A KIND-HEARTED Solihull businessman is supporting a second puppy through its guide dog training.
Elliott Robinson, who runs oven valeting company Ovenu Solihull, is giving Ralph a financial helping hand through his training until he becomes a fully qualified guide dog at around two years of age.
The yellow Golden Retriever/Labrador cross replaces black Lab Selsey, which Ovenu franchisees first started sponsoring in 2021.
Although excelling in training, Selsey developed a slight weakness in one hip which meant she was unable to progress to become a working Guide Dog.
Despite the setback, Elliott wanted to continue his sponsorship in support of Ralph.
Now aged 10 months, Ralph is currently spending time with Puppy Raisers Toni and Adrian, two of the 16,000 volunteers that work with Guide Dogs.
He will remain with them until he’s 12 to 14-months-old before being considered for full Guide Dog training, with the longer-term ambition of being assigned to a visually impaired person.
Ralph has been described as ‘sweet and charming’ and his latest report card says he is brilliant at boarding public transport and is confident in busy environments, while his food manners are ‘almost there.’
Elliott said: “Guide Dogs is a fantastic charity and I’m pleased to be able to give something back by supporting its life changing work. These dogs provide those with sight loss greater mobility, independence, social interaction – as well as companionship.
“It’s also a way of saying a huge thank you to my clients who, without their continued support, I wouldn’t be in a position to sponsor this adorable pup.”
