A former guide dog, Connie, will celebrate this Mother’s Day surrounded by four generations of her family after recently becoming a great-grandmother. At 13 years old, Connie has produced four litters before retiring from Guide Dogs’ breeding program in 2017. Six of her children continue to work as guide dogs, and her grandchildren are either training or serving as breeding parents.
Connie’s granddaughter, Coco, gave birth to eight puppies in February, marking Connie’s first great-grandchild. Connie now shares her home in Stratford-upon-Avon with her daughter Sophie, seven, and Coco, two, as well as the new puppies.
Linda Atkins, a Guide Dogs breeding dog volunteer who has cared for Connie and her descendants since 2012, calls Connie the “queen of the household.” Despite being older and graying, Connie still enjoys playing with the puppies. She shares how rewarding it is to see the puppies grow, knowing that each has the potential to become a guide dog.
With 24 children and 17 grandchildren, Connie has left an enduring legacy. Connie’s excellent genetics and care have made her a cherished figure at Guide Dogs, with her offspring playing a vital role in assisting blind and partially-sighted individuals. This Mother’s Day will be especially meaningful for Connie’s family, as they celebrate four generations under one roof.
Janine Dixon, breeding and welfare operations lead at Guide Dogs, praised Connie’s longevity and impact, saying, “We have such reverence for this esteemed older lady. Every guide dog is given the best start in life when they have a mum – or indeed, great-grandmother – like Connie.”
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