Vision Australia seeks local volunteers for Seeing Eye Dogs program

Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs, based in Kensington, is calling on locals to help provide temporary homes for dogs in training, following a recent intake into its program.

Each year, more than 200 puppies join the Seeing Eye Dogs program, progressing through formal training before being matched with Australians who are blind or have low vision.

Volunteer training dog carers play a vital role in this process, offering the dogs a loving home environment during their downtime from training.

Carers house the dogs overnight and on weekends for up to six months, giving them comfort, stability, and care as they prepare for their future work.

Seeing Eye Dogs training program manager Kylie Gersh said the role was an opportunity to make a real difference in the community.

This is a fantastic chance to welcome an adorable, mature dog into your home while making a difference for the community, Ms Gersh said.

“All expenses will be covered, including medical costs and food. The main requirement is that carers drop off and pick up the dog from our Kensington training centre on weekdays.”

Ms Gersh said the role suited dog lovers who could manage a larger dog and wanted to be part of a network of like-minded volunteers.

“You’ll join a supportive community and have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve helped someone gain greater independence,” she said.

The organisation is seeking carers in Kensington and surrounding suburbs, as well as in parts of the Central Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Vision Australia is located at 14 Barrett St, Kensington. To find out more or apply, visit: sed.visionaustralia.org/volunteer/training-dog •