By Isle of Wight Observer
Two tiny bundles of golden fluff have become the newest recruits to Ability Dogs 4 Young People, as the Island charity celebrates the arrival of its 99th and 100th puppies. The pair of Golden Doodles, Zara and Cyril, were photographed in the garden of Anne Springman, alongside Jacqueline Gazzard, who has just become a patron of the charity.
Born on the Island nine weeks ago, the pups are a perfect mix of golden retriever and standard poodle – hypo-allergenic, highly intelligent, and ideally suited to the demanding work Ability Dogs undertake. Their names, chosen by Anne and Jacque, both have ancient roots associated with the word “golden”.
Ability Dogs 4 Young People trains assistance dogs to support disabled children and adults across the Isle of Wight, helping people with conditions including cerebral palsy, autism, diabetes, epilepsy, anxiety and depression. The dogs provide practical help, emotional reassurance, and the confidence that comes from having a constant, dependable companion. The charity commits to supporting each dog throughout its working life, ensuring that finance is never a barrier to someone receiving life‑changing assistance. Training a puppy costs around £6,000 a year for the first three years, covering everything from veterinary care to specialist development.
The charity is hoping that to mark Zara becoming the 100th pup entering training, that 100 people will help the adopt‑a‑puppy scheme to help bring independence to a young disabled Islander. Anyone who signs up to the ‘Adopt a Puppy’ scheme receives regular “pup-dates” as the dogs grow and learn. You can sign up via iw.observer/adopt-a-pup.
Anne said; “I wish I could be counted a young person as I’ve fallen in love with Zara!”