Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs has declared school's out for this year's graduating class, reporting a record-number of graduates for the fifth consecutive year.
Each year, over 200 puppies enter the Seeing Eye Dogs program and undergo robust training before they are eventually paired with someone who is blind or has low vision.
According to Seeing Eye Dogs Client Services Manager Lester Chraim, there are 43 Seeing Eye Dogs that are graduating this year across the country.
"Our 2025 graduates have been paired with handlers across the country and will provide life-changing support to them. Not only do Seeing Eye Dogs provide our clients with independence through mobility, the companionship between a Seeing Eye Dog and their handler is truly special," said Lester.
"An increase in graduating numbers also means that we can continue to deliver on reduced wait times. On average, our clients can now receive a dog as soon as four months.
"Thanks to our team and the world-class training they provide, our Seeing Eye Dogs empower our clients to do the things they want and need to do. This includes going to the shops, seeing friends and family, going to work, school or university, and going to medical appointments.
"What's also special to see are the connections that our Seeing Eye Dog handlers make with each other. Once our clients receive a Seeing Eye Dog, we can connect them with others in the blind and low vision community who share similar experiences."
