October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month, a time to highlight the realities of living with this lifelong condition. Present from birth, Spina Bifida affects how the spine and spinal cord develop, meaning even simple tasks can be exhausting, frustrating, and isolating.
Denise, from Staffordshire, knows this all too well. Born with Spina Bifida and living with osteoarthritis, a condition that causes joint pain and stiffness, her mobility is limited. “I can only walk short distances with callipers and crutches and rely on a motorised wheelchair when I go out. I get tired quickly, drop things constantly, and struggle with even the smallest tasks. I feel trapped by my own body.”
After hearing about Canine Partners, Denise decided to apply for an assistance dog. “I wasn’t sure if I was disabled enough to qualify, but after a lot of thought and encouragement from friends, I decided to apply and let the experts decide.
In 2014, Denise was partnered with her first canine partner, Murray, a yellow Labrador. Murray gave Denise greater independence and practical support, helping with daily tasks and giving her more energy for the things that mattered most. “I fell in love with him straight away. He was eager to please, a quick learner, and we just clicked.”
In 2022, four months after Murray had sadly passed away, Denise was partnered with her current dog, Claro, a black Golden Retriever cross Labrador. “Claro is calm, thoughtful, and always attentive. He helps me with things like picking items up, getting the washing out of the machine, and supporting me at night.”
With Claro by her side, Denise no longer needs a carer at night and can make her own choices about her routine – something that has made a huge difference to her independence.
But the impact goes far beyond practical support. Claro and Murray have also provided essential vital emotional support for Denise.
I don’t feel trapped or alone anymore. Both Claro and Murray have given me freedom and control over my day-to-day life. They’ve helped me feel calmer, less frustrated, and less alone.
Having a canine partner has transformed Denise’s confidence and outlook on life. “ I’m more active, more sociable, and doing things I never thought I was capable of. I can’t imagine life without them and everything they’ve given me.