The Petbarn Foundation and Vision Australia have broken records, exceeding their $1 million fundraising goal for the 10th annual Seeing Eye Dog Appeal.
Thanks to the customers at Ferntree Gully who donated, the Appeal has raised a total of $1.35 million, which will fund the training of 27 Seeing Eye Dogs.
Petbarn Australia give a a big thank you for your support in helping to promote the Appeal, especially to the local community of Ranges Trader Star Mail readers’ who donated.
The Appeal couldn’t have been such a success without you.
With your support Vision Australia can fund the training of 27 Seeing Eye Dog puppies who will go on to change the lives of 27 Aussies who are blind or have low vision.
Petbarn foundation manager Janelle Bloxsom said the additional 27 super Seeing Eye Dogs that will become the number one companion of someone who is blind, will also give the gift of independence for a better quality of life.
“The kindness and dedication of the community has made all the difference for the success of this important appeal,” she said.
This is the 10th anniversary of the partnership between the Petbarn Foundation and Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs, raising $7 Million since 2014.
Exceeding this year’s $1 million target means the Appeal has funded 152 Seeing Eye Dogs over the past 10 years.
Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs CEO Ron Hooton said they are so thankful to every person and every little bit that was donated, especially in these trying times.
“It really shows the power of community.
“It takes a lot to raise a Seeing Eye Dog, $50,000 in fact.
“They require specific training and a lot of expertise to be matched to the right person.
“We are so grateful to Petbarn and its community for supporting us, and the effort from The Petbarn Foundation in helping change the lives of clients who are blind or have low vision.
“The Seeing Eye Dogs increase a client’s independence, provide companionship, help overcome social isolation and contribute enormously to their quality of life,” he said.
