Welcome to Paw Prints!

A Festive Message of Thanks...

..from Assistance Dog owner, Laura.

My family is one of the lucky ones. Because we have Piper, our incredible Assistance Dog.

She keeps my son Seán safe, and she makes him happy. With Piper by his side, Seán can go out and explore the world.

With Christmas fast approaching, I can't help but think of mams who are where I used to be. Afraid to take their child to see the Christmas lights, visit Santa, or even go shopping for presents. My heart goes out to them.

It makes me sad. Not just sad - angry. Every child like Seán deserves an Assistance Dog like Piper. Standing at their side, keeping them safe, and giving parents precious peace of mind.

If you can, please donate to Irish Guide Dogs this Christmas to help train an Assistance Dog like Piper. You'll be changing a child's life, and their whole family's, just like you changed mine.

Thank you so much. I wish you and your family a happy and safe Christmas.

Laura Nyhan

A Year in the Life of Iris

Meet Iris! She’s just begun her formal training at our Training Centre, and her amazing puppy raisers, Michelle and Brian, have been capturing every step of her journey with them.

From mastering basic obedience to exploring bustling shopping centres, exciting car rides, climbing stairs, and even meeting other animals, Iris has been busy preparing to change someone’s life. Click the video below.

While there’s no doubt Iris will go on to transform the life of her future owner, her puppy raising journey has already brought immense joy, laughter, and love to Michelle and Brian.

Becoming a puppy raiser isn’t just about helping a dog—it’s about creating life-changing moments for both your furry trainee and your family, and ultimately their eventual guide or assistance dog owner. Could you be the next hero in a puppy’s story? All costs are covered, and training and support are ongoing. Find out more here

From Trainee to Top Dog Mentor

Sometimes a dog needs to step away from our formal training programmes, and when they do, their story often takes a wonderful new turn. Many go on to become incredible “career change” dogs—beloved pets, trusted companions, or even one of our Ambassador Dogs.

Wren is one of those special successes. He’s taken on the role of “big brother” to Quaid, a puppy in training, offering gentle guidance, sharing helpful training tips, and providing plenty of cosy cuddles along the way. Dogs really do learn from each other. Quaid might already be shooting past his Big Bro in height at just six months old, but he’ll always look up to Wren as his mentor and best buddy!