It’s International Guide Dog Day! Here's why it's celebrated...

Did you know that the last Wednesday of April each year is International Guide Dog Day?

Commemorated on 24 April this year, the special day highlights the amazing work the guide dogs do for thousands, if not millions of people around the world every day.

But what exactly is a guide dog?

Nadia Sands, Head of Marketing at SA Guide Dogs Association for the Blind, says guide dogs are specially trained to provide support to people living with a disability, giving them the freedom to live their lives and fulfil their dreams.

“Ask any of our clients what their dog means to them, and they will say companionship and freedom.”

Nadia Sands, Head of Marketing – SA Guide Dogs Association

While the non-profit is based in Johannesburg, their services and pups extend countrywide. 

In fact, this year, the organisation celebrates 71 years of changing lives.

SA Guide Dogs only breeds and trains Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Retriever cross breeds for its extensive programme. 

“These dogs have the best temperament and intelligence level to succeed on the programme, [and] it takes around two years [of training] until a dog qualifies.”

Nadia Sands, Head of Marketing – SA Guide Dogs Association

The owner and dog are referred to as a ‘unit’.

“The dog is an extension of that person, and it is imperative that they are allowed to work together without any interruptions.”

Nadia Sands, Head of Marketing – SA Guide Dogs Association

It is important for more people to understand the pivotal role guide dogs play in allowing them to work without any interruptions.

SA Guide Dogs is solely reliant on public donations and fundraising, so show your support by getting involved.

Visit their website www.guidedog.org.za for more or contact Nadia Sands via email, nadiav@guidedog.org.za

If you, or anyone you know, would like to find out more about acquiring a guide dog, you can contact the SA Guide Dogs on 011 705 3512 or email MandlaN@guidedog.org.za