Pakuranga's Trivia Night goes to the dogs

Pakuranga Rotary Club held a trivia night in July with Mobility Assistance Dogs Trust as one of its recipients. At a presentation this month, the club’s Andrew Seeley presented a cheque for $8,000 to the Trust. Mobility Dogs Senior Canine Coordinator Natalie Ramm spoke about the Trust’s mission - to enhance the lives of people living with physical disabilities increasing independence, confidence, self-esteem and participation in New Zealand communities.

Natalie introduced mobility dog Leah which demonstrated some of the skills so beneficial to people with mobility problems. These dogs are trained to pick up items like teaspoons and car keys; they can push on lift, pedestrian crossing, and alarm buttons; and they can open doors amongst up to 90 commands which can potentially be taught depending on the recipient.  The Trust’s first Mobility Dogs working team graduated at the end of 2005; and approximately 40 trained mobility dogs have been placed since then. Mobility Assistance Dogs Trust relies on donations, so they are extremely grateful for the support of The Rotary Club of Pakuranga and other clubs like Ellerslie Sunrise.

Web:  www.pakuranga.rotarysouthpacific.org