Golden Heart: Jennie the Guide Dog Charms Parliament Amidst Traumatic Recovery

Introducing Jennie the guide dog – the latest beloved addition to parliament

In her debut week at the Commons, Jennie the golden retriever has captured hearts while assisting newcomer MP Steve Darling. Despite enduring an attack by an XL bully last year, he describes her as a cheerful and welcome presence on his team.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Monday, July 15, 2024, 3:

Larry, the celebrated cat of Downing Street, known for his rodent-catching prowess, now faces a challenge from the latest feline addition at the Commons.

Jennie, a golden retriever with a quarter Labrador lineage, has quickly gained fame in the early days of the newly convened parliament.

Guide dog Jennie, belonging to newly elected Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling, who is visually impaired, made her first appearance in the Commons last week.

She was observed calmly resting near the front benches while MPs convened in the chamber to select the Speaker for the first time.

As Mr. Darling, the ex-chief of Torbay council, took his oath as the MP for Torbay on Wednesday, he was softly encouraging her with the words, "stay there, good girl."

Her X profile (@rthonjennie) was just created on Wednesday, and it has already amassed close to 16,000 followers.

She's just shy of matching Larry's impressive 890,000 followers, though he does have the advantage of a 13-year head start.

Further Updates on Fauna

Edinburgh Zoo Chimpanzee Rejoins Group Post Surgery for Testicular Injury After Fatal Conflict

Chimpanzee at Edinburgh Zoo passes away following serious injuries from group altercation

The Moffat Six: Canines Saved Following Deadly Sheep Incident Reunite with Heroes as They Search for Permanent Homes

Associated Subjects:

Jennie, aged four, is the first guide dog for the Member of Parliament who lost his sight at age 18. She has been assisting him for the past two years.

Mr. Darling informed Sky News, "My colleagues are jestingly referring to Jennie as the Liberal Democrats' 73rd member, which is quite amusing."

"She serves as a connector to individuals from different political groups – everyone has been extremely friendly and receptive towards her.

A member of the Labour Party approached Jennie requesting a selfie, which was quite encouraging.

"Even the heavily armed officers in the legislature soften and look affectionate as Jennie passes."

For an enhanced video experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey has discussed the imperative of restoring faith among voters, emphasizing that it is the utmost priority.

"Reestablishing faith in political processes is crucial within our community, and I am optimistic that Jennie will contribute positively to this effort."

Learn more: Training for 300 new MPs ahead of their roles. Starmer commends the most diverse parliament in inaugural address as Prime Minister.

Jennie is the second guide dog to accompany her owner in the Commons, following in the paw prints of Lord Blunkett's guide dog, who was a familiar presence during his tenure as an MP from 1987 to 2015

Lord Blunkett has offered Mr. Darling guidance on managing a guide dog in parliament, where the MP notes that everyone has been quite supportive.

Jennie enjoys leaning her chin on the knees of people, however, she's become scared of brachycephalic dogs due to a traumatic incident last year involving an attack by an American XL bully, a breed that has since been prohibited.

While she was on the campaign trail with Mr. Darling, a dog broke loose from its owner’s residence and assaulted her.

"Even though it wasn't fully mature, it required four of us to remove it from Jennie," Mr. Darling stated.

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

That shriek from her is something I wish to never hear again, yet it's etched in my memory forever.

"The wound resembled that of a shark attack. It was ghastly; yet, even as she bled profusely and we awaited emergency assistance, she continued to raise her paw to children.

"She has developed a fear of brachycephalic dogs, and she tends to avoid them now. Despite the potential for this to have a negative impact on her, she remains cheerful and resilient, which I'm grateful for."

Stay informed with the most recent developments from the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information About Sky News

Services Offered by Sky News

Sky Network Channels

Additional Sky Websites