‘Flood-puppies’ need new homes - January 2011
Eight Guide Dog puppies born under dramatic circumstances during the flood now need safe and loving homes to be raised in. 
The pups – all of whom have names beginning with the letter ‘W’ - were born to their mum ‘Pip’ at the height of the flood emergency in Brisbane by way of a caesarian section.
‘Pip’ was one of more than 40 dogs quickly moved out of the Guide Dog Breeding and Training Centre in North Brisbane and was just hours from giving birth when she took refuge with staff in a motel during the critical final stages of her pregnancy.
She was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic when her labour failed to progress, and despite the stress of the situation, all pups arrived safe and well.
GDQ CEO Chris Laine said ‘Pip’s special litter now needed foster mums and dads to come forward and take on the incredibly rewarding task of helping the pups become Guide Dogs.
“The puppies have already shown they are ready to take on whatever is thrown at them and we now need willing volunteers to help them take the next step in their remarkable journey,” Ms Laine said.
Ms Laine said the organisation was aware that many people had suffered flood damage to their homes and would not be in a position to help.
“We face a daunting task trying to find homes that have not been damaged and people who have the time to raise a puppy,” Ms Laine said.
She said for those who were able - taking on a ‘W’ Litter pup was another way of helping toward the flood recovery effort.
“We were lucky the centre was not inundated but the flood has impacted on our fundraising activities and also on the people available to volunteer for critical roles like puppy raising,” she said.
“It’s a unique calling to be the eyes of a person who is blind and these puppies have already overcome a big hurdle in surviving a delivery during stressful circumstances, they will be a litter to remember,” Ms Laine said.
The puppies are pure Labrador Retrievers including five boys and three girls, they are all black, except one boy who is yellow.
Ms Laine said Puppy Raisers needed to have a fenced yard, flexible working hours and the time to educate and socialise a pup over a 12-month period. She said all equipment, food, advice and support was provided by qualified Guide Dog supervisors.
“We are especially proud of his litter of ‘water babies’ and hope to find suitable homes in February.”
“I would encourage anyone who is interested in ‘making a difference’ to apply,” Ms Laine said.
To attend a FREE information session contact Guide Dogs Queensland on 3261 7555 or go to guidedogsqld.com.au for the criteria.
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