London Guide Dog Training School (Woodford Green) announces open day

The London Guide Dog Training School at Woodford Green (Findlay House, Manor Road, IG8 8ER) will provide a tail wagging welcome, when it opens its doors to the public on Saturday, 05 June, 11am-4pm.

There will be plenty of opportunities to ‘pooch-spot’ German Shepherds, Labradors and Retrievers as they prepare for their future careers as guide dogs.

Dozens of guide dog puppies will add to the extravaganza. Kennel staff and dog trainers will explain about the life-changing independence that guide dogs provide to blind and partially sighted people.

Those accepting the ‘blindfold challenge’ will experience what it’s like to put complete trust in a guide dog, when you can’t see anything around you.

The open day is designed to be a fun and interesting day for the whole family, with entertainment including bouncy castle, treasure hunt ‘Braille trail’, fancy dress competition and Tombola.

The Sticky Paw Café’ will provide a gooey way to feel what you’re eating; remembering that if you’re blind, you can’t see what is on your plate!

Entry is £1 per person, which will be invested in the charity’s services for blind and partially-sighted people.

Tim Howell, Guide Dogs’ Dog Supply Manager, said:  “London Guide Dog Training School is at the centre of the charity’s work throughout the South East.

“We have an excellent relationship with the local community, who support us in our training of puppies, dogs, and new guide dog partnerships.  We’re welcome in shops, businesses, and aboard public transport – these real world environments are crucial to the success of the training programme.

“The charity wanted to thank people for their support by opening our doors, allowing everyone to learn what goes on behind the scenes in training the next generation of guide dogs.”

For further information about Guide Dogs’ open day, or to learn more about the charity’s services and how you can get involved, contact Alison.springford@guidedogs.org.uk Tel: 07990 540251.