A CHARITY has launched an appeal to search for volunteers to provide temporary homing for guide dogs.

Guide Dogs are looking to find homes for the canines for up to 26 weeks while they undergo training at the Manchester Mobility Team in Atherton in preparation to care for people who are blind or partially sighted.

Boarders must be willing to follow guidelines from the dog’s trainers and drop them off in a vehicle at the Gibfield Park Avenue centre from Monday to Fridays between 7.30am to 9am and collect them from 4.30pm to 6pm.

A Guide Dogs volunteer boarder said: “It is very rewarding to be involved in the upbringing of a guide dog which will one day provide freedom and independence to a blind or partially-sighted person.”

The charity will supply equipment and pay for all veterinary and feeding expenses.

Training and support will be provided by Guide Dogs staff members.

Holidays and short breaks could be accommodated during the dog’s stay.

Anyone interested in offering a home will be subject to suitable references, a home visit and an interview.

For more information contact Janet on 07780 958873 or e-mail janet.harper@guidedogs.org.uk.