Petbarn has raised $775,000 in July 2020 thanks to the Goulburn community's generous contribution to the Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal. The record amount surpassed the $500,000 fundraising target by $275,000. Since the appeal started in 2014 it has raised funds to train 85 Seeing Eye Dogs and change 85 Australian lives for the better.
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Thanks to the community, 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be able to commence their two-year training process and enable Australians who are blind or have low vision to have greater independence, with the best of companions by their side.
Petbarn Goulburn manager Jo-Anne Maree Challoner said she was extremely grateful to everybody who donated what they could to the cause.
"We know 2020 has been a challenging year for so many people, yet our customers continue to amaze us with their generosity," Ms Challoner said.
"The money raised will go towards helping Australians who are blind or have low vision retain their independence and mobility. Thanks to our local Goulburn customers, 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be trained to provide companionship and special assistance to people who need it most."
Royal Canin also donated $50,000 towards the fundraiser while Vision Australia's first-ever Seeing Eye Dogs Puppy Games helped raise awareness and donations for the cause. The Puppy Games saw four pups go tail-to-tail to showcase their skills and the real-life challenges they may face as Seeing Eye Dogs.
Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs general manager Graeme Craig said the partnership with the Petbarn Foundation was integral to raising funds so that even more Seeing Eye Dogs pups could complete the extensive training they require.
"We're overwhelmed with how much has been raised for this year's appeal. Through the amazing efforts of Petbarn/City Farmers customers, we can continue to support even more Australians who are blind or have low vision," Mr Craig said.
"It takes a lot of expertise, time, love, patience and funding to raise these special dogs that will one day provide the gift of independence.
"For the right person, these highly trained dogs help them move confidently and navigate obstacles with much more reliability and safety."
Visit www.petbarn.com.au/seda/ for more information.
