Donna

I first heard about Hounds for Heroes at a Masonic Lodge meeting I attended. I had already started to look for ways to “pay it forward” as my son had been poorly at birth. I wanted to help pass on our experiences of disability and physical disability to help and support the next person who needed it.

My son has additional needs and the Hounds for Heroes puppies have proved time and time just how valuable they can be in someone’s life. Be it a cuddle whilst watching TV, attentively listening to preparation for the next spelling test or being at school assembly to see Alf get star of the week.

The puppies get a training session at the weekend with Alf but this is also our family time to chill out and have some fun and adventures.

Everyone plays an active role – my partner, my best friend, my parents – they all support the puppies on our adventure. And they are there to support me when it is time for the puppies to move on to the next stage of their adventure.

The puppies are involved in every aspect of our day – school drop offs and pick ups, reading sessions, assemblies, health care appointments, meetings, half term activities, beach days, picnics, holidays, shopping. Everything we do involves a training experience, no matter how small or big.

Being a stay-at-home mum and carer, finding something rewarding and worthwhile has been so valuable it has given me something to do with my time, it keeps me busy and active.