Adult guide dog in training looking for boarding home

23 September 2011

A dog-loving home is urgently needed in Nelson (Stoke/Monaco area preferred) to help care for and socialise one of tomorrow's guide dogs.

The Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind's (RNZFB) Guide Dog Services is looking for someone willing to board the dog for around six months, and help reinforce its learning during this training phase.

Training dogs board with individuals or families in local communities during the evening and on weekends, while undergoing formal training during week days.

Paula Gemmell, Puppy Development Coordinator at RNZFB Guide Dog Services, says volunteer boarders play an essential role in the guide dog development journey.

“Volunteer boarders provide our young dogs with love, care, and socialisation during their formal training to become guide dogs,” she says.

If you're interested in becoming a volunteer boarding home, you must:
• Have a fully-fenced and secure section.
• Have a car that a dog can travel in.

Guide Dog Services will provide you with ongoing support, including providing dog food, equipment and veterinary care (including worming and vaccinations), and will register the dog through your local council.

For more information, please call Guide Dog Services during business hours on 09 269 0400 or email gds@rnzfb.org.nz. Applications close on Monday 15 October.

ENDS

For more information please contact:
Gemma O’Sullivan, Communications Consultant on 09 355 6906 or comms@rnzfb.org.nz