There was a time when the only service dogs were for the blind or visually impaired. Now there are dog guides to help people who are hard of hearing, physically disabled, prone to seizures, autistic, or diabetic. The needs are diverse, but funding is limited, so getting a trained dog isn't always easy. That's why the Walk for Dog Guides is looking for more support, ahead of their weekend fundraiser.
Event organizer Ashley Snow, and Sandy Fewkes, who relies on a dog guide for help came down to talk about the what goes into the training of these great animals, and why it's such a great cause. "The whole program is incredible," said organizer Ashley Snow, "It's amazing how it impacts real people's lives and how they do it at no cost to these Canadians that need it."
"Well she gets me out of bed in the morning," said Sandy Fewkes of her dog guide Caydi. Fewkes listed a long series of ways Caydi helps her in a day. "If somebody's behind me I won't hear anything so I will watch her. She's very friendly, so she will start to wag her tail." Fewkes said her dog guide has restored her confidence. "I can go grocery shopping by myself now. I don't need somebody to come with me all the time."
The Lions Club is a core supporter through the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides. For more information check out the website.
The walk starts at 10 a.m. Sunday at Total Pet in Kelowna with registration starting at 9 a.m.
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