I am a volunteer Puppy raiser for Guide Dogs UK and I am currently raising my third puppy the gorgeous Taylor. On the 17th October myself, Julian and Taylor will be taking part in ‘Hike the Night’ for Guide Dogs.

Taylor's Story

Saturday 27 June began so normally: a lovely dog walk with a friend, fresh air, wagging tails and no hint of what was to come. By that afternoon, Taylor was at the vets, and by Sunday evening he was critically ill with acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (AHDS).

On Monday morning, Taylor was transferred to a specialist veterinary hospital, where he spent more than a week in intensive care. He received the latest medication and dedicated one-to-one care, while we waited anxiously for updates twice a day. His recovery was slow but he was finally well enough to come home on 8 July, having lost at least 5kg, with no certainty about what the future would hold.

The experience was frightening, exhausting and deeply emotional. Taylor may not officially be our pet, but as volunteer puppy raisers, we pour our hearts into caring for him. The bond we build is not just affectionate — it is essential. It helps a guide dog puppy feel safe, learn with confidence and prepare for the life-changing role they may one day fulfil.

Watching Taylor go through such a serious medical condition was one of the most frightening experiences we have faced. We were desperately worried about what lay ahead for him. But Guide Dogs’ swift support ensured he was quickly transferred to the specialist team and given the care he needed to make a fully recovery.

We are delighted — and incredibly relieved — to say that Taylor is now back to running around, enjoying life with us, and continuing his training. His weight has returned to normal, and recent blood tests have shown no lasting damage to his internal organs.

Julian and I are raising money for Guide Dogs in recognition of the extraordinary care Taylor received, to help the charity support people with sight loss to live independently. As Guide Dogs relies almost entirely on public donations, money raised will directly help fund the charity’s services, which include caring for and training future life changers, like Taylor. On average, it now costs £77,000 to breed, raise and train every guide dog, and £25,000 to support each partnership throughout their working lives together.

Thanks to the care and support he received it’s possible for Taylor to one day transform someone's life — helping a person with sight loss experience greater independence, mobility and confidence.

Please donate whatever you can and share Taylor's story. Every contribution, however small, will help support Guide Dogs' life-changing work — and give more dogs like Taylor the chance to change someone's life.