Welcome
Abby and Duke
Dear readers,
My name is Abby Jayasuriya.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce you to this edition of Guide Dog Tales and this edition’s cover star, who is none other than my brilliant and cheeky Guide Dog, Duke!
I have Retinitis Pigmentosa, an eye condition that causes night blindness and tunnel vision. I have been a long-term client of Guide Dogs and recently became one of their Assistive Technology Specialists. It’s been amazing to be able to give back to the low-vision community through my work, which is mainly funded by your generous donations.
Duke and I were matched in October, 2022 and he is my first Guide Dog. He was an instant favourite at home, with his soft elephant ears, huge and sometimes clumsy paws, unwavering dedication and all-knowing eyes. Duke isn’t a fan of playing fetch and seems to think he’s a cat, but he loves playing with his slobbery squeaky toys and being tickled above the tail. He’s very aware that he’s a handsome boy and prances across the yard when he knows we’re going to work, in anticipation of all the love and pats he gets at the office. He is always the star but is also a placid boy with an old soul. Further, he is the most patient male shopping partner a girl could hope to find!
Duke’s handsome face also features in our 2024 calendar, which is available to purchase through this year’s PAWfect presents, you can find a bit more about this later in this edition of Guide Dog Tales.
Thank you for the support that you give to Guide Dogs, without it, our wide range of services would not be as easily accessible. You are truly a champion of independence and are integral in improving quality of life for people with low vision or blindness. I hope you enjoy reading all about the incredible impact your support has made and the amazing work the team are doing.
Lastly, I also want to thank all the people who entered our colouring-in competition from our last edition. We had some beautiful and
creative entries, it was so hard for the team to choose the winners. Pictured below are a few of our favourite entries!
Download more of our colouring-in here.
If you enjoyed our colouring-in competition and would like to colour in some more of our beautiful dogs, please visit our activity pages.
Outdoor adventure camp
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT recently held a youth camp for ten Clients aged 13 to 18 living with low vision or blindness at the Outward Bound Camp in Tharwa, ACT. This camp provided Clients with the opportunity to take part in fun activities like abseiling, hiking, high rope courses and much more.
For five nights, three Orientation and Mobility Specialists and one Occupational Therapist joined the young participants to brave the Canberran cold weather! They slept in bivvys (a tarp pulled taut between two poles) under which the participants and staff slept in sleeping bags under the stars. The participants learnt how to prepare food safely with the use of knife guards and contrasting cutting boards, and took turns to clean up after each other in an outdoor kitchen with headlamps and lanterns.
Participant, Seth, said the camp allowed him to build on his resilience skills, and that learning to put one foot in front of the other is a valuable life skill for when times get tough. He also said that the camp helped to build core fundamental principles for independence.
You can view a video highlighting the outdoor adventure camp here.
A big thank you to the Newman’s Own Foundation for providing funding and some delicious products for the camp.
Pet tips
Keeping your FURiend cool
With spring in the air and the weather warming up, our expert Guide Dog training team wanted to share their 10 tips to keep your dog safe and comfortable and help them beat the heat.
- Walk your dog at cooler times of the day like early mornings or twilight. Always check the temperature of the footpaths, roads and metal plates before walking your dog on them. A good rule is: if you can’t hold your hand on the ground for five seconds, then it’s too hot to walk on!
- Limit your dog’s activity during the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm) and avoid vigorous exercise or energetic play on hot days.
- Change or top up your dog’s water in the bowl frequently.
- If it’s not possible for your dog to be inside, make sure there are plenty of shady spots and access to water. A friend or relative may be able to check on your dog throughout the day.
- Ice blocks are fun to play with outside and can cool down the dog’s water too. (Check out our tip to create the PAWfect PUPsicle).
- Paddle pools are great to play in to cool down (always supervise under-six month-old pups when paddling).
- Lay a damp towel on your tiles for your dog to lie on.
- Promote air circulation in your house using fans – but keep electrical cords away from sharp teeth!
- Freeze water bottles and lay them in your puppy’s bed area so the pup can lean on them.
- Never leave your dog in the car.
Create your own PUPsicle
In summer, our dogs-in-training love ice blocks. Fill up a plastic container, an ice cube tray or a silicone mould with low-sodium stock, kibble, and grated carrot. Not only it will cool them down, but it also keeps them busy and happy!
Training in the warmer months
We care passionately about our dogs and have special practices in place to protect them from the heat in the warmer months.
Some of these practices include, starting work from 6am before it gets too hot and using these days to train on public transport and in indoor shopping centres with air conditioning. We also protect our dogs’ feet from hot pavement with boots and ensure all trainers carry water for regular drink breaks. Our dogs are also groomed regularly so that their heavy under coats are removed.
These are just some of the many ways we protect our trainees in the warmer months, and if the weather is over 32 degrees, we don’t take our dogs out. Instead, they get the day off and often get to enjoy some water play or relax in the air conditioning.
PAWfect presents
Find the PAWfect present
Can you believe it’s that time of the year again? We have this year’s PAWfect gifts ready for you to kick start your Christmas shopping. Your much-loved favourites are back again for you to share some puppy love with your loved ones or spoil yourself!
You can make an order online at nsw.pawfectpresents.com.au or by calling 1800 436 364.
Please place your order before Friday 1 December to receive your delivery before Christmas. Our office will be closed from Friday 23 December 2023 until Monday 8 January 2024. Any orders received during this period will be fulfilled after 8 January.
Every purchase supports our Guide Dog pups in training!
Client spotlight
Ensuring no one misses out on the help they deserve
Five years ago, Noora felt something was wrong. She noticed that her vision was changing, and it deteriorated very quickly. Living with Retinitis Pigmentosa began to limit Noora’s world. Simple tasks like walking her daughter to kindergarten, cooking a meal, or crossing the street to grab a coffee became significant hurdles.
“The two-minute walk to a yoga studio I wanted to go to may as well have been in another universe for me. I was constantly bumping into things and hurting myself. My own home didn’t feel safe sometimes, let alone the outside world.” – Noora
Having reached out to other providers and unable to receive adequate support due to the lack of NDIS funding became frustrating. She then contacted Guide Dogs and within a week had received a response. She met with Orientation & Mobility Instructor, Amy, and things started looking up for Noora.
Before meeting Amy, Noora had barely used the white cane she had. She was unsure of the best way to use it. But with Amy’s help, Noora gained confidence and started venturing out, learning different routes, significantly improving her mental health.
After meeting with Amy, Noora was connected with other specialists at Guide Dogs, such as Assistive Technology Specialists, Occupational Therapists and Orthoptists, who made things easier for her at home. She started cooking again, continued her university degree, joined a gym and found joy in being an independent woman and mother once more.
One of Noora’s favourite activities with her daughter was reading children’s books together. It was a special bonding time where they brought stories to life with fun activities. When her vision deteriorated, she couldn’t do this anymore. Orthoptist Kate assisted Noora with a piece of technology that displayed the books on a screen. She could zoom in and out, change the colours for accessibility, and once again spend that special time with her daughter.
At every step, Guide Dogs has supported Noora to ensure she received the necessary assistance. This is possible thanks to the generous support of people like you. Guide Dogs is largely funded by the generous support of the community and without it we
could not ensure anyone with low vision or blindness can access the services they need to live confidently and independently.
“Guide Dogs opened up my world again, I can get back into my hobbies and continue my university post grad degree. I am so grateful for their support.” – Noora
Gifts in Wills
Step into the heart-warming world of the 'W' litter, where love and legacy intertwine!
The Gifts in Wills team are excited to share that pup parents Lynney and Irving have brought an abundance of cuteness into the Guide Dogs world with the birth of nine puppies. Having had the privilege of naming these adorable pups, we couldn’t be more delighted to introduce you to the wonderful ‘W’ crew: females Willa, Wilma, Wilkie and Willoughby, and males Wilbur, Wilson, Wilfred and Wiley.
What makes this lovable litter even more special is the presence of pup Kelly, who was named in honour of the late Adrian Van De Bunt. As a bequestor and devoted supporter of Guide Dogs, Adrian’s passion for a life without limits for people living with low vision or blindness will continue to shine brightly through Kelly.
Supporters recently had the chance to get an exclusive peek into the lives of the ‘W’ pups at our online Gifts in Wills event during Include a Charity Week. Running in the first week of September every year, this special initiative showcases the lasting impact of leaving a charitable gift in your Will.
The event not only featured the delightful pups, it also gave a glimpse into the remarkable skills of Guide Dog in training, Dixie, along with trainer Katrina. We also featured ‘Behind the Harness’ with Guide Dog Handlers Erin and Mel, who shared their experiences and answered all your burning questions about life with a Guide Dog.
Don’t worry if you missed it; we’ve got all the highlights on the Guide Dogs Australia YouTube channel!
Look out for more updates on Kelly and her siblings’ journey as they depart the nursery and embark on a new chapter, living with one of our fabulous Puppy Raisers for the next 12 months.
Each step Kelly takes is made possible by the generosity of Adrian and his decision to include Guide Dogs in his Will. One in every two Guide Dogs is made possible because of Gifts in Wills, proving that love and compassion can truly change lives.
At Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, your generosity makes magic happen.
If you’re passionate about making a lasting impact for people living with low vision or blindness, consider leaving a Gift in your Will to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. Call Donna on (02) 9412 9339 or email her at doxley@guidedogs.com.au.
Eye Health
What is Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a chronic condition that affects the part of the retina where images from the central vision are focused (the macula).
Damage to this vital part of the retina can result in significant reduction or loss of central vision, although the more peripheral vision typically remains unaffected.
Australian studies estimate that AMD affects approximately one in seven Australians aged over 50, with almost 15% of those above 80 years of age experiencing blindness or vision loss due to AMD.
AMD is characterised by the presence of small yellow deposits (drusen) at the macula. The presence of drusen alone does not cause significant vision loss. AMD may progress, however, resulting in an atrophy (wasting away) of the macula (“dry” AMD) or the growth of new blood vessels which cause an accumulation of fluid at the macula (“wet” AMD). Both dry and wet AMD can cause significant vision loss.
In the early stages, AMD has no visual symptoms and can only be detected via an eye examination. Specialised equipment including retinal cameras and optical coherence tomographers can be used to examine the macula for changes associated with AMD.
Regular at-home monitoring of the vision using an Amsler Grid (below) can also help detect any visual changes between appointments. Any distortion of the grid lines whilst viewing the central dot with one eye only, may be an indication of AMD progression and a prompt appointment with an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist should be arranged.
While the biggest risk factors for AMD progression are age and genetics, general health and lifestyle can also play a significant role. Smoking is a significant risk factor for this condition, and cessation of smoking will help to lower the risk of vision loss. Recent research around diet has also shown that a diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3, Zinc, vitamins C and E, selenium and low GI-carbohydrates is beneficial in significantly reducing the risk of vision loss. Alternatively, appropriate dietary supplements have been shown to have a beneficial effect on reducing disease progression for those that already have AMD.
Need more information?
Your community Optometrist or Ophthalmologist can provide eye examinations and further information on AMD. The Macular Disease Foundation Australia also has a great repository of resources specific to AMD.
Community
Our first Corporate Fundraising Program workshop!
We were thrilled to welcome the team from B. Braun to our St Leonards office recently, where they took part in the first ever Corporate Fundraising Program workshop in NSW! The team learnt all about our important work and also experienced what it is like to live with low vision or blindness by completing a number of activities under blindfold.
The B. Braun team then had the opportunity to meet one of our Clients who shared stories about their journey with Guide Dogs and the impact that their Guide Dog has had on their life.
We’re so appreciative of the B. Braun team for taking part in the Corporate Fundraising Program and for their support through fundraising.
If you would like to learn more about our Corporate Fundraising Program, please contact corporate@guidedogs.com.au.
Sculptures in the Gardens
The Mudgee support group have been volunteering at Sculptures in the Gardens for 12 years. During this time, they have raised over $180,000 for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT!
The exhibition brings together established and emerging sculptors from across Australia to showcase their incredible work. Set amidst the picturesque gardens of Rosby Vineyard in Mudgee, this annual event has been captivating art enthusiasts since October 2011. Starting from humble beginnings of a few hundred attendees, the event now attracts over 4,000 visitors a year and features impressive art works from more than 250 artists.
The Mudgee Support Group supervise the entry fee and parking. They enjoy meeting lovely people who generously contribute not only the $5 entry fee but also raffle tickets and general donations which help raise much needed funds for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
Sculpture in the Gardens will be held Saturday 7th to Sunday 22nd October and the group are looking forward to another successful year in 2023. For more information, check out their website.
Meet the newest Puppy Pals litter
The rascally R litter!
Our little rascals, the R litter have arrived! Ruby, Rori, Rachael, Rose, Rollo, Rio and Ralph are the latest pups to join the gang! These adorable pups are extra special as they are supported by our Puppy Pals who give a monthly gift to Guide Dogs.
The pups were born on 20 August to proud mum Casey-Anne and dad Zeus. Our pups are birthed at a volunteer Home Whelper’s home where our breeding mums live their best life! The volunteers, alongside our staff, support our breeding mums like Casey-Anne, when it comes time to birth their puppies and, in the weeks following, to ensure both mum and pups are safe and well looked after. They get lots of love and attention that sets them up for success when the time comes to head off on their own adventures!
You can help support pups like the R litter on their journey by becoming a Puppy Pal online or by calling our team on 1800 436 364.
Making a difference in Canberra
In May, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT held its annual Canberra Giving Circle luncheon at The Boathouse in Barton, ACT. Each year, this wonderful group of dedicated supporters raises funds for Guide Dogs Clients by collectively pooling gifts to focus on projects and services in the ACT.
This year, long-term Guide Dogs Client Sue-Ellen Lovett joined us to share her incredible story. From her days in the para-Olympics in equestrian dressage, through to her current daily life on the farm and her journey with no less than seven Guide Dogs was very inspiring for everyone. Sue-Ellen travelled with her Guide Dog Woody to the event and he sat patiently by her side throughout her talk, winning over the audience with his impeccable manners.
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is dedicated to growing the reach and impact of the Canberra Giving Circle across the ACT and beyond. The Canberra Giving Circle brings together a community of generous supporters of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, investing in independence, access and inclusion in the ACT. By 2024, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT endeavours to support the growth of the Canberra Giving Circle to 20 members raising $100,000 each year for people with low vision or blindness. If you would like to continue your involvement, learn how you can promote this community, or become a member, we would love to hear from you!
To become a member of the Canberra Giving Circle, we welcome your generous gift of $5,000. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to the Philanthropy Team, Samantha Rosenfels on 0423 958 353.
Puppy Tales
Introducing Pip!
We are so excited to introduce you to a very special puppy, Pip.
In each edition of Guide Dog Tales, we will have a special section to share Pip’s Puppy Tales with you. You’ll get to follow Pip’s adventures with an exciting story or activity for you or a family member to participate in!
In the first eight weeks, Pip and her siblings’ lives are spent with their mum. Mum and pup’s comfort and wellbeing is our highest priority so there’s plenty of rest in those first few weeks.
As the pups start to explore their surroundings, we begin their early puppy development by exposing them to different materials and soft toys. This is how we set up our future Guide Dog pups to get used to the different sounds, smells, and textures that they will come across in the big wide world.
Can you spot the 11 differences in the two scenes below?
Expr3ssing their support for Guide Dogs
Guide Dogs are fortunate to have the support of world class organisations who, through their generosity, enable us to continue to provide our world class Guide Dogs and other life-changing services such as Orientation and Mobility and Assistive Technology.
Expr3ss! Predictive Hiring Technology provide businesses the tools to quickly and cost effectively pinpoint those applicants with the ‘Can Do’ skills, ‘Will Do’ attitudes and that “Fit To” the role, team and culture.
This mirrors the process Guide Dogs adopts when we match our world class Guide Dogs with prospective Handlers. Based on interviews with the Client, we have already reviewed their lifestyle, their goals, their activity levels and even the pace of their gait.
While our dogs are in training, our Guide Dog Trainers will be observing each dog’s attributes and considering what will be the best match. It is a combination of art and science.
“When we learnt about the exacting process that Guide Dogs uses to match people with low vision or blindness with a Guide Dog, we knew that our missions aligned. Our staff love partnering with Guide Dogs and we have the privilege of following the journey of Echo, a puppy who was born within the Guide Dogs extraordinary breeding program and is now working on socialisation and foundation training with their volunteer Puppy Raiser.”
Says Carolyne Burns, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Expr3ss!.
“At the heart of the Expr3ss! – Predictive Hiring Technology ecosystem is the mission of finding applicants jobs they will love and flourish in! Just as Guide Dogs thrive when working in a team to enable their Handler to live with independence.
“While we don’t try to work out the gait of our candidates, we do look at their skills, attitudes and cultural fit. And they are rewarded, not with kibble, like bundles of fluff like Echo, but with a role which meets their needs and goals. This creates engagement, encourages productivity and improves businesses.” Carolyne says.
Just like the work our Guide Dogs do with their Handlers, this is a win win. Our Guide Dogs are rewarded by working as a focussed team, because our dogs truly do love their work, and our Handlers are rewarded with greater freedom.
Our Partners
Thank you to our partners:
Your donations to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT help us to continue our important work, including matching Guide Dogs and Therapy Dogs, Orientation and Mobility services, providing regional outreach, undertaking diagnostic services through our Centre for Eye Health, and delivering technology support sessions and Occupational Therapy to more than 3,500 Clients.
For more information, call 1800 436 364
Ready to continue?
Seems like you have filled this form earlier. Let’s pick up where you left off.
