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More People Paired with Life-Changing Companions
This year, Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs is celebrating a record number of graduates—the fifth consecutive year of record numbers! This means more people who are blind or have low vision will be paired with a highly trained dog to help them navigate the world.
Each year, over 200 puppies begin the rigorous training program. For the graduating class of 2025, 43 dogs from across the country have successfully completed their training and have been matched with their new handlers.
More Than Just a Guide: A Special Bond
As Lester Chraim, Seeing Eye Dogs Client Services Manager, explains, these dogs offer more than just mobility.
"The companionship between a Seeing Eye Dog and their handler is truly special," he says.
These incredible animals empower their handlers to live more independently, whether it's going to the shops, meeting friends, or attending appointments.
Lester also notes that the increasing number of graduates has helped to significantly reduce wait times. On average, a client can now be matched with a dog in as little as four months.
Building Connections Within the Community
Beyond the one-on-one bond, getting a Seeing Eye Dog also helps people connect with a wider network. "Once our clients receive a Seeing Eye Dog, we can connect them with others in the blind and low vision community who share similar experiences," Lester adds.
How You Can Help
It takes $50,000 and nearly two years to train each Seeing Eye Dog. This investment in time and resources is crucial for creating these life-changing partnerships.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about being matched with a Seeing Eye Dog, visit sed.visionaustralia.org.
Lester also notes that the increasing number of graduates has helped to significantly reduce wait times. On average, a client can now be matched with a dog in as little as four months.
Building Connections Within the Community
Beyond the one-on-one bond, getting a Seeing Eye Dog also helps people connect with a wider network. "Once our clients receive a Seeing Eye Dog, we can connect them with others in the blind and low vision community who share similar experiences," Lester adds.
How You Can Help
It takes $50,000 and nearly two years to train each Seeing Eye Dog. This investment in time and resources is crucial for creating these life-changing partnerships.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about being matched with a Seeing Eye Dog, visit sed.visionaustralia.org.
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