Dogsey

David Blunkett has paid tribute to his guide dog, Sadie. Sadie has worked with Blunkett for nine years and at almost eleven years of age, she is about to retire. Sadie is to go to the home of a dog lover in Derbyshire and although she will enjoy country walks and cosy firesides, Mr Blunkett has admitted he can barely imagine what life will be without her and that he will miss her terribly.

Describing Sadie as his “left leg”, Mr Blunkett spoke movingly about their years together - all the amazing places they went and people they met, including the Queen. Sadie is his fifth guide dog and he has a new dog ready to take over. The dog is Crosby, a 19-month-old labrador/retriever cross, who despite still having a great deal to learn, will be visiting the commons with David Blunkett today.

Expressing his gratitude to to all six of his guide dogs and the support teams involved with them, including the Guide Dog Association trainers, Mr Blunkett commented:

“Collectively, they have given me the independence, mobility and equality which have been the hallmark of my life And for that I am profoundly grateful.”