Bluebird Care sponsors training of 'Blue' for autism charity

Cork-based charity Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI) are collaborating with homecare providers Bluebird Care for sponsorship of a future service dog.

Blue, an eight-month-old Labrador Retriever, is currently being fostered by AADI’s senior training team as he begins his journey to become a fully-qualified autism assistance dog.

Bluebird Care is sponsoring the two-year training process as part of its commitment to empowering families living with additional needs.

Autism assistance dogs are trained to support children with autism by reducing anxiety, promoting emotional regulation and increasing safety in public spaces.

For children who are at risk of becoming overwhelmed in everyday environments, these type of dogs can provide life changing support.

Vasya Ponomarev, Corporate Partnerships Manager at AADI said:

“Our partnership with Bluebird Care is grounded in shared values. Both organisations are deeply committed to supporting families in local communities and creating long term, meaningful impact.

“AADI receives no government funding. We rely entirely on the generosity of the public and partners like Bluebird Care to fund this work and to give more children the chance to live safer, more independent lives.” 

Jonathan Gardner, Managing Director of Bluebird Care Ireland, added that this partnership reflects the care ethos of both organisations.

“Supporting AADI allows us to extend our commitment to specialist care for people with autism beyond the home. Through this sponsorship, we’re not just helping to train a dog, we’re helping to create safety, confidence and real quality of life for families across Ireland.” 

Bluebird Care and AADI are rolling out an educational roadshow throughout the month of June in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Waterford, to raise public awareness of the importance of autism assistance dogs.

Both are also are appealing for more local corporate support to raise and train puppies that can improve the lives of families living with autism spectrum disorder.

For more information visit www.autismassistancedogsireland.ie or call AADI on 021 235 7107.