Velvet's story
Velvet, a black Labrador, had a long and wonderful career as a guide dog and still had bundles of energy after she retired. Velvet's new owners have enjoyed welcoming her into their family and showing her new experiences, such as swimming in the sea!
Guide Dog Owner's story
"It was with great reluctance that we decided it would be in Velvet's best interests to be rehomed and especially as it was thought she would not take to kindly to my new working guide dog.
"I was fully informed as to where her new placement would be and the surrounding environment of her new home on Dartmoor.
"On the day of transition it was a long journey and I was telephoned several times to say everything was going well. Velvet was more than happy to meet her new owner as she received lots of attention. I'm very grateful to Velvet's new owner as we have regularly receive photos and updates on her wellbeing. I can only thank Guide Dogs for finding Velvet such a lovely new home which helped us to realise we made the right decision."
It’s a joy to watch Velvet still playing and snuffling on walks, and she has learnt that it is fun to swim in the sea. She has brought my family and myself much joy and many smiles!
Rehomer's story
"Velvet came to me just after retiring from guiding. She was fit, confident, very affectionate and did not look her age. Clearly she had been well cared for and much loved. My very special working Collie, Jack, had developed a heart condition and I wanted a buddy for him in his retirement. Velvet and Jack greeted each other in a very friendly way playing as soon as they met. They were gentle and become companions immediately.
"Velvet was at home on the moor and fitted in on the farm without problems. Her owner has kept in touch which is lovely.
"It is a privilege to be able to give an older dog a home with fun and new experiences when they have served their owners so well and worked loyally for many years. It’s a joy to watch Velvet still playing and snuffling on walks, and she has learnt that it is fun to swim in the sea. She has brought my family and myself much joy and many smiles! She loves the car and leaps in it on every possible occasion.
"It's potentially expensive having an older dog, as far as veterinary input is concerned, since they have a health history and potentially chronic conditions. Unfortunately pet insurance usually won’t offer support for pre-existing conditions. Nevertheless it's very rewarding to have an experienced retired guide dog. Velvet is a real gem."