Business owner celebrates sponsored guide dog's graduation
A Waterlooville business owner is celebrating after the guide dog puppy he sponsored has officially qualified and begun to transform a visually impaired person’s life.
Rob Cunningham, who runs oven cleaning service Ovenu Petersfield, has marked the graduation of Ralph, a Golden Retriever–Labrador cross he supported throughout his training programme.
After more than 18 months, Ralph has successfully graduated and has now been matched with a visually impaired owner, helping them to live more independently and confidently.
Once a lively puppy, Ralph has matured into a calm and focused guide dog, forming a strong bond with his new owner.
Rob, who lives in Waterlooville, said: “I’m really pleased to hear Ralph is now a fully trained guide dog. It’s great to know he’s out there making a real difference to someone’s life, helping them live more independently and confidently. Supporting Guide Dogs is a fantastic way to give something back, and I’m proud to have played a part in his journey.”
Ralph’s trainer, Leonie, who supported him through the final stages of his development and matched him with his new owner, said the partnership was already making a big impact.
She added: “Ralph has already had a massive impact on his new owner’s life. They’ve bonded beautifully and are forming a strong partnership built on trust and teamwork.”
Ovenu franchisees began sponsoring Ralph through Guide Dogs’ ‘Name a Puppy’ scheme after their first sponsored pup, Selsey, was forced to retire early due to a minor health issue. Determined to continue supporting the charity, they named their next puppy Ralph in honour of Ovenu founder Rik Hellewell’s late grandfather, who lost his sight.
A spokesperson for Guide Dogs said: “Such generous support has made a real difference – not just to Ralph’s journey, but now also to the person whose life he’s helping transform.”
Rob launched Ovenu Petersfield in early 2021 after a spell in hospital recovering from Covid-19. Before starting his own business, he spent 37 years working as a baker, developing sweet treats for major high street names including Starbucks, Pret A Manger and Costa.
Ovenu Petersfield covers the GU30 to GU33 postcodes as well as PO7 and PO8, serving communities including Petersfield, the Meon Valley, Waterlooville, Purbrook, Denmead and Liphook.