Buddy and Sir Ian McKellen, a lovely friendship

Buddy and Sir Ian McKellen, a lovely friendship

Ever since their first meeting back in April on ITV’s This Morning, it was obvious that there was a lovely friendship in the making. So when Sir Ian suffered a serious accident during a performance of Player Kings on the West End in June… what did the Dr order?… Puppy Love of course!

We are so proud that Buddy was able to spend a few days with Sir Ian, and hope he was a real tonic in helping him recuperate. Following Buddy’s stay, Sir Ian wrote these words:

“Buddy and I met on the sofa of the TV morning show, when he was happy to sit alongside me as I talked about playing Falstaff onstage. This was not long before I slipped, slid and fell from the stage, injuring wrist and neck but not much else, thanks to the fat suit I was acting in.

Hilary, Buddy’s mentor and guardian, contacted me. I had told her how much I’ve enjoyed living with dogs throughout my life, though currently I am single, as it were. So she had an idea that Buddy might be the perfect companion to be with me as I recovered at home. And so it proved. Hilary set up his crate in my bedroom where he quietly slept within sight and sound of me. During the day, he rarely left my side.

But he’s a puppy, full of energy, and I found even the short walks in our nearby park could be a strain when he wanted to pull on his lead to play with another dog, eager for canine company. I was nervous that he might inadvertently wrench my wrist but goodness me, what a charmer he is, in looks and personality, with that love for food and treats which I was happy to believe was evidence that he also loved me a little bit.

I shall watch his progress with great interest, in the certainty that Hilary will train him up to be the perfect companion for someone who really needs his support to cope.”
 
This is their first meeting:

 

This is their reunion:

 
If you would like to see more videos about Dogs for Autism, please head on over to our Youtube channel.
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Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities

Join us at the BVA on Thursday, 19th September, to explore volunteering opportunities with Dogs for Autism! 🐶

We’re on the lookout for passionate puppy parents and event volunteers to help support our mission. We will be there from 11am until 2pm and from 12pm to 1pm, our amazing volunteers and staff will be demonstrating a small class with our adorable puppies in training. Come meet the pups, chat with our volunteers, and learn how you can make a life changing difference. We can’t wait to see you there! 🐕❤️

Peter and Coco on ITV This Morning

Peter and Coco on ITV This Morning

My autism assistance dog has saved my life

 
Before fifteen-year-old Peter Wilson, who has autism, was partnered with his assistance dog Coco, life for Peter and his family was almost unbearable. Unable to participate in school, or spend time out and about, the family were desperate. That’s when Coco the Cavapoo came along. Coco has since given Peter, and his family, their lives back meaning they can now look ahead to an independent future for Peter.

 

If you would like to see more videos about Dogs for Autism, please head on over to our Youtube channel.
 

YouTube channel
Dr Scott visits the Training Centre

Dr Scott visits the Training Centre

Dr Scott visits the Dogs for Autism Training Centre to meet founder Hilary Armour, and actor Leo Long and talks about the impact Autism has on individuals and families and how having a DfA’s assistance Dog called ‘Cashel’ has helped Leo.

 

If you would like to see more videos about Dogs for Autism, please head on over to our Youtube channel.

YouTube channel
New range of Buddy Merchandise

New range of Buddy Merchandise

We are so excited to be launching a new range of BUDDY Merchandise!!!

Not only is he the cutest and most photogenic puppy, but he makes an awesome tshirt design too!!!

Treat yourself and support us at the same time!

See full range here

Because we want our products to be made as sustainably as possible, we work with Teemill, an open-access circular economy supplier that makes products designed to be remade.

It matters to us that our products do not harm the environment. That’s why they are made using natural materials and renewable energy. To help wildlife thrive, the natural cotton in your products is produced organically, without any nasties or micro-plastics that can go back into and damage the environment.

Our packaging is also made from plants, not plastic. Your order arrives in this fun paper mailer that’s great for colouring in and can be reused to wrap gifts.