It was all plane-sailing for Donegal’s guide dog puppies-in-training when they took their first steps onto an airplane last weekend.
Five puppies and their handlers took part in the unique training exercise on Sunday.
Puppies experienced airport security, queuing, boarding and finding their seats, all thanks to the collaboration between the Irish Guide Dogs Donegal Branch, Donegal Airport, and Emerald Airlines.
The airplane stayed on the tarmac, but the training season was hugely beneficial as it exposed the dogs to real-life situations they may encounter in their working life, from waiting for departure to a security pat down!
Photo by Ozgun Ozdemir (@oozzgguunn)
Photo by Ozgun Ozdemir (@oozzgguunn)
The passenger puppies were siblings Sally and Skipper and Donegal’s newest trainees, Bowie Becky and Betsie.
The dogs all took the journey in their stride thanks to their wonderful puppy raisers and volunteer co-ordinators Leslie Newberry and Ciara Boyle.
“Thank you so much to Donegal Airport and Emerald Airlines for facilitating this super training exercise,” said the branch.
A social media post from the airport and Emerald Airlines said they were delighted to host the Irish Guide Dogs Donegal Branch.
“We had a super morning with some adorable guide dog puppies,” they said.
Photo by Ozgun Ozdemir (@oozzgguunn)
Photo by Ozgun Ozdemir (@oozzgguunn)
Following their exciting morning at the airport, the Labradors and their handlers enjoyed a well-deserved rest and a delicious breakfast at Caisleán Óir Hotel.
Puppy raising is an important step in the journey of a potential guide dog. Puppies stay in the homes of volunteers learning the foundations of training until they reach up to 14 months old. Then it’s time for them to move into the National Training Centre where the hard work towards graduating as a Guide or Assistance Dog begins.
Photo by Ozgun Ozdemir (@oozzgguunn)
Photo by Ozgun Ozdemir (@oozzgguunn)
Photo by Ozgun Ozdemir (@oozzgguunn)
The Donegal Branch of Irish Guide Dogs is always seeking volunteers to support the charity’s work in Donegal, from fundraising volunteers to puppy raisers, to temporary boarders, there are loads of opportunities.
Find out about the different roles available: https://buff.ly/3zD1y9r or follow the Facebook page at Irish Guide Dogs Donegal Branch
