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Prince Harry visits Canine Partners
13th July 2010
Prince Harry met with disabled servicemen today whose lives have been transformed through the use of specially trained dogs.
The Prince met with supporters and families who rely on the Canine Partners National Trust Centre in Midhurst, West Sussex, which was formed 20 years ago and assists people with disabilities to enjoy a greater independence and quality of life.
The first disabled serviceman to receive a canine carer told The Prince how his life has been dramatically transformed by his four-legged helper.
Prince Harry met with 31-year-old Petty Officer Steve Brookes and his wife Nichola and their two daughters five-year-old Grace and Emily, two. They have been living with the assistant of a canine helper, a one-year-old black Labrador aptly named Major for six weeks.
Steve, who told The Prince how his life has been made easier, said: “I've got my independence back, now I can go out to the shops without my wife or carer. Major will pick up items for me then he will take my wallet out of my bag give it to the cashier then put it back in my bag.”
A spokesman for Canine Partners said: “The dogs are matched to each person’s needs and lifestyle, and are trained to help with everyday tasks such as opening and shutting doors, unloading the washing machine, picking up dropped items, pressing buttons and switches and getting help in an emergency.
“The charity aims to train dogs to meet the needs of people with even the most complex disabilities including members of the Armed Forces,” he added.
The Prince, who is a supporter of the Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes also spent some time playing with the puppies which are currently being trained at the centre.
Prince William and Prince Harry are also founders of The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry, which was set up in September 2009 as the main vehicle for their numerous charity activities, with one of its main focus areas being the Armed Forces.
Read more about The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry
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