April 28 Is International Guide Dog Day
International Guide Dog Day is observed on April 28. The annual event celebrates canine companions who have been trained to assist those with visual impairments.
Here at Woof Republic, we think one of the best ways to celebrate International Guide Dog Day is to learn more about these amazing dogs and their handlers. Social media sensation Molly Burke, who lost her vision due to retinitis pigmentosa, has used a guide dog for assistance since she was 14-years-old.
In a November 2018 YouTube video, Burke addressed different questions about guide dogs. She explained that “guide dogs are one of the only forms of service dogs that actually have their own name” and “were the first form of service dog.” She noted that handlers, like herself, will “hold [onto a] handle” that is attached to the dog’s harness, who then is “able to lead [them] around objects and help [them] find things.”
Photo by James Barker on Unsplash
Burke went on to say that one common misconception is that guide dogs wear brightly colored vests when they actually sport a harness with a “firm handle.” The breeds that typically become guide dogs include labs, golden retrievers, and german shepherds. She also noted that guide dogs retire after about eight years of service. A handler may return their dog to a dog guide school. However, some people may want to keep their pooch as a pet or give the dog to a close friend or family member.
The 27-year-old also said that those who need guide dogs do not receive federal funding. This is rather unfortunate as guide dogs usually cost about $40,000. Thankfully, there are charities like The Mira Foundations USA that can help with this financial burden.
“Basically they fundraise and all of that money goes towards the training, the breeding of the dogs, and the housing of the dog for the two years of their life while they are being trained and then they’re given to the blind person who needs them for free,” explained Burke.
If you are able, consider donating to a guide dog charity or nonprofit organization in celebration of International Guide Dog Day.
Photo by Jay Wennington on Unsplash