Soccer legend Roy Keane has some new signings in the form of Donegal pups Iain and Inish!
The adorable Labradors are helping Keano ask people to lend a helping hand, (or paw!) to puppy raising for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Roy, who has been a valued ambassador for the charity for many years, visited the guide dog Training Centre in Cork recently where he met little life-changing puppies in training.
The charity is in urgent need of volunteers to bring puppies through the first critical training steps on their journey to become life-changing Guide Dogs, Assistance Dogs or Community Dogs.
Iain and Inish are members of the second-ever litter of guide dog puppies born in Donegal. The six puppies were born in Kilcar to brood bitch Bella, who is cared for by volunteer Christine Byrne.
The ‘I’ litter were all moved outside Donegal for the next stage of their lives, as the amazing volunteers here in Donegal are at capacity.
The pups are now being trained in Dublin, Offaly, and Cork.
October 2024: Beautiful Bella and her six puppies
The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is seeking more volunteer puppy raisers, home socialisers and temporary boarders to help puppies in training.
No prior experience is necessary to become a Puppy Raiser, just a love for dogs and a desire to teach them. People from all backgrounds are welcome, including those with flexible work arrangements, retirees, families with children and pets. Support and training are provided, and all expenses (vet, food, equipment) are covered.
Temporary boarders support the long-term puppy raisers when they need to go away for a day or two, or a holiday. This could be anywhere from a weekend to 3 weeks at a time.
If 2025 is the year you want to do something hugely rewarding, find out more here: https://www.guidedogs.ie/ways-to…/volunteer/puppy-raising
If you have any questions about puppy raising/boarding, just message the Facebook page: Irish Guide Dogs Donegal Branch
