Testimonial: Stuart and 'Charlie'

Brisbane’s Stuart Lumsden counts himself lucky to be doing one of the best volunteer jobs going at Guide Dogs Queensland.

In the six years Stuart has volunteered for us he has raised three puppies and boarded 33 dogs over periods of a few days to a few months.

“It’s almost a privilege to provide a home to these dogs,” Stuart said.

“They are going on to transform someone’s life and to be a part of that process is very rewarding.”

“The ultimate is seeing the dogs on graduation day when they are recognised for their qualification and you see them with their vision impaired client, it brings me to tears every time,” he said.

A retired pilot, Stuart lives at Stafford Heights which is close to our Breeding and training Centre at Bald Hill. He is often called upon to take in dogs which have undergone surgery and need a quiet loving home in which to recover.

“I was raising puppies but it suits me to have dogs for shorter periods of a couple of weeks or months rather than a 12 month commitment,” he said.

He is currently boarding a lively 19-month-old Labrador Golden Retriever cross called ‘Charlie’ who has undergone formal Guide Dog training but was found to be easily distracted by cats and other dogs.

“Charlie is a beautiful dog and I’m really enjoying having him but he will go on to another permanent home when it is found,” Stuart said.

Stuart said since becoming a boarder he will often host a ‘dog-in’ where he invites one or two of his neighbours and their dogs over for a visit.

“The dogs have a run around the yard and we have a social catch up over a glass of wine, it’s a lot of fun,” he said.

Click here to find out more about how to become a volunteer boarding carer or contact Guide Dogs Queensland on 3261 7555.

Download the application form to become a volunteer boarding carer here.