“It makes me proud to know that we are a small part of the dogs’ journey to becoming a fully trained guide or assistance dog. Knowing they will go on to really change the life of someone with visual impairment or Autism is pretty incredible.”
Fiona and her family first got involved with volunteering with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in 2021 and have been temporary boarders for about 10 different dogs since.
“Our whole family gets so excited when they hear we are having a 4 legged visitor – our own dogs are equally enthusiastic to have a new playmate! We have a pretty busy house but I think that helps the guide dog pups with socialisation as they get used to lots of people, other animals, noise, and coming and going in the car with us to matches, beaches, shops, school pick-ups, or whatever we happen to be doing. It is also mutually beneficial for our family as not only do we get lots of doggie cuddles, but the children learn the importance of the role of guide dogs and the importance of volunteering and spreading awareness locally.
“The dogs we have had all have their own personalities and some have taken a little longer to settle in their new environment but they soon feel right at home. It is lovely when we get to temporary board the same dog on multiple different occasions as they remember they have been before and settle in instantly. It is also really interesting to learn about dog behaviour – the pups are so clever and learn so quickly. It really is amazing to see first-hand. The dogs wear their distinctive ‘puppy in training’ vest when we take them for walks so people often stop for a chat and are keen to learn about them. I love this as it helps spread interest and awareness of the role of volunteers and the importance of guide dogs for their owners, and is also a great way to get to meet people.
“The volunteer group is also such a fantastic bunch of people. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. There is always great support there and very knowledgeable people on hand locally if you need them. I know some people I have spoken to who would consider temporary boarding are worried about the responsibility, but honestly it is such a supportive group and the dogs are so good that we have never had anything to worry about and I know I have back up if ever I need it. It can be sad to say goodbye at the end of the stay, but we often get to have the same dog back the next time the puppy raiser needs a break, and we can keep updated on the dog’s progress on the WhatsApp volunteer group.
“It makes me proud to know that we are a small part of the dogs’ journey to becoming a fully trained guide or assistance dog. Knowing they will go on to really change the life of someone with visual impairment or Autism is pretty incredible. So it is definitely worth it, I would recommend temporary boarding to everyone and would encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch for more information.”
This National Volunteering Week, we’re celebrating the diversity of volunteers who make Ireland what it is. No matter your age, race, abilities, or status, we honor your place in the community and the volunteering that you, uniquely, do.
Thank you to Fiona for sharing her story. Please email [email protected] if you’d like to share yours!
