Just five months ago, Alayna was matched with Seeing Eye Dog Joey – and now this incredible pair is conquering the world together.
Before Joey, Alayna was struggling to reach her dream of paid, full-time work – her vision loss was making this much harder to achieve. After matching with Joey, everything has changed. Alayna has embraced volunteer work and joined the team at Seeing Eye Dogs kennels in Kensington. Joey and his incredible skills have changed Alayna’s life.
Every Wednesday, Joey and Alayna make the trek to Melbourne, travelling on a regional train, Metro city train and then walking to Seeing Eye Dogs.
Alayna says, ’I couldn’t tackle the city on my own, but Joey makes it so easy and reduces the stress, showing me the way through crowds and between platforms.
Now I work with young Seeing Eye Dogs pups waiting to be matched with a volunteer puppy carer, making enrichment toys, cleaning kennels, grooming and the best part – giving cuddles!’
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Joey easily navigates through big, busy crowds and together, the two have begun taking big leaps in confidence.
‘Just the other day, Joey showed me a set of steps I don’t normally use. Having Joey by my side builds my self-esteem and confidence. Without him I wouldn’t have dreamed of trying such a challenge.’
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This amazing team is truly inseparable, regularly out together at music festivals, cinemas, cafes, shopping centres and walking at the local lake.
Alayna and her Seeing Eye Dog Joey walking around a scenic lake
Thank you for all you do to help care for and train Seeing Eye Dogs like Joey!
