Blog

Our blog is the place to find out what’s happening at Canine Partners!

We’ll keep you up to date with everything from our heart-warming partnership stories, to top tips from our Dog Welfare team.

You can also find out who’s been supporting us and see how our volunteers help out. Maybe you could feature here soon? Email news@caninepartners.org.uk if you’ve got a story to share!

Fun ways to challenge your dog’s mind: Exploring Freework 

What is Freework?  Freework allows dogs to explore their environment using textures, scents and tastes. Unlike structured training, it focuses on choice and curiosity, helping dogs to release energy, reset and rebalance.  Through sensory exploration, dogs learn to problem-solve, gain confidence and strengthen their bond with their owner.  Why Freework is good for your dog?  Freework is more than just play. It is a way to support … read more

Posted 1 month ago

How two incredible assistance dogs made a lifelong dream possible: Tracy’s story 

International Day of Education: Meet Tracy and canine partner, Smartie  Education should be accessible to everyone, no matter their age, disability, or life circumstances. On International Day of Education, we celebrate what’s possible when barriers are removed and the right support is in place.  Tracy’s journey is a powerful example of how assistance dogs can transform lives, opening doors … read more

Posted 1 month ago

Meet Andy and Laila 

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 … read more

Posted 1 month ago

Class of 2025

This year, 20 canine partner partnerships have been created, each one bringing independence, support, and companionship into someone’s life. We also celebrated two home assistance canine partnerships, providing vital practical support in the home. In addition, two canine companions found homes with individuals living with physical disabilities or conditions, offering comfort and emotional support. Our … read more

Posted 2 months ago

Canine Partners 2026 London Marathon Runner!

Barry Fields, from Nottinghamshire, started supporting Canine Partners in 2023 when he and his wife, Siobhan, became Puppy Training volunteers. Alongside their three daughters and family Labrador, Albus, they welcomed eight-week-old Labrador puppy, Flo, into their home.   Over the course of a year, Barry and his family helped train and socialise Flo, preparing her for her future as a life-changing assistance dog. As part of her early … read more

Posted 2 months ago

A first Christmas together: Meet Paul and canine partner Wilson

In 2012, at just 20, a serious road traffic accident left Paul tetraplegic, paralysed from the chest down, with very limited movement in his arms and no hand function. He spent the eight months after his accident in hospital recovering and was discharged on his 21st birthday.  “Returning home was a mix of relief and anxiety. Shortly after, my dad suffered a stroke and his mobility became limited, requiring the use of a wheelchair. Having two wheelchairs … read more

Posted 2 months ago