It takes nearly two years to train a puppy to be a Guide Dog. and about $30,000.
The service is free to the blind and vision impaired but is dependent on public donations.
Sadly, there is no proper government funding for guide dogs.
In Australia dogs start at about eight weeks old. They are mostly pure bred Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Labrador/Golden Retriever crosses because these breeds are calm, loyal and intelligent and have a proven good record as Guide Dogs.
They are checked out by vets and placed with specially selected families for 12 months to learn basic social skills and obedience. They visit places they'll later go to as Guide Dogs and experience sights, sounds and smells.
At about 14 months they are returned to the Guide Dog centre for two weeks of stringent assessment. Puppies that are not acceptable may become Pets as Therapy Dogs.
Those selected as Guide Dogs for the Blind undergo a further tough five-month course to learn the complex skills required.
Those dogs that qualify represent the highest possible standard of training and a new lease on life for blind persons.
It's a worthy cause and proof of how animals as our fellow beings can help us in life. They do their job with unquestionable love and devotion. I have deep love and respect for them and for those who train them.
So wherever you live in the world please give support to Guide Dogs for the Blind.
