Cork's Jack Crowley appeals for volunteer families to raise a puppy

CORK rugby player Jack Crowley has appealed for volunteers to sign up as puppy raisers for Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.

The Ireland fly-half is an ambassador for the charity, with his own family having raised many puppies who went on to become guide and assistance dogs.

“Puppy-raising was part of family life growing up,” said Mr Crowley.

“We all got involved, helping each pup to socialise, learn the basics of obedience, and experience everyday activities such as travelling on buses, trains, and even going to some of my games.

“It’s a huge commitment, but we knew that every time a pup left to start formal training, we had given it a significant start in its journey to changing someone’s life.

“Every time I visit the centre now, I’m tempted to sign up again!”

Puppy-raising supervisor Shereen Pearson added that anyone can apply, explaining: “Retired people and families with children generally make good puppy-raisers. But many people combine their role by bringing their pup to the office a couple of days a week, attending appointments, and visiting family and friends.

“The important thing is that the person is able to spend time caring for and teaching the puppy.”

Training and ongoing support is provided to each puppy-raiser by the charity, which also covers all veterinary fees and feeding costs, as well as providing equipment and cover for holidays.

The requirements are that the puppy must live inside, must not be left alone for more than four hours, and that raisers have a fully enclosed garden with walls or fences minimum 5ft high.

You must be 18 years or older to apply, and children in the home must be over five years of age.

There should be no more than two dogs in the home of the puppy-raiser already, and all dogs should be over 12 months old, neutered/spayed, up-to-date on all vaccinations, and well-behaved around other dogs.

The charity runs free information webinars regularly, with two coming up on Wednesday, February 21, and Wednesday, February 28, both at 7pm, which you can register for by emailing pups@GuideDogs.ie.