News

Doireann Garrihy announced as a New Ambassador and Advocate for Puppy Raisers

PRESS RELEASE

Irish Guide Dogs (IGD) is delighted to announce that broadcaster, podcaster, and presenter Doireann Garrihy has been officially appointed as an ambassador—and is calling on the public to consider becoming Puppy Raisers to help support the next generation of life-changing Guide and Assistance Dogs.

Doireann, known for her infectious energy and strong connection with audiences across Ireland, will support Irish Guide Dogs in raising awareness of its life-changing services for people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism.

In addition to championing these services, Doireann is appealing for more people to get involved as puppy raisers, who provide a vital first step in a Guide or Assistance dog’s training journey. Puppy raisers care for dogs in their first year of life, helping them develop the social skills and confidence they’ll need in their working lives.

She joins an impressive list of Irish Guide Dogs ambassadors, including football legend Roy Keane, Munster and Ireland rugby star Jack Crowley, and actor Shane Casey (The Young Offenders) — all of whom actively support the organisation’s mission to change lives.

Speaking about her new role, Doireann said:

“I’ve long admired the incredible work Irish Guide Dogs do to transform lives. To be invited to play a part in that mission is a real honour. I’m so excited to help shine a light on the difference these amazing dogs—and the team behind them—make every single day. The intelligence of the dogs and the high level of training they go through is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s inspiring to see just how much goes into each partnership.

I’d also really encourage anyone who can to consider becoming a puppy raiser—it’s such a unique and rewarding way to be part of something truly life-changing.”

As an ambassador, Doireann will lend her voice to national campaigns, help champion fundraising efforts, encourage participation in the Puppy Raising Programme, and share inspiring stories from Guide Dog and Assistance Dog partnerships across the country.

CEO of Irish Guide Dogs, Tim O’Mahony, welcomed the announcement:

“We are thrilled to have Doireann on board. Her passion, profile, and authenticity make her a perfect fit to help us reach even more people and communities. With her support, we can continue to grow awareness and ensure that more individuals and families can access our services. It’s an especially exciting time for the organisation as we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary next year—a major milestone in our journey of changing lives.

Puppy raising is absolutely vital to the success of our work—it’s the crucial first step in preparing our dogs for their future roles. We provide continuous support from our expert trainers, cover all veterinary costs, and supply food, so our volunteer puppy raisers can focus on giving the dog the best start in life and the great part is that the whole family can get involved. There’s also a strong, supportive community of fellow puppy raisers who are always ready to help each other along the way.”

For more information, to become a puppy raiser, or to support the work of Irish Guide Dogs, visit www.guidedogs.ie

ENDS

Photo: Doireann pictured with Puppy-in-Training Renee (Pic: Conor McCabe)