A dedicated dog lover from South Yorkshire has received a prestigious national award for his vital role in helping to train puppies that transform the lives of autistic children.
A Lifetime of Care Recognised
Trevor Mountford, aged 66 from the Town Fields area of Doncaster, was named Puppy Socialiser of the Year at the Support Dogs charity's annual Graduation and Awards ceremony. The event was held earlier this week at the Sandman Signature Sheffield Quays Hotel.
The retired business coach, who is currently caring for his fourth puppy for the charity, was recognised for his exceptional patience, understanding, and care. Support Dogs provides and trains specialist assistance dogs for autistic children, as well as adults with epilepsy or physical disabilities.
The Journey of a Puppy Socialiser
Volunteer puppy socialisers like Trevor provide a safe and loving home for the charity's young dogs from the age of around eight weeks until they are 14 months old. During this critical period, they teach basic socialisation skills, setting the foundation for the pup's future training as a life-changing assistance dog.
Trevor has been volunteering with Support Dogs for five years. He successfully raised black Labrador Harry and Fox Red Labrador Zeus from puppies, both of whom graduated from the charity's autism assistance programme. He also stepped in to help train black Lab Mason and is currently socialising a puppy named Gilly.
"I would like to thank Support Dogs for giving me the opportunity," Trevor said upon accepting his award. "I've had a great time and they've all been wonderful dogs."
Transforming Lives, One Puppy at a Time
The awards ceremony also celebrated the 'Class of '25' – the latest successful partnerships between assistance dogs and their new owners. For Trevor, the highlight was hearing directly from a young person about how a Support Dog had changed their life.
"I've had three go on to be autism assistance dogs, which feels absolutely wonderful," he said. His award now has pride of place on his mantelpiece.
Trevor's involvement began after he considered getting a dog himself. Learning about Support Dogs' need for volunteers felt like the perfect fit, despite a delay caused by the Covid pandemic. He hasn't looked back since taking on his first puppy, Harry.
To find out more about volunteering or supporting Support Dogs, you can visit their website at www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 261 7800.
