For more than 30 years, Andy lived with the lasting effects of a spinal cord injury sustained in a car accident. Everyday tasks such as getting dressed, leaving the house and doing the washing were difficult, and left him physically exhausting. Over time, he became increasingly isolated and began to face the possibility of needing full-time care in the future. 

The decision to apply for an assistance dog was prompted by Andy’s young niece. Andy recalls, “I’d had the application forms for a long time, and then my niece said, ‘You should fill them out, then you don’t have to be on your own, Uncle Andrew.” Encouraged by her love and concern, Andy applied for an assistance dog through Canine Partners. 

In 2024, Andy was partnered with Laila, a black Labrador cross Golden Retriever. When they met for the first time, the bond was immediate. “She jumped on my knee, licked my face, and I just knew she was mine. She stole my heart,” Andy said. 

Since being partnered with Laila, Andy’s physical and mental health have improved significantly, and his relationships with his family are stronger than ever. 

“I used to spend most of my time miserable at home. Now, I’m out all the time. Laila helps me with everyday tasks, which gives me the energy to enjoy life again. I visit my parents every day instead of once a week, and my family say I’m like a new person. I can’t imagine life without her – she’s my best friend,” Andy said. 

Andy’s sister, Kim, has witnessed the transformation firsthand. “Laila and Andy were inseparable from day one. She gives him a reason to get up in the mornings, and they understand each other completely. It’s the love and companionship he truly deserved,” she said. 

Chrissie Hyland, Laila’s trainer and Assistance Dog Training Team Leader, added: “Andy has gone from withdrawing from life to fully embracing it. Laila has not only improved his day-to-day independence but will also help protect his independence in the long term. Andy once told me that Laila will ‘keep me out of the care system’, which really shows the lasting impact our dogs can have.” 

Home Assistance Canines 

Laila is a home assistance dog, trained by Canine Partners to support Andy in and around his home. Home assistance canines are tailor-trained to their partner’s needs and can carry out important practical tasks inside the home that our partners may find painful, tiring or physically cannot do themselves. This could include retrieving dropped items, calling help in an emergency, helping with undressing, and many more. They do not have public access rights in shops or public environments, but they can accompany their partners on walks in the local outdoor areas for exercise.