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It’s not often we’re able to tell the story of a couple who both have Seeing Eye Dogs, but Beverley and Warwick are the exception!

Married for 20 years, Beverley and Warwick are both totally blind and have each experienced the limitless freedom and independence a Seeing Eye Dog brings. And it’s all thanks to compassionate people like you.

Beverley has been blind since the age of seven, when surgeons had to cut her optic nerve to remove a cerebral abscess in the right side of her brain. Warwick has been blind since the age of 23, after being born with a genetic syndrome that led to retinitis pigmentosa.

The couple have worked in diverse roles over the years, from therapeutic massage to community service, always with a Seeing Eye Dog right by their side. Beverley has had six dogs and Warwick has had nine. Today, Beverley works with Seeing Eye Dog Alfred while Warwick works with Seeing Eye Dog Oslow. They cannot imagine life without a dog guide.

Beverley and Warwick with their Seeing Eye Dogs Alfred and Oslow at the lake.
Beverley and Warwick with their Seeing Eye Dogs Alfred and Oslow at the lake.

“Like every dog I’ve trained with, Alfred bonded immediately to me. He is a beautiful, well-mannered boy, always wagging his tail and eager to work. He just jumps into action once his harness is on,” says Beverley.

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Warwick says their dogs are like ‘brothers’, which makes for a wonderful home life for everyone. “Oslow is an easy-going, laid-back boy who loves playing with his brother. As soon as their harnesses come off at home, you wouldn’t know they are working dogs.”

Beverley says having a Seeing Eye Dog and not relying on sighted people makes a huge difference in their lives. “Once you get comfortable, it’s just seamless.”

The lifelong impact of Seeing Eye Dogs for people like Beverley and Warwick is extraordinary. Thank you for all you do to support Australians who are blind or have low vision.