Dogs for Good visiting the Grosvenor Centre this weekend

Shoppers visiting Macclesfield’s Grosvenor Centre will be able to help support the next generation of assistance dogs when charity Dogs for Good visit the centre this Friday and Saturday.

From 9am to 5pm on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 August, fundraiser Kim Pang and her assistance dog, Ike, will be in the centre raising money and talking to shoppers about how they can support and play a part in helping fund the next generation of assistance dogs.

Alix Davis, Regional Fundraiser for Dogs for Good, said she was delighted that the pair would be in the Grosvenor Centre. “Kim and Ike have both been in the centre to talk to shoppers before and everyone was so receptive, I’m thrilled that they will be back this Friday and Saturday,” said Alix.

“Our assistance dogs support adults and children with a range of disabilities and also children with autism. We train activity and therapy dogs to work with specialist handlers in communities and schools. Our Family Dog team also gives specialist advice and support to help people get the most out of their relationship with their pet dog.”

Grosvenor Centre Manager, Ed Kennedy, said he was thrilled to be able to welcome Kim and Ike back to the centre. “Dogs for Good train dogs that support the people that need assistance the most in our community,” said Ed. “I’m really pleased that we’re able to provide them a space in the centre so that they can talk to shoppers about the really important work that they do and how shoppers can get involved and support them.

“Last time the pair were here they proved extremely popular with shoppers and I’m sure this time will be no exception,” said Ed.

“It costs more than £12,000 to train a puppy to be an assistance dog and then to match them to the correct partner to ensure the relationship is one that will last a lifetime,” added Alix. “Every penny of the money raised by visits like this to the Grosvenor Centre make such a difference.”