Guide dogs have such an important job, helping people who are blind or visually impaired to stay safe, navigate the world, and remain independent. So, it seems only right that they’re honored for it, with lots of praise, the best dog treats, or plenty of play, when the time comes that they’re no longer able to work.
Earlier this month, hundreds of people and pets in the UK honored a terminally ill guide dog by taking part in his final walk with him.
Ian, a red fox Labrador Retriever, was diagnosed with cancer and given weeks to live in January. An inoperable sarcoma was found in his chest, while he also had lymphoma in his lymph nodes. The eight-year-old dog couldn’t walk very far, so was pushed in a pram along Blackpool Promenade before being given a “guard of honor” by humans and fellow canines alike as he walked the final few steps. Around 80 dogs joined Ian for his walk.
Gemma Fairhurst, a volunteer puppy walker and Ian’s trainer, described herself as a “wreck” and thanked everyone for the love and support they showed Ian. Being the first of almost 20 guide dogs Fairhurst has trained, she’d previously agreed with his dog dad, Mark Fielding, that she’d care for him when he retired at the age of 10.
She first met Ian when he was seven weeks old, when she was recovering from having a pacemaker fitted following a heart attack, and has stayed close to him over the years after Mark invited her to stay in touch – even looking after Ian when Mark and his wife, Kerry, would go away.
Following Ian’s diagnosis, he was retired from guide dog work and returned to Gemma for the rest of his life. Gemma, who is also the founder of edible greetings card and pen company Scoff Paper, told BBC Radio Lancashire, “Unfortunately he isn't going to get the retirement he deserves... so I decided to arrange this walk for him.”
The walk also raised money for a worthy cause – called “5,000 Steps for £5,000”, it’s helping fund the training of another guide dog. The new guide dog will also be called Ian, to “carry on his amazing doggy legacy.”
The £5,000 target has already been surpassed, with over £8,000 currently raised. If you’d like to donate, Gemma has organized a GoFundMe here.
If you have any concerns about your own dog’s health, it’s best to consult your vet to rule out anything serious. You might also find these signs a dog is in pain useful to take note of, too.
