THERE’S a new four-legged celebrity in Worcester.
Bagel from Guide Dogs’ ‘Baker’s Dozen’ has arrived in the city.
The sight loss charity recently celebrated the arrival of its largest litter in three years – 13 puppies were born in August and are known as the ‘Baker’s Dozen’.
The 13 puppies were given baking-themed names inspired by sweet and savoury treats, in honour of the charity’s Guide Dogs Puppy Appeal, which encourages members of the public to fundraise and donate during the month of October.
It now costs Guide Dogs £77,000 to breed, raise and train every guide dog pup to partnership, up from £34,600 in 2019.
When the pups turn eight weeks old, they go to live with their puppy raisers, volunteers who will care for them for the first year of their life.
Puppy Bagel arrived in Worcester and has been settling into life with puppy raiser Rachel Harding.
Rachel said: “Our first couple of weeks as first time puppy raisers with Bagel has been a whirlwind. It’s been great fun and at the same time a learning curve for all of us. The lack of sleep and toilet training are all worth it when you just look at his gorgeous little face.”
Volunteer puppy raisers provide puppies with a loving home until they’re around 14 months old. They teach them basic commands and help them get used to different environments and sights, sounds and smells.
Hannah Fox, puppy development advisor at Guide Dogs covering Worcester, continued: “We’re really excited that Bagel from the Baker’s Dozen litter is living here in Worcester, they’re like little celebrities.
“Being a puppy raiser for Guide Dogs is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to raise a guide dog puppy and prepare them for their future role supporting someone with sight loss.
“Bagel will spend the next year getting used to all different sights, sounds, smells and environments so when he starts his formal guide dog training, he will be a confident, well-rounded dog.
“We’re looking for more puppy raisers in Worcestershire. Guide Dogs provide all the support and training you need, so you feel well equipped to care for your puppy when they arrive with you. We also cover essential costs, including food and vet bills.
“We’re looking forward to seeing how Bagel progresses through his training to become a life-changing guide dog.”
Visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/puppyraiser to find out more.