Dogs for the Disabled is a registered charity which trains specially selected dogs to help disabled adults and children maintain their independence and enhance the quality of their lives. By developing their natural pulling and retrieving skills the dogs can be taught a range of practical tasks, such as bringing in the milk, unloading the washing machine, picking up dropped items, fetching the telephone when it rings, switching on lights and opening or closing doors - tasks which people in wheelchairs find difficult or impossible. Some of the dogs are able to help people with balance difficulties to walk. A person with an assistance dog benefits from greater independence, an increased sense of security, renewed confidence, improved health and companionship.