A PUPPY training centre in Horley has welcomed a new recruit.
Octavia, a six-month-old Labrador, joined the Surrey satellite group of Canine Partners at the end of last year.
The charity runs weekly sessions in Horley Methodist Church, training dogs to help people with severe disabilities so they enjoy more independence.
Sara Trott, who was a trainer at the Victoria Road centre until December, said: "Octavia is doing really well, she's just started getting on trains and going into supermarkets. She has got a lovely temperament and she's very happy and positive with people."
Octavia will remain in training for about 14 months, then sent to one of the charity's advanced centres for more involved training. She will then be matched with a disabled owner.
Ruth Narracott, who has recently started running the Horley sessions, said: "We tailor the dog's training for the person's disability. What that person needs the dog to do most of, we will train them to do. If they need a lot of help around the house we will make sure their house work is really good. If the owner is commuting into work then we will train the dog around an office environment."
Animals which have been trained by the charity can help people with disabilities affecting their walking or the use of their arms and hands.
After launching the Horley centre in 2013, Miss Trott left late last year tfor one of the charity's advanced training centres.
She said: "We've had three dogs go on to advanced training and we have got a lot of new people on board. It's always hard to get the name across and it took a bit of time to get people down and doing demonstrations. But it's been fantastic, we have built up really, really well."
While the puppies are in training they live with a family in the area. The charity is always looking for more volunteers.
Puppy satellite supervisor Ronnie Paskouis said: "Although previous experience with dogs is not required, a puppy parent will need to be home most of the day, have a secure dog-friendly garden, enjoy the fun of classes and outings and have the stamina to manage an active young puppy.
"Canine Partners will provide food and equipment for the puppy and cover all veterinary costs for the duration of the puppy parent relationship."
For more information go to www.caninepartners.org.uk/ surrey-local
Classes at the Horley centre are usually held on Mondays.
