Litter of Labrador puppies take their first steps toward becoming life-changing assistance dogs

Charity appeals for volunteers to support future assistance dogs

Canine Partners, the UK charity that trains assistance dogs to give adults with physical disabilities independence and confidence, has welcomed a litter of eight yellow Labrador cross Golden Retriever puppies in Northampton through its specialist breeding programme.

The seven-week-old puppies are currently living with their Dog Breeding volunteer, Lucy, who provides a safe, loving home for mum Hobnob as she raises future assistance dogs. Volunteers like Lucy play a vital role in giving puppies the best possible start in life, and the charity is urgently seeking more people in the Northamptonshire area to take on this essential role.

Liz Lacey, Breeding Manager at Canine Partners, said: “Every puppy we raise has the potential to change a life. But that journey begins with our Dog Breeding volunteers, who give mums like Hobnob the stability and care needed to raise healthy puppies. We urgently need more volunteers. Without them, these dogs cannot go on to help the people who need them.” 

At eight-weeks-old, the puppies will move into the homes of Puppy Training volunteers. These volunteers are taught the fundamentals of puppy socialisation and early training by Canine Partners’ expert team, who guide and support them throughout the process. 

Ronnie Paskouis, Puppy Training Manager at Canine Partners, said: “The first year in a volunteer home shapes our puppies’ entire future. Volunteers introduce them to new experiences, help them grow in confidence, and lay the foundations needed for their future life-changing role.” 

Founded in 1990, Canine Partners trains highly skilled assistance dogs for adults with a wide range of physical disabilities. From practical tasks such as opening doors and loading washing machines to providing companionship, confidence, and independence, each dog transforms the lives of the people they support.  

With demand for the charity’s assistance dogs growing and more than 90 people currently on the waiting list for a canine partner, every new litter is vital to ensure more people benefit from these life-changing partnerships.   

No experience is needed as Canine Partners provides volunteers with full training, equipment, and ongoing support, as well as covering all essential costs. For more information about becoming a dog Breeding or Puppy Training volunteer, visit: caninepartners.org.uk/volunteering