Dogs for the Disable: Giles

Sonya J. Miller-Smith

In 2005 the staff of the practice decided that we wanted to support the charity 'Dogs for the Disabled' by supporting dogs through their long training before coming life long companions and helpers for disabled people. A young Labrador, Giles, was the first dog that was assigned to the practice.

'Dogs for the Disabled' are a registered charity that produces unique partnerships between dogs and disabled people. The dogs become helper-dogs, similar to guide-dogs for the blind, or hearing-dogs for the deaf, but where the focus is more on doing physical tasks that a disabled person would find difficult. This may include running for the phone, posting a letter or even emptying the washing machine!

We eagily awaited updates on Giles' progress through his training, and was always pleased to here that, despite some early puppyish behaviour, he was turning into a perfect helper dog. In September 2005 he completed his training, passing with flying colours. He was partnered with a lady called Sandra and has gone to live with her in Dorset.

Sandra was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 8 years ago, at the age of 39, and has been in a wheelchair permanently for the past 4 years. Sandra said, "I was married to an incredibly supportive husband who was also a vicar and my full time carer. Sadly he was killed last year in a motorcycle accident and my three grown up children suggested I apply to Dogs for the Disabled, because we have always had our own dogs. Our German Shepherd and Staffie both died a few months before my husband, Jim, did. They were concerned that with all three of them going on to lead their own lives I would be very much alone. I wrote to Dogs for the Disabled and they replied saying I was on the waiting list. That was in June 2004. After moving house, I had a phone call from Jo at Dogs for the Disabled, asking if she could come and assess me for a dog."

"Jo came out to visit me with Giles and I was then apparently labeled a priority! Then, on my birthday, I had a phone call from Jo saying the match that had been planned for Giles hadn't worked out, and would I like to have him! Well, you can imagine my delight - it was the best birthday present in the world!"

"Giles and I then began our partnership. It has been one of learning and patience on both sides, but most of all lots of fun! He helps me in lots of ways, but I think the way he immediately picks up ANYTHING I drop is by far the most useful, as bending down in my wheelchair is not easy as my balance is so bad".

Giles is very eager to please and obviously loves his games. He has a green rubber toy that he adores, that is extra special because it floats! As you can imagine he loves swimming and frequently makes friends in the river. The last friend was a giant schnauzer who he shared his toy with. He seems to have a wonderful sense of humour and delights in making me laugh!"

We are eager to involve everyone we can in supporting our cause, so throughout the coming year look out for our various fund-raising events, such as a sponsored dog walk and open day.

For more information on Dogs for the Disabled please go to their website.