(CJWW file image)

The first two guide dog puppies to be raised in Saskatchewan, have been sent off to Carleton Place, Ontario for formal training. The year-old puppies, named Indy and Percy, have finished their obedience and socialization training.

Kerry Macdonald, the volunteer puppy raiser in charge of Indy, says that while he will miss Indy, he is excited for his journey ahead. Macdonald says Indy is the first dog he has had in close to 50 years, and he can t wait to train another puppy when the times right.

Christall Beaudry, Executive Director of CNIB Saskatchewan, says that a benefit to having the dogs raised in Regina is that they ll be used to Canada s climate and terrain. She adds that she is thrilled to see the first run be a success and is excited to keep the program going.

Year-old puppies, Indy and Percy, will now have to learn how to stop at curbs, walk in straight lines, find seats, and navigate around obstacles.

CNIB apprentice puppy raising supervisor Kezia Gray, says that, due to the success of the program, they’re are looking for more people to be puppy raisers. The graduation rate of CNIB s guide dog program is around 65 per cent. (ckrm July 27/20)