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
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