A dog’s life in Carrigallen

When Grace McIntyre first applied for an assistance dog trained by Irish Dogs for the Disabled in late 2022, she was told they had a waiting list of five years.

Much to her and her family’s surprise, her assistance dog, Mozart, was home in Leitrim with them at the end of April 2023. The Carrigallen Vocational School community was excited that Mozart would be starting school the following September.

Mozart first arrived in Carrigallen as Grace started Transition Year. Initially there was much excitement among students and staff alike.

Teachers explained to the students that, while Mozart was wearing his harness he was working, and should not be distracted by pupils trying to pet or speak to him.

Eventually, people got used to his calming presence in the classroom. Everyone was amazed watching Mozart pick up pens or any items that Grace had dropped, and pull off her cardigan.

At break times, Mozart is let off duty and loves giving cuddles to everyone.

Other ways in which Mozart has improved Grace’s life include giving her confidence and independence and acting as a conversation starter. He accompanies Grace everywhere, including to hospital appointments, restaurants, shops, school, museums, on public transport; anywhere she goes. He has also accompanied Grace on school trips, both day trips and even overnight trips.

Dogs for the Disabled are a not-for-profit organisation that train assistance dogs to the highest of standards.

The charity was established in 2007 by Jennifer Dowler, as she recognised the growing need for this kind of support.

Grace has been involved in fundraising for the charity since January 2024, when they purchased a derelict mansion outside Cork city, which they plan to renovate into their brand-new HQ.

They plan to build on-site accommodation for clients to stay during their week of training with their assistance dog. Any donations would be greatly appreciated.

Grace is now going a step beyond fundraising and is visiting schools across County Leitrim to give talks about her experience of having an assistance dog and fundraising for Dogs For the Disabled.

Hailing from Aughavas in Co Leitrim, Grace hopes to bring Mozart to Cavan schools too.

If you would like Grace and Mozart to give a talk to your school, you can email her at graceandmozart2023@gmail.com or you can find her on instagram @adventuresof_graceandmozart where she chronicles life as a wheelchair user with her loving assistance dog by her side.

Donations can be made by searching ‘Grace and Mozart for Dogs For The Disabled’ online at idonate.ie

* Story by Áine O’Reilly and Grace McIntyre