On Tuesday, 25th July 2023 I headed to Glossodia (about 2.5 hours each way) as I was selected to represent Canon at a special behind the scenes event at Guide Dogs Australia. The event was to show the National Partners of Guide Dogs behind the scenes of what happens at the centre.
It was so interesting to hear about what goes into training the guide dogs. We got to see a demonstration of how the dogs are trained to guide their handler around any obstacles that they come across. These dogs are so incredibly smart, and the work the trainers do is also incredible!
We got to see some adorable 8 week old puppies that are being prepared for their future with Guide Dogs Australia. These puppies were in the enrichment area. The enrichment area included things like small steps so that the puppies learn to go up and down steps from a young age. A mirror so they learn what their own reflection is. A mini 'car wash' so when the puppies go through it they get used to feeling something on their back, which is where the guide dog handle and harness will sit in the future. As well as many other enrichment activities and toys for the puppies.
Guide Dogs have also just finished their new bathing area for the dogs too. Whilst I was there, I got to see one of the dogs getting a bath in the new area! They also had some ambassador dogs there. These were the dogs that we could interact with as they were not on duty. The ambassador dog pictured below is a black Labrador named Venus. She was so gorgeous!
We also got a tour of the vet clinic, done some photos of the ambassador dogs with the partners of Guide dogs and listened to a panel of Guide Dogs staff members talk about the work that they do and they answered any questions the audience had.
It was such a great experience to be a part of. Guide Dogs is such a great organisation that helps so many people! I had the best time photographing the event & learnt so much too!
Thank you to Canon Australia for sending me and thank you to Guide Dogs for having me!
