Special Day celebrates life-changing dogs
Landmarks will light up orange and canines will showcase their skills to recognise the transformative impact of Guide and Assistance Dogs for International Guide Dog Day on Wednesday, 29 April.
The annual global event celebrates the vital role these specially trained dogs play in enhancing independence and quality of life for people living with low or no vision, disability, or other life challenges.
In Perth, Murray Street Mall will be abuzz with dogs and the orange army of people who train and support them. Members of the public can meet Ambassador Dogs and puppies-in-training, and chat with staff and volunteers to gain insights into the fascinating world of Guide and Assistance dogs.
The evening will see the Bell Tower, Council House and a number of landmark bridges blazing orange in honour of the clever canines and communities behind them. A sold-out Guide Dog trivia night at the Camfield in Burswood will also kick off proceedings the night before.
In regional WA, Busselton Central Shopping Centre will be graced by an Ambassador Dog and adorable puppy walk-throughs to drum up community awareness and support. Further north, Port Headland Overpass will light up orange for the special celebration.
Guide Dogs WA Chief Executive Anna Presser highlighted the organisation’s vital work.
“The impact our dogs have on peoples’ lives is nothing short of incredible,” Ms Presser said.
“These dogs provide independence, mobility, confidence, inclusion and social connection. They really are life-changing gifts that aren’t possible without generous donations and volunteer support.”
“Whether it’s by volunteering with the training program or just popping spare change into an iconic collection dog at the shops, there are so many ways people can get involved.”
“If you can’t make it to the event, you can still get involved by making an online donation; or even do your own fundraising for International Guide Dog Day with our ready-made resources, all available on our website.”
At the end of this year Guide Dogs WA celebrates 75-years of providing support to West Australians, honouring a legacy that began when the first Guide Dog school in the country was established in Perth in 1951.
Guide Dogs WA currently has more than 250 dogs in its program, either providing support in the community or in-training.
It typically takes two-years and extensive resources to breed, raise and train one Guide or Assistance dog. Community donations, a legion of passionate volunteers, plus State Government support for the local breeding program, make this journey possible.
Members of the public are encouraged to come along and donate via Tap & Go, buy merchandise and learn more about how they can support Guide Dogs WA. Those unable to attend can still get involved by fundraising for International Guide Dog Day or making an online donation at Donate Now – Guide Dogs WA
