Dogs for the Disabled needs volunteers for Operation Restoration. Help build a new headquarters and reduce the three-year wait time.
The charity helps people a lot. Now, they want to train dogs faster, as the wait time is currently three years. Jenny Dowler is appealing for help from tradespeople, suggesting that plumbers and plasterers can volunteer their time, as the building needs work.
Their project, “Operation Restoration”, has begun, with rugby player Peter O’Mahony supporting them. More help is still needed to complete the project.
Jenny says the headquarters will last, and that any help will impact Irish families. The charity only trains disability assistance dogs. These dogs help children and adults, performing tasks like opening doors and even pressing crosswalk buttons.
The old place was too small. The new site has eleven acres where the charity can teach kids to walk safely. Clients in wheelchairs can train there too, without having to worry about others.
They need plumbing, electrics, and tiling done. Plastering and fencing are also needed, as the property is generally in bad shape. Any work will make a significant difference.
You can contact them to volunteer by sharing your name and email, and stating your trade or how you can aid. The new headquarters should open by 2026.
Jennifer Dowler started the charity in 2007. Elkie, a German Shepherd, helped at first, assisting Lucas, who had muscular dystrophy. They don’t charge for their dogs, and the charity aided 36 people in 2024 alone.