- Edwina & Bella
- Roberta & Ella
- Rachel & Dolly
- Kaitlin & Giselle
- Bradley & Jaxx
- Felicity & Major
- Henrie & Simba
- Lynette & Wayde
Subiaco Arts Centre buzzed with activity on the evening of Thursday 20 June 2019 as dogs were reunited with their Puppy Raisers and Boarders. Handlers were able to meet the Sponsors who supported their dog throughout each stage of training. Matthew Dwyer, of Freo Photos held a photocall and Handlers, Sponsors and Boarders got some fantastic group photos with their dog.
Volunteers, Puppy Pals, Arnold Cook Society Members, Community Fundraisers, Corporate Partners and other Guide Dogs WA supporters all came together to share in the stories of each partnership and celebrate their success.
Puppy Raising Coordinator, Leonora Flower gave an insight into the lives of the dogs at each stage of their journey. She explained the journey from puppyhood to early training and formal training to being matched to a vision-impaired Handler in the final stage.
The Handlers expressed thanks to everyone involved and spoke of some of the challenges they faced. They went on to share how life has changed, along with some light-hearted moments, since being matched to their dog.
The evening was opened by Debra Barnes, Acting Chief Executive Officer and each handler was presented with a clay plaque by Chair of VisAbility Board, Debbie Schaffer, OAM. The symbolic plaque featured a pawprint and handprint of each partnership and was inspired by the Noongar word, “Babbingur” which describes a loyal, devoted friendship.
Each Sponsor, Puppy Raiser and Boarder were presented with a framed photograph of the dog they supported.
One guest said:
“EPIC, that was unbelievable, what a night! Hillary and I were over the moon. A grand night, WOW. Thank you for the invitation and giving me another insight into what Guide Dogs do in our Community.”
Please contact us if you are interested in getting involved with any aspect of the Guide Dog Program including puppy raising or dog boarding or giving a monthly donation to support the pups and dogs in training. Or, you may like to consider giving a gift in your will.
