Guide Dog visit in Willow Lodge

Children in Willow Lodge had a special, surprise visitor in assembly recently when they were joined by Lotta, a Guide Dog puppy in training.

Lotta currently lives with our Admissions Manager, Erica Sears, and her husband who volunteer as Puppy Raisers for the charity Guide Dogs for the Blind.

For the last year, Mr and Mrs Sears have provided a home for Lotta whilst socialising her so that she is used to a variety of environments in preparation for the next stages of becoming a Guide Dog.

The children were excited to meet Lotta and to hear from Bethan McDonald, who works for the charity, all about the work that Guide Dogs for the Blind do to give independence to people with sight loss. 

Deputy Head of Willow Lodge, Miss Gardiner, explained that Lotta’s visit had special significance for Willow Lodge. 

She said: “We recently asked the children to nominate a charity for this academic year and, from a shortlist, they chose to support Guide Dogs for the Blind.

“Meeting Lotta and hearing from Bethan has been great for the children as it has helped them understand what a difference our fundraising will make.

“Lotta behaved so well and was very patient with the children who enjoyed stroking her and saying hello.

“The children have lots of good ideas for raising money and we are looking forward to starting our fundraising for this important charity.”

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