Guide Dog Services

I had the fun privilege of a private tour through the Guide Dog Services facility in Homai (Auckland, New Zealand) last week.
It's great to see how many pups they have; only 7 weeks old and soooooo cute. They are in desperate need of Puppy Walkers though - these are the awesome people that look after a puppy in their own home from when they're about 7 weeks until they are 1 year old and ready to go in to full time guide dog training. It may sound sad to have to give up your dog after 1 year but it really is ideal I imagine, for some people. These dogs put on their red coat & they can go anywhere with you from restaurants to buses. No one is legally allowed to deny your dog entrance in to where you are going. What it means, is that you get yourself a super cute, temporary pet who can't cramp your style! If that is a concern for you.. Unfortunately, only 2/3 of all dogs that go in to training actually work out to be of a suitable temperament etc and continue on to find a handler. So, it means there is still a chance your dog will be offered back to you as a pet!
It costs approximately NZD$22,500 to fund one guide dog from breeding right through to being a guide. They don't receive any government funding so if you can donate some $ it's definitely a worthy cause! For more info on donating or becoming a Puppy Walker & gaining a furry buddy click here.