Mum says assistance dogs “saved her life” after rare condition left her fearing being alone  

A mum from Bedfordshire living with a rare genetic condition, who says her assistance dogs have not only restored her independence but saved her life, has become the face of the charity’s new brand.  

Canine Partners matches people with a variety of physical disabilities with expertly trained assistance dogs, creating loving, life-changing partnerships. As part of its recent rebrand, Canine Partners selected several partnerships like Shelley’s – to shine a light on the real-life impact their dogs make every day. 

Shelley’s story 

Shelley, 52, lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which causes her joints to dislocate without warning. “I fall regularly, drop things, and even small movements can be painful. Some days I can walk, but others I rely entirely on my wheelchair,” she said. 

As her condition worsened, Shelley lost confidence and became increasingly isolated following disability discrimination at work. “I wouldn’t answer the phone or open the door. I was scared of being alone in case I fell.” 

At her lowest, she depended on her family for basic tasks. “I felt like a burden asking my children for help with things like getting dressed or going to the toilet.” 

After seeing Canine Partners on television, Shelley’s son suggested she apply for an assistance dog. Two years later, Shelley was partnered with Kibble, a black Labrador. Kibble helped with daily tasks such as picking up dropped items and raising the alarm in an emergency. “Because he did so much for me, I relied on my wheelchair less and could do more for myself. He gave me my independence back.  

He also transformed family life. “My husband was my husband again and my children were my children. They didn’t have to worry about me all the time.” 

Shelley believes her life would have been very different without Kibble. “He saved my life. I truly believe I wouldn’t be here without him.” 

After ten years together, Kibble retired, and Shelley quickly felt the loss of his support. Her confidence dropped, and a fall while trying to pick up her phone left her with a cracked rib. “It was a painful reminder of how much I relied on him.” In 2024, she was partnered with her second assistance dog, Meikle. “When Meikle arrived, it was like the lights came back on.” 

Meikle now supports Shelley both at home and out in the community, enabling her to carry out everyday activities independently. With Meikle by her side, she has regained her confidence. “I can live my life on my own terms again and nothing feels impossible.”  

Today, Shelley is looking to the future with hope. “Kibble and Meikle are lifesavers. Because of them, my children still have a mum and my husband still has a wife.” 

Shortly after Meikle arrived, Kibble sadly passed away. “I believe he waited until he knew Meikle could look after me. He passed away knowing I was safe.” 

As a face of the charity Shelley and Meikle took part in a photoshoot to showcase and have been turned into an illustration, which feature on the charity’s website, social media and fundraising materials,    

Canine Partners relies entirely on donations to breed, train and support their life-changing assistance dogs. To find out more or support the charity, visit caninepartners.org.uk