Congratulations to puppy raiser Julia Yarker, who was recently presented with a Community Hero Award by Ian Murray MP. 
Julia was chosen for this award for her outstanding contribution to Guide Dogs, helping to change the lives of people with a vision impairment over the last 23 years. 
Guide Dogs’ Puppy Development Advisor, Lynsey Anderson Fell, said: “Julia has been an integral part of our Edinburgh puppy raising scheme for more than two decades and is now on her 22nd puppy, Kristal.
“She has lots of experience but is always willing to try new methods, as training has changed over that time. Julia also supports other puppy raisers to learn and develop, alongside the voluntary work she does in the local community.”
Speaking after receiving the award, Julia added: “I started puppy raising for Guide Dogs in 2003. Life then was quite different with no online training, but monthly classes and meetings with a supervisor.
“Through volunteering with Guide Dogs, I found a group of great people all puppy raising and I’ve made many friends over the years. I have had lots of wonderful pups and lots of great memories of some great characters!”
Thank you to Ian Murray MP for recognising this life-changing contribution, and of course, to Julia herself for 23 fantastic years of giving people with sight loss freedom and independence. 
Become a puppy raiser with Guide Dogs Scotland here: