AN optician is supporting the Northwest Centre for Guide Dogs by providing a loving home to one of its trainee pups.
Deepal Desai, who lives in Atherton, is acting as foster mum to Kaysey during 19 weeks of training, which will prepare her for a career as a guide dog.
The role of boarder is a pivotal role for the charity, providing the dogs with a welcoming and safe environment during the training and acting as the puppy's temporary family.
Without volunteers, the dogs would have to remain in the kennels during the training period, missing out on the love and affection of a full-time owner.
Deepal, 36, said: "It's been amazing looking after Kaysey since April, and I'll be continuing to look after her through the summer until she has completed the training in September.
"Knowing I am supporting a dog who will go on to change the life of a blind or partially-sighted person is an amazing feeling and I'd definitely encourage others to do the same!
"Kaysey is a lovely, friendly puppy and I know she will go on to make a great guide dog."