A charity near Coalville is looking for 'dedicated volunteers' to help train puppies to be assistance dogs.

Canine Partners in Osgathorpe wants people with time and energy to care, socialise and give basic training to a dog.

Caring for a puppy from eight weeks of age, you will learn new skills, make new friends, and be supported every step of the way - plus all the puppies' food and vet bills will be covered.

Katie, trainer for the Coalville and Leicestershire area, is currently supporting four pups living with their Puppy Parents.

She said: "It's so wonderful to see the puppies develop.

"From a fluffy bundle at eight-weeks-old, to inquisitive and energetic at six months old, to being able to respond to basic commands and ready to move on to Advanced Training, at around 14 months."

"Our Puppy Parents do an amazing job and we keep them in touch with their puppy's journey even when the puppy is no longer living with them.

"We are so grateful for their support."

The charity's dedicated trainers expertly train the dogs, teaching skills such as helping to dress and undress, support around the house and even help with shopping.

These everyday tasks that many of us take for granted, can be life-transforming for their partner, helping them live their life to the full.

Each canine partner undertakes a specialist two-year training programme, from puppy through to partnership, working with the charity's specialist teams, supported by volunteers. At all stages, training is fun and reward-based.

Canine Partners relies on volunteers to look after the puppies and dogs in its training programme, providing a loving home and supporting their training, so they have the best start on their journey to becoming an assistance dog.

The 'Puppy Parent' volunteers care for our puppies for 12-14 months, working hard to socialise each pup and creating a comfortable environment for them to thrive in.

Each puppy and volunteer is overseen by a trainer at Canine Partners, who provides weekly training sessions to help build skills which are further developed at home.

Canine Partners want to hear from you if you are interested in volunteering with a puppy or dog.

There are lots of rewarding roles to suit all lifestyles, and you can get in touch at [email protected] or visit HERE to find out more.