Southern Vectis backs Ability Dogs 4 Young People for 2018 charity drive
Southern Vectis has named Ability Dogs 4 Young People as its official charity for 2018. The bus company will spend the year fundraising to support the training of assistance dogs that help disabled children and young people on the Isle of Wight live more independently.
Training pups to change lives
Richard Tyldsley, Southern Vectis general manager, praised the local charity: “Ability Dogs 4 Young People is a crucial resource, training amazing dogs to boost the practical and emotional wellbeing of young people with mental and physical disabilities.”
Tyldsley added, “We’ve been blown away by the work they do. Meeting the dogs and their trainers has been a truly inspiring experience. We’re proud to back such a worthy cause and will do everything we can to raise funds this year.”
Training an Ability Dog is no quick fix – it takes two years and loads of dedication. The charity selects special Labradors, who are placed with volunteer ‘foster parents’ to socialise and start basic training at home. The pups then progress to intensive schooling before being teamed up with disabled youngsters to provide vital support.
Charity founder welcomes support
Carol Thomas, founder and CEO of Ability Dogs 4 Young People, said: “We’re thrilled to be Southern Vectis’ chosen good cause for 2018. This partnership will really help raise awareness about our work and the life-changing impact our dogs have on disabled young people.”
If you want to chip in, head over to abilitydogs4yp.org.uk to donate today.
