On February 18, seven puppies aged between six months and just over a year explored the terminal at Southampton Airport, where they practiced boarding a Loganair aircraft and settling calmly inside.
The visit was designed to help the puppies become comfortable in busy, noisy environments they may encounter as working guide dogs.
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The puppies practising settling at the departure gate. (Image: Guide Dogs)
Leanne Kelly, puppy development advisor for Guide Dogs in Southampton, said: “A big part of this is socialisation and getting the puppies used to different environments, so visiting Southampton Airport was great experience for them.
“All the puppies did brilliantly, helping them build positive associations with airports that they’ll remember if they visit as working guide dogs.”
Maurice Boyle, operations director at Southampton Airport, said: “We were delighted to welcome Guide Dogs to the terminal and their volunteer puppy raisers.”