When Vision Australia merged with Seeing Eye Dogs Australia a year ago, they welcomed a new breed of volunteer — the puppy carer!
These canine-friendly helpers give round-the-clock service by providing loving homes for the puppies that go on to train to be Seeing Eye Dogs.
Dennis and Gail Rowatt had wanted to become puppy carers for many years. It wasn’t until their beloved family pet passed away last year that they decided the time was right.
The couple from Bokarina on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast began caring for Gary the pup in January and have since been steadily training the black labrador in preparation for his formal “studies” with Vision Australia’s Seeing Eye Dogs, Orientation & Mobility division.
“We wanted to do something for the community and we’re dog lovers,” Dennis said soon after Gary’s arrival. “This gives you the flexibility and you’re not tied down for another 14 years.”
Dennis’s main responsibility as a trainer is to familiarise the pup with a range of environments. Gary sits under his desk as he works from home, accompanies him to medical appointments and sits beside him in restaurants.
“I’ve also taken him to the airport to get him used to the noise and public transport,” says Dennis.
“The first few months you’ve got to imprint in their minds what’s right and wrong.”
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