Harrogate dog lovers are invited to discover how they could make a life-changing difference as a volunteer puppy trainer.
Charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People will be hosting a special event on Saturday 25th April at Poppleton Tithe Barn.
The event, aptly named ‘Calling All Dog Lovers’, will give visitors the chance to meet the team behind the charity, chat to current volunteer puppy trainers about the role, speak to deaf people about the difference their hearing dog has made to them, and discover how they can get involved.
The event will begin with a 45-minute walk – with or without your dog – through the beautiful countryside near the Tithe Barn.
The first 50 dogs to arrive will be rewarded with a special bag of doggy treats.
Afterwards, guests will be invited back to the barn for a relaxed community gathering of tea, coffee and homemade cakes, as well as a tombola, raffle and home-grown plant stand.
There will also be a dog accessory stand showcasing flashing collars, car seat covers, high-visibility dog jackets, and toys, generously donated by Tesco Express in York.
Calling all Dog Lovers has been organised by Richard Cantrell, a Volunteer Dog Trainer for Hearing Dogs for more than 12 years.
He said:
“Whether you’re a lifelong dog lover or simply curious to learn more, this is a wonderful chance to see first-hand how hearing dogs transform lives - and how you could be part of that journey.
“By coming along, you’ll be able to meet the people and dogs at the heart of what we do, hear real stories from deaf people whose lives have been changed, and get a genuine feel for what volunteering is all about.
“Even if you’re not sure whether you’d like to volunteer yet, this event is a relaxed and friendly way to find out more, meet like-minded people, and enjoy a great day out in a beautiful setting.
“We’d love to welcome as many people as possible from the local community to come along and be inspired.”
A highlight of the afternoon will be a live hearing dog demonstration, showcasing the incredible skills hearing dogs learn to support their deaf partners.
From alerting to important household sounds like smoke alarms, doorbells, and alarm clocks, to recognising a baby’s cry or an intruder alarm, the dogs provide both practical help and emotional companionship.
Volunteer puppy trainers play a vital role in this journey, offering a loving home to young dogs during their training.
No prior experience is necessary - just time, patience, and a love of dogs.
The charity will cover all costs involved, from the moment the volunteer takes the puppy home, to when they are matched with one of its deaf partners after their training is complete.
Anyone who is unable to make the event, but would be interested in finding out more about becoming a volunteer puppy or dog trainer, can visit https://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/how-you-can-help/volunteer
'Inspirational' schoolgirl donates hair to help children in need
Police appeal after Harrogate man assaulted at home
Morrisons opens 'Asian Corner' at Harrogate store
New ward-based library introduced at Harrogate Hospital
Harrogate care home donates £1,000 to charity battling loneliness
Builders unearth medieval well in Ripon city centre
Knaresborough teacher to run London Marathon in aid of Henshaws
Drugs seized and two arrested in Knaresborough
Spiegeltent returns to Harrogate for summer extravaganza
Starbeck festival set to return for third year
Police appeal to locate Harrogate fuel thief
Harrogate MP set to take on London Marathon in aid of colitis charity
Expansion could add £17m to northern economy, says Harrogate Spring Water
New café to open in place of Hoxton North this week
Ripon vintage tractor run to return this weekend
Ladies lunch event raises £25,000 for Yorkshire children's hospice
Yorkshire Baby & Toddler Show Returns
Lightwater Valley officially opens 'epic' new rollercoaster
Three Harrogate boxers scoop medals at international tournament
Harrogate woman's stroke at 37 inspires fundraising drive for vital charity
