A brand new cohort of Seeing Eye Dogs has graduated school and is ready to take up the life-changing mantle.
On Wednesday 18 September, 42 Seeing Eye Dogs and their handlers from across Australia attended Vision Australia’s annual graduation ceremony.
They have been put through rigorous training to ensure they are prepared for life as a Seeing Eye Dog, at the side of someone who is blind or has low vision.
According to Seeing Eye Dogs client services manager Lester Chraim, this year’s ceremony honoured the life-changing connections that have been forged between each Seeing Eye Dog and their handler.
“A Seeing Eye Dog can dramatically change the life of someone who is blind or has low vision. Not only can they increase their independence, but they can also reduce barriers to employment, travel and community participation through enhanced mobility,” Lester said.
“Our dogs undertake complex and specialised training to ensure the safety and mobility of their handlers. This ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate them, as well as everyone who has contributed to the program.”
NDIS Minister Bill Shorten attended the ceremony and recognised the importance of Seeing Eye Dogs to those that need them.
“Seeing Eye Dogs are more than just companions; they are a vital support and deserve to be recognised as such,” he said.
“The Commonwealth Government remains entirely committed to working with Vision Australia to ensure people who are eligible for an assistance animal can get one in a straightforward and timely way and that the growing demand for vision support services across the state continues to be met”.
There are currently 10,309 Australians who are blind or are low vision impaired on the NDIS. Since 2016 the NDIS has funded about 2,759 assistance animals.
“We know the National Disability Insurance Scheme is changing the lives of participants and their loved ones, and for many participants across Australia, this includes the support of Seeing Eye Dogs,” Shorten added.
“Seeing Eye Dogs are more than just companions; they are a vital support and deserve to be recognised as such.
“The Commonwealth Government remains entirely committed to working with Vision Australia to ensure people who are eligible for an assistance animal can get one in a straightforward and timely way and that the growing demand for vision support services across the state continues to be met.”