Young Master Jenkins enjoys school
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Bob Pickworth and John Wycliffe Christian
School students talk about Jenkins.
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When Puppy Raiser Bob Pickworth took his first Guide Dogs NSW/ACT puppy to work
seven years ago, he couldn't have anticipated what a successful move it would be.
A farmer and dog breeder, Bob is also Head of Middle School at John Wycliffe Christian School in the lower Blue Mountains area of Warrimoo.
With over 700 students from Kindergarten to Year 12, the Guide Dogs pups are an important part of school life, helping younger children to learn about safe behaviour
around dogs and allowing older children to develop a greater sense of responsibility
and care.
Many kids don’t have pets at home, making this contact even more
significant for them.
So far, the students have welcomed and worked with Sheena, Star, Saffron, Angus,
Genna and their current recruit, young Master Jenkins.
“The kids really help in socialising the dogs,” says Bob. “They’re used to kids being on
them and over them all day, all the noise and sounds in the classroom and out, as well
as on the bus and train. Pretty much all the distractions you’d find in the real world.”
Students discover early that the little puppy joining them has some serious work to do
in the coming months. “It’s important to keep in mind that the dog is going to be the eyes
and
mobility guide for someone who is blind or vision impaired,” says Bob.
A student team is put through a brief training course in basic animal care: walking, washing,
brushing and toileting the dog, as well as safety and hygiene such as washing hands after
contact. Names are assigned to a sizeable roster that breaks the tasks down to before school,
recess, lunch and after school.
“They don’t play games with the dogs as these teach the dogs bad habits, but they do talk.
If any of the students is having a bit of a hard time, if they’re stirred up or upset, they’ll often
come to his office to visit the dog, or take the dog for a walk around the oval to share their woes.
It has a calming influence,” Bob explains.
We’re currently seeking Puppy Raisers in the Chatswood/Hornsby area, so, if you are interested,
please contact the Guide Dogs Centre on (02) 4579 7555 for more information or to apply for the
program.
In fact, if you’d like to know more about Puppy Raising, or other ways you can help support
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT’s important work, please call (02) 9412 9300 or visit our website
www.guidedogs.com.au.