Finding our new furry friend
At just 7 years of age, our Assistance Dog Lobo passed away in March. Sadly he had a ruptured spleen and by the time we knew he was sick, it was too late to save him.
Our daughter Georgie, now aged 11, has autism and Global Developmental Delay. She had been supported by Lobo since she was five years old. Initially tethered together, she had grown in confidence with his support and, at the end, was able to lead him (with adult supervision) on walks and in public places.
His death has been a huge loss to our whole family but most of all for Georgie.
We made the decision to enquire about a new dog and, following a visit from Assistance Dogs NZ Trust in mid-June, we have been matched with a new Assistance Dog called Willow who is now undergoing final training for Georgie. We have committed to fundraising for her, and for the whole Assistance Dogs NZ programme.
With your support, we can help Georgie increase her independence and confidence, and give her a new companion to help keep her safe in public as well as lend emotional support.
There will be some fundraising events coming up, such as a French Film night on 28th August and a Bingo night on 11th September. We also hope to feature in the Fresh Choice till collection boxes again later in the year. The last collection in June raised $83.30 - a great start to our Givealittle campaign.
If you would like to make a donation towards Willow’s training, visit www.givealittle.co.nz and type ‘Georgie’ in the search bar. All funds go directly to Assistance Dogs NZ Trust so you can be confident it will go directly to the organisation that helps so many families with special needs children.
We’d love for you to follow us on our journey on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/georgieand We
post updates on our activities including fundraisers and we’ll share photos and news on how Willow settles in with us.