Give dogs a lead role

WHAT can you do with a fiver? Buy two cups of coffee? A few tins of dog food? Two-and-a-half lottery tickets or part of a fish supper? What if I told you that fiver could help transform lives? Last week, I introduced Canine Partners, a registered charity, active in Scotland, which trains dogs to help people with disabilities.

They might pick up something they have dropped, fetch the phone when it rings or assist in removing clothes and place them on a chair. And, of course, they provide companionship.

The organisation is aptly named, as amazing dogs and owners really do form partnerships that the canines thoroughly enjoy and are absolutely crucial to the people.

But, as you might expect, even with the help of volunteers, all this comes at a cost. First there is a puppy to buy. Then there is equipment, food, toys, leads, collars, insurance and vet bills. Heh!

You probably own a dog, so you know what I am talking about. Add in puppy classes and the first year cost is around £5000. That has doubled by the time advanced training has been completed. Then each individual owner has to be instructed on how to train, work with and and care for their assistance dog, which requires a two week residential course. Around £20,000 is needed to create a full canine partnership. With 17 people on the waiting list in Scotland…

So. Back to that fiver. Canine Partners are holding a Bramble Ramble fun day at Pollokshaws Burgh Hall, Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, opposite the entrance to Pollok Country Park, on September 2 from 12-3.30pm. Online entry is only £5 (or £6 on the day with dogs and kids free). There will be craft stalls, a pop up cafe, raffle (win a limited edition Abbey Vet Group Jacket or £500!) tombola, loads of kids’ activities and, of course, a sponsored walk.

Even if you can’t make it, I would urge you to donate and you can do so easily on the website www.caninepartners.org.uk. (And please don’t feel restricted to just chipping in £5!)

Businesses can also help financially or by providing services and Canine Partners always need Volunteer Puppy Parents to care for and train puppies and Foster Carers, who look after puppies when Parents are on holiday.

You can also phone 0845 4811915 or 07500 776179.