Our Business Development Director, Mandy, has adopted Finn, a Black Labrador, before he undergoes specialist training to become a guide dog.
Puppy Raisers play a vital role in the early socialisation and education of guide dogs. At about seven weeks of age, puppies like Finn start their early training, until between 12-16 months of age. Finn will then head off to a training centre to begin his specialised training.
Mandy and her family will care for, feed and train Finn, teaching him basic obedience commands, as well as allowing him to meet new people and experience different sounds and situations. This helps him prepare for the tasks he'll perform as a guide dog.
Being a Puppy Raiser is highly rewarding, challenging and fun, offering a chance to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and do something really amazing by helping to transform the life of an adult with disabilities.
He met the Northern Training Academy office staff this month. Finn took a shine to Jack (left), our Learner Support Advisor!
Make sure to revisit the Northern Training Academy website for updates on how Finn is getting on!
To find out more about the Puppy Raiser scheme, check out the Guide Dogs website.