Guide Dogs WA
Phil Ledger introduced Anna Presser, Manager of Guide Dog Services WA. Anna was accompanied by Ambassador dog Annie, who charmed everyone in the room.
Anna informed us that Guide Dogs WA is the original home of Guide Dogs in Australia. The first professionally trained and registered Guide Dog, Dreena, was brought to Australia from England in 1950 by Dr. Arnold Cook; a visionary West Australian who also happened to be blind.
Many people ask why a dog to assist the blind instead of a cane. Anna told us that where a cane bumps along in an uncertain manner, a dog gently guides the person enabling more confidence. It takes over two years and costs more than $50,000 to train a Guide or Assistance Dog.
Dogs have been found other uses beyond being guide dogs for the blind. Today they are used a companion dogs, autism assist dogs, therapy dogs and to assist people with dementia. They have come a long way since 1950.
Ambassador Dogs started life training to be a Guide or Assistance Dog, but for various reasons, it was decided these friendly and fun-loving pups had all the important qualities for the Ambassador role. These dogs work day and night representing our organisation in the media and at events.
The challenges today are of funding, establishing a local WA dog breeding program and a shortage of trainers. Guide Dogs WA relies on the support of the community to provide these life changing services to Western Australians living with low vision, disability and illness.
While the State government has promised funding to assist with many factors, including an expanded breeding program, there are many ways that the general public can assist. These include providing a home for puppies and donations. Read more about Guide Dogs WA.