Introducing southern stars!

Grant and Judy Reid live in Arrowtown and are responsible for the Mobility Dogs Southern Lakes District (SLD) puppy-raising club. Typically there are 4- 5 puppies being raised by families in this district.  The commitment that both Grant and Judy have shown to Mobility Dogs is immense and the Trust is hugely appreciative of their ongoing dedicated service.  Their efforts have enabled us to establish a satellite to our service in the South Island.

SLD puppy-raisers Eric and Kim aboard the 'Million Dollar'

Judy & ambassadog Fleur, Grant & Merlin down by the Arrow riverside

Both Judy and Grant come from a background of teaching; Judy as an English instructor and Grant as a university lecturer. Their canine experience started in Colorado back in the year 2000, raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. After relocating to New Zealand in 2007, they became involved with the Mobility Assistance Dogs Trust, raising puppies and organising local public relations events.

Grant & Merlin, ever watchful for millions of $s, aboard 'Million Dollar'

Judy & ambassadog Fleur with, a very chilled out, Merlin at Fox Glacier

Grant has completed a certificate as a Service Dog Instructor from the Bergin University of Canine Studies in California.  Two of Grant's Mobility Dogs puppies - Emmit and Jasper - are now working.  Apricot poodle, Fleur, has remained with Grant & Judy in the role of Southern Lakes District ambassadog.

Grant & Judy'a first Mobility Dogs puppy Emmit with David

Grant & Judy's fourth puppy Jasper recently placed with Susan

Grant has successfully placed two Mobility Dogs in the South Island: Rusty with Paul in Invercargill and very recently Ice with Leigh in Christchurch.

Paul & Rusty (and 'old' Mobility Dogs service jacket)

First team in 2012 - Leigh & Ice

Grant is presently puppy-raising Merlin, and overseeing the development of Meg and Maya.

For more information about SLD puppy club, and photos of our beautiful dogs amdist spectacular southern scenery, read the SLD Journal