Canine Partners works with people with a complex range of physical disabilities which cause many of our clients to lead very limited lives. Their confidence and self-esteem is badly affected, and physically they are fatigued and often in a lot of pain. They fear leaving the house alone in case they encounter a challenge that they simply cannot overcome. Something like having to pick up dropped house keys or a mobile phone on a quiet street is an incredibly daunting prospect.

The practical and day-to-day support provided by a canine partner means that individuals can reduce their reliance on friends, family members and carers. The person’s energy can be conserved to get back out into their community, go back to work or explore new opportunities. More importantly these life-transforming dogs also provide psychological, emotional and social benefits, which should not be underestimated, including increasing people’s independence, confidence and self-esteem.