle in, feeding four times a day and the constant attention required, on my part, for the puppy's toilet training to be achieved.

“But I absolutely loved every minute and learnt quickly.”

Puppy walking is a volunteering role which prepares guide dog puppies for their working life by familiarising them with different environments including the home, towns and public transport.

Volunteers provide the full-time care and education of a puppy from seven weeks of age until they are between 12 and 14 months old.

They meet regularly with a supervisor where they look at the progress of the puppy. There are also requirements and procedures that need to be followed.

Jacqui added: “I regularly take them shopping with me in our local supermarkets.

Going out for lunch has become a more regular habit so that the pup learns how to behave in this sort of environment.

“We take ferry trips and give the pup the opportunity to go on a train ride and get familiar with the stations.

“I would encourage anyone who has the time and interest to become involved.

It is a very rewarding and fulfilling thing to do.

“I would advise them of the time and dedication that is required. This is no different to caring for a young child, everyday your time is filled with teaching and guiding.”

After completing their time with their puppy walkers, the puppies move on to a training school where they begin their formal guide dog training.

Guide Dogs has many different ways people can get involved from looking after a puppy in their own home for the first year, boarding training dogs, events management, fundraising and My Guides.

To find out more call 0845 372 7428 or email Hazel on hazel.dyson@guidedogs.org.

uk.

To apply to be a puppy walker go to guidedogs.org.uk/support us/volunteering/what-