A WOULD-BE guide dog has become the faithful companion of a North Berwick teenager.

A year ago, Labrador/golden retriever cross Zahra found a home with 14-year-old Charlie Kay and his family in North Berwick.

Zahra was given to the family by Guide Dogs Scotland as a ‘buddy dog’ for Charlie, who has cerebral palsy as well as a visual processing disorder.

Buddy dogs are friendly, well-behaved pet dogs who help children with visual difficulties to increase physical activity, build confidence, improve relationship building and develop a sense of fun and trust.

Melanie, Charlie’s mum, said that Zahra’s arrival had already made a huge difference to her son’s well-being.

She explained: “Like other teenagers, Charlie can struggle with his confidence and expressing his troubles and concerns, but he can chat to Zahra and air his worries and she will just listen.

“Cuddling and petting Zahra can help relax Charlie. Zahra is a companion to him and boosts his confidence.

“She has a basket in Charlie’s room and sleeps in there at night. This makes him feel important and increases their bond.”

Zahra has offered comfort for Charlie during troubling times.

In May, Charlie underwent a major operation on his foot and ankle, but Zahra was by his side throughout his recovery.

Melanie added: “The operation saw him off his feet for eight weeks.

“During the first few weeks, Charlie was mainly in his bed with his legs elevated in plaster.

“Zahra was a great companion to Charlie during this time and would often lie with her chin on his plaster and sleep.”

Charlie shared his adoration for his friendly pup.

He said: “Zahra looks like she smiles when she sees you. The corners of her mouth turn up and she wags her tail. We know she is really happy when she does this.

“She is so fluffy and cuddly and she loves me rubbing her tummy.”

Melanie also believes Zahra is helping Charlie learn some essential life lessons and responsibility, as he helps to feed, walk and brush Zahra.

Everyone in Melanie’s family benefits from the playful pet.

Melanie added: “My daughter Meredith, who is nine years old, is a fabulous little sister and has always helped her brother live life to the full. She has also developed a strong bond with Zahra and I know this helps to ease any burdens or worries she may have.

“Although Zahra was a buddy dog for Charlie, as a family we have all benefitted from her, so believe she is more of a family buddy dog – bringing us all closer together.”

Buddy dogs are one of the services Guide Dogs offers to support children with sight loss.

To find out more, visit www.guidedogs.org.uk