Dukinfield, Cheshire - July 2026

Anything is paws-ible

They say Man’s best friends are Dogs. A recent Women’s meeting at Dukinfield Moravian Church, proved this wrong as it was the ladies turn to have some paw-some fun!

The group were visited by two Guide dogs from the local area to hear more about the training and use of these fantastic canines.

First, we heard from Norma, who has been blind since birth who brought her current dog, Layla. Norma has been brought up in a Blind School where she had to board at in her early life, and she later married Keith. Norma is now on her third dog (Layla), but her husband, Keith, claims he is now obsolete as Norma has so much independence. Layla has even saved Norma’s life in a near miss car accident. Both explained how Layla has become part of their family and how they couldn’t be without them.

Lauren brought along Vader (as seen in the photo) who is in his first year of training. This is an intensive period when puppies are put through their paces at socialising, behaviour/attitude and groomed to the best of health. Only 50% of puppies that start make the grade to be top dog. Lauren’s previous training dog, Rosie, has been a boon to her new owner, and even though Lauren was sad to see her go, she knows that the bond between owner and guide dog is vital for people to have a self-sufficient life to reach their best potential.

We learnt that there is currently a deficit of Guide Dogs in training due to COVID so the Guide Dogs organisation are trying to catch up on this. Lauren has said that volunteering has helped her own confidence and life – and that taking Vader to many experiences such as the Ballet, Leisure centres, Church etc. … is preparing him for whatever his new owner may need.

Their next plan to visit our Scouts group, Dementia Warriors and also the local Rotary so that Vader can experience as much as possible.

Hebrews 13:16: ‘And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased’.

Sr Penny Weir