When Becky Andrews got adorable assistance dog Gino in September 2013, her life changed forever.
The 33-year-old has cerebral palsy- a neurological condition that can cause muscle stiffness, weakness and coordination problems- after being born ten weeks early and suffered brain damage due to a lack of oxygen. Consequently, she is unable to walk and relies on an electric wheelchair to get around.
Becky, from Gloucestershire, says: "Before Gino, life had become very hard. I lost my job, and days were often very long and lonely. He helps in so many ways, getting items from shelves in supermarkets, handing my purse to the cashier, picking up dropped items which means I no longer need to go shopping with a carer.
"He also helps a great deal at home, helping me to undress by taking off my socks, shoes and get changed. He gets the phone, fetches the post, picks up his bowl after feeding, assists me to sit up in bed, brings the towel after my shower and takes my clothes out of the washing machine. He also recently learnt to take off his working jacket. He really makes me proud."
Becky also credits Gino with helping her regain independence. She says: "He's changed my life. I've started an internship with an energy company near me. Having Gino with me at work has really helped my confidence. They've accepted me and Gino as a partnership, and he even has his own name label above our desk! Together, we really are a team."
The pair have now formed an unbreakable bond, and enjoy each other's company. Becky adds: "Since I've been partnered with Gino, everyday seems so much brighter. We enjoy daily walks around our local area, and have met lots of people who stop and ask about Gino, so many people admire him and say how well-behaved and beautiful he is!"
For more information, please visit: www.caninepartners.org.uk