The special contribution guide dog puppy raisers make to the visually impaired
"The five guide dogs I have had the privilege of working with over the past 30 years have given me independence, mobility and companionship - not to mention the dignity that comes with having a guide dog."
These are the words of Pieter van Niekerk, a visually impaired person and the head of public relations for the South African Guide Dog Association.
“Guide dogs are a priceless gift which enable a visually impaired person to reach for the stars,” said van Niekerk.
“As guide dog owners, we can never thank our puppy raisers enough for their unselfish gift of love to change the quality of our lives – the love, care, commitment and devotion they invest into the pups they raise is sincerely appreciated and admired.
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“They form the characters and personalities of our four-footed companions and put up with the loss and heartache when the pups leave their homes to follow their dreams – to make a difference in the lives of another special person in need.
“Their passion and dedication is amazing, and they will always be welcome to stay in contact with their foster four-footed ‘children’ – they will forever have a special bond with their beloved bundle of joy which is now conquering the world following a very special dream.”
- Read more about puppy raising for the South African Guide Dog Association on page 3 of tomorrow’s Advertiser (dated September 22), under the headline ‘The ‘science’ of raising guide dogs’.
