'Exceptional' guide dog dies

11:21am Wednesday 19th September 2007

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Less than a fortnight after winning a national competition, guide dog Barley has died of suspected poisoning.

Barley had been guide dog to Surbiton resident Jo Westlake for four years. Not only that, but she had adapted to the arrival of Jo's twin boys Oliver and James and guided them around in their double buggy.

Jo is rather distraught about it all, especially as it happened so soon after her winning the competition. Barley has been a brilliant guide dog to her.”

Beryl James

She was recognised for this achievement in the Guide Dog of the Year Awards on September 7 when she won the exceptional work category.

Jo's mum, Beryl James, said: "Jo is rather distraught about it all, especially as it happened so soon after her winning the competition. Barley has been a brilliant guide dog to her."

Beryl, who nominated Barley for the award, said Jo's boys have just started primary school so Jo is having to ask friends and relatives to help her get them to and from school.

Beryl said: "We don't know for sure yet whether Barley was poisoned but she was having trouble breathing before she died. It is very sad."