Blue Peter pets first "Blue Peter" dog whose death was not mentioned on the programme. Barney is believed to be an Irish Setter/Dachshund cross and officially joined the "Blue Peter" team on 22 September 2009. He is the show's ninth dog. Barney is a former stray and was given to presenter Helen Skelton by the Dogs Trust. Barney left the show along with his owner Helen on 26 September 2013. The programme has had a long association with guide dogs, which stretches back to 1964 – captivating millions of viewers and helping to transform the lives of thousands of visually impaired people. The
Blue Peter subsequently purchased and installed at Sunderland University's David Puttnam Media Centre in August 2013. When the new series started on 26 September 2011, after the usual summer break, Harwood and Skelton revealed the new look "Blue Peter" studio along with the new music and title sequence. Departed presenter Andy Akinwolere was not initially replaced, and for the first time in 50 years only two presenters remained on the programme. The new "Blue Peter" Garden, located outside the studios, was officially opened by Princess Anne in February 2012. From 12 January 2012, "Blue Peter" has been broadcast all year round (with