As a beloved space ranger superhero gears up for a return to the big screen, Guide Dogs is introducing Buzz, a guide dog puppy with star potential, whose journey could one day help someone with sight loss go beyond what they once thought possible.
Buzz is pictured exploring a familiar childlike world of cloud-print walls, colourful wooden blocks and a hand-drawn cardboard play town, all inspired by the imaginative playroom scenes and make-believe adventures of the iconic character who shares his name.
Buzz, one of three new recruits now available to sponsor, as part of Guide Dogs’ Sponsor A Puppy, is already showing early signs of the qualities that could one day help him transform lives - from curiosity and courage to a growing sense of loyalty.
Our new survey has revealed that over four in five guide dog owners (96%) agree their guide dog has given them the confidence to push themselves further. As a result of the boosted confidence, the majority have travelled independently (95%), taken on a challenge they never thought they could do (57%), and 44% have tried something outside of their comfort zone.
The survey also found that nearly a third (30%) have started a new hobby, 26% have completed a major fitness challenge, and 21% have pursued educational opportunities further away from home.
Top 10 ways guide dogs help owners go above and beyond:
Travel independently: 95%
Socialise more: 85%
Go shopping alone: 85%
Explore local area: 80%
Attend medical appointments independently: 76%
Visit friends/family more: 74%
Take on a challenge I never thought I could do: 57%
Try something outside comfort zone: 44%
Start a new job/training: 36%
Start a new hobby: 30%
For guide dog owner Oliver, that bond has meant everything. After a motorbike accident left him with a traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, hearing loss and very limited sight, his guide dog Walter has been truly transformative, helping him rebuild his confidence and opening up a world of independence. “Walter isn’t just my guide, he’s my left eye, my best friend and my freedom,” says Oliver. “I’ll always be grateful for the way he has enhanced my life.”
While Buzz may already look like the hero of his own playroom adventure, his journey is only just beginning. Through Sponsor a Puppy, people can help support puppies like him from their earliest days through to becoming fully trained guide dogs.
With the right training and support, Buzz could one day become part of a life-changing partnership, helping someone with sight loss live with greater independence while offering the companionship, trust and emotional support to take on everyday life and new experiences.
Buzz is joined by Sunny and Stanley in the new trio of puppies now available to sponsor. For less than £2 a week, you can support your chosen puppy on their journey to becoming a life-changing guide dog.
By sponsoring a puppy, you’ll help provide the training, care and support they need to thrive, while following their progress along the way. With regular ‘Pupdates’ and photos, you can watch them grow and see how your support helps shape a future, transformative partnership for someone with sight loss.
Steph Potter, Puppy Sponsorship Manager at Guide Dogs, said: “Buzz is already bringing plenty of character to the role, and is at the start of an exciting adventure that will hopefully one day see him become a true life changer.
“Guide dogs open up the world for people with sight loss, giving infinite possibilities. By Sponsoring a Puppy, people can become part of a story they are proud to share, providing guide dog puppies like Buzz all the care and training they need to succeed.”
To find out more about Buzz and the newest Sponsor a Puppy pups, visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/puppy
