View this release online at Newsboost

View this release online at Newsboost

Guide Dog Puppies Need Your Help

The Blind Foundation urgently needs volunteers to help collect during the Red Puppy Appeal street collection on March 27 and 28.

The annual appeal raises funds for the breeding and training of guide dogs.

Guide dogs give people who are blind or have low vision the freedom and confidence to live an independent life. That means being able to carry out day-to-day tasks such as catching the bus, crossing the road and going to work.

Blind Foundation spokesperson, Alison Wheatley, says guide dog puppies go through two years of rigorous training before they graduate. Once assigned, their working life averages between eight and 10 years.

Some of this year’s graduates will go to people who haven’t had a guide dog before while others will replace retiring guide dogs.

“We don’t charge people to receive a guide dog – all the costs for breeding and training are met by public donations. That’s why the Red Puppy Appeal is so important,” says Wheatley.

“The continued generous support of the New Zealand public enables our puppies to succeed in their vital work.”

“Just a few hours of your time could help make a world of difference to someone is who is blind or have low vision,” she says.

To sign up as volunteer for the Red Puppy Appeal visit redpuppy.org.nz or phone 0800 120 254.

ENDS

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