Kirsty Meinhardt

Visually impaired youngster Kirsty Meinhardt, from Congleton, may not be teacher’s pet, but her four-legged companion comes close!

Not only has guide dog Websta transformed the 15-year old’s independence; when off duty, his cute face and eagerness for attention helps keep teachers relaxed, as he sits in the staffroom waiting for her lessons to finish.

The Labrador-cross-Retriever has transformed Kirsty’s confidence and independence. Kirsty has tunnel vision, meaning she can only see straight ahead. Until trained with Websta last year, the teenager needed assistance wherever she went. Now Kirsty has the freedom to get out and about; accompanied by her loyal guide dog.

Blackpool and Manchester are no longer beyond bounds. With increased confidence, the previously shy teenager is often seen on shopping trips, surrounded by friends, Websta striding by her side.

Back at Eaton Bank School, the young guide dog owner is studying for her exams, hoping to qualify for college; training for a career in childcare.

Kirsty says: “Websta’s transformed my life. He accompanies me wherever I want to go, which means I can now socialise, make the most of school and plan for my future.

“He either sits patiently by my side in class, or if he’s waiting in the staffroom, he’ll ‘chill-out’ the teachers so much, we know we’ll get it easy from them later in the day! Guide dogs are great companions, as well as means of mobility.”

Of course, dogs are dogs, and Websta has a mischievous side. He loves playing with the mail, so it’s always a race to the letterbox in the morning. And if Kirsty’s not giving him enough attention, a little headbutt by the cute canine ensures he quickly gets his own way.

“He even smiles at me, lifting his upper lip,” jokes Kirsty. “Not every dog, let alone a guide dog, can do that.

“He’s my companion, regardless of if he’s on or off duty. And best mates with the teachers too. Websta is a wonder dog, opening up opportunities I could only dream of a year ago.”