Published on: 18/01/21
Photo credit: BBC
Dexter and his family feature in the BBC series 12 puppies and us sharing their experience of living with new puppy Woody as they train him to be a companion dog for Dexter.
Dexter had rehabilitation at The Children’s Trust in 2018. Dexter suffered hypoxia at birth (a lack of oxygen to the brain) and lives with cerebral palsy, needing round the clock care. Mum Gemma explained that while physically Dexter really struggles: “He has a wonderful sense of humour; he’s such a joy to be around.”
Speaking on the programme, Dad Darren explained how the family would like Woody, a St Bernard, to help with assistance tasks, such as picking up Dexter if he falls, picking up his toys and comforting him when he is upset.
Dexter is non-verbal so the family described their need to find other ways for Dexter to communicate with Woody. Gemma said: “Dexter is non-verbal. That’s really difficult. And for us as a family it’s so important that the dog is able to understand the needs of Dexter.”
In the programme, Darren starts training puppy Woody to walk alongside the wheelchair, with Dexter holding the lead.
“I think Dexter will really benefit from having a friend,” said Darren. “It will offer practical and emotional assistance for Dexter as he grows up.”
The programme shows not just the challenge of the intense puppy training – but the rewards too!
You can see Dexter, Woody and the whole family as they train their pup from episode 3 onwards in 12 puppies and us, which is on iplayer for another 11 months.
