Puppy milestone reached in government-backed breeding program

Jun 3, 2024, 09:00 AM

Guide Dogs WA’s Breeding and Cadet Training Program has reached a major milestone with more than 100 labrador puppies now born.

The extra Guide and Assistance dogs was made possible from a $5 million government grant, and Guide Dogs WA matched funding through public donations.

These dogs will be trained to assist people in our community with low or no vision, disability, or illness.

The financial support will allow Guide Dogs WA to meet the growing demand for Guide Dogs, Autism Assistance Dogs, Therapy Dogs and Facility Dogs, which all make a life-changing difference to West Australians in need.

Funding included:

  • a new fit-out of the Guide Dogs WA centre
  • specialised staffing costs
  • increasing the fleet of fit-for-purpose vehicles
  • specialised whelping and puppy equipment.

 

Additionally, Guide Dogs WA’s Cadet Training Program has been re-established to increase the number of local, highly qualified dog trainers and Guide Dog Mobility Instructors in WA.

This will create local jobs and reduce the need to outsource dogs and trainers from interstate and overseas.

Photos: New recruits — 5 week old labrador puppies at Guide Dogs WA. All photos by CamFeels Creative.