A CHARITY is in desperate need of puppy socialisers to help train future assistance dogs.

Dogs for the Disabled in Atherton is looking for 15 dog lovers in the north west to help with the early training of its next intake of puppies.

They will be responsible for teaching their pup basic skills such as walking on a lead and commands such as sit as well as introducing them to locations such as supermarkets and hospitals to prepare them for their working life.

Dave Tarr, from Southport, started socialising chocolate Labrador Jess, who is now eight months, in February. He said: “We love dogs and socialising for Dogs for the Disabled is a real win-win for us.

“We get to look after and work with a gorgeous puppy and have the main expenses (food, vet bills) paid for. Holiday cover is also guaranteed.”

Potential volunteers need to have a secure garden and be able to look after a puppy from eight weeks for up to 14 months and attend monthly puppy classes.

The puppies will become fully-qualified assistance dogs for a disabled adult or child and armed with an array of skills including picking up dropped items, fetching the phone, unloading the washing machine, calling lifts and helping someone to dress and undress.

To find out more, contact Liz Stone by calling 01295 759827 or email her at liz.stone@dogsforthedisabled.org.