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Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs is calling on compassionate locals in Melbourne’s inner north-west to consider opening their homes to a Seeing Eye Dog currently undergoing formal training.

Each year, more than 200 puppies enter the Seeing Eye Dogs program. At 13 to 15 months of age, they begin formal training with the goal of becoming fully qualified Seeing Eye Dogs and providing life-changing support to people who are blind or have low vision.

According to Seeing Eye Dogs Training Program Manager Kylie Gersh, volunteer training dog carers will need to provide a warm, loving home for the dogs, offering essential downtime during training before they are matched with someone who is blind or has low vision. 

“This is a fantastic chance to welcome an adorable, mature dog into your home while making a difference for the community,” said Kylie.  

“As part of this rewarding volunteer program, carers will be responsible for housing the dogs overnight and on weekends for up to six months.

“All expenses will be covered by Seeing Eye Dogs, including medical bills and food. The main requirement of carers is that they drop off and pick up the Seeing Eye Dog from our training centre in Kensington during weekdays – so we encourage people who live in and around Kensington to apply."

“If you’re a dog lover and able to look after a larger dog, I encourage you to apply. You’ll also get a chance to join a community of other like-minded volunteers and make lasting connections.”

Want to know more about volunteering?

For more information about volunteering, or to apply visit sed.visionaustralia.org/volunteer/training-dog