Guide dogs provide companionship and greater independence for the blind or vision-impaired. Photo: Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs.
This International Guide Dog Day, Wednesday, 30 April, a group of Seeing Eye Dogs and their handlers will come together to recognise and appreciate the vital work of the canine companions.
The event, held annually, will fall on the 65th anniversary of the establishment of Seeing Eye Dogs, formerly known as the Lady Nell Seeing Eye Dog School.
Seeing Eye Dogs mobility instructor Matt Wood said the combined day of celebration was a great reminder of the crucial work that guide dogs did for their owners.
“Seeing Eye Dogs equip our clients who are blind or have low vision with greater independence, increased confidence, safety, ease of mobility and even travel,” Mr Wood said.
”These are things that they’ve been able to regain since their vision loss diagnosis.
“Our program has evolved over time, including the world-class training that we provide for the dogs. The Seeing Eye Dogs in our program are more than just physical guides, they also provide companionship for our clients and emotional support.
“Our program continues to grow; we have nearly 250 active handlers in Australia, which is the most we’ve ever had at one time. As the number of Australians with blindness and low vision are predicted to grow to over half a million by 2030, the need for Seeing Eye Dogs is greater than ever.”
The celebration of the dogs’ work will be held from 11 am to noon at Vision Australia Perth, 148 Railway Parade, Leederville. It will include training demonstrations, a Wall of Fame with photographs of Seeing Eye Dogs, and an interview with handler Dr Geraldine Lane.
