Guide Dogs WA extend recruitment drive to Dunsborough, Busselton, Augusta and Margaret River

Dog lovers in the Capes region now have a chance to do their bit for a good cause and sign up as volunteer puppy raisers for Guide Dogs WA. The charity recently expanded its catchment for potential recruits – and pooches – to include people living from Dunsborough to Augusta. A Guide Dogs WA spokeswoman said the charity wanted to find as many recruits as possible due to a big increase in demand for assistance dogs for people with low vision, disabilities or illness. “(People) now have the opportunity to get involved in the life-changing work of the loved WA organisation,” she said. Trainer Heather de Rooy said she had undertaken training of young pups for several years and found it incredibly rewarding as well as a lot of fun. “When I retired, I started looking for volunteer work,” she said. “Our family always had a love for dogs and we hoped to help improve the life of someone else, so puppy raising was the perfect fit for our whole family.” The job involves taking on an eight-week-old puppy, supported by experts to help socialise the dog and instil basic obedience training for 12 months. Puppies are also carefully exposed to the sorts of environments they will likely encounter later, such as shopping malls, restaurants and public transport, and accompanying owners on school pick-ups and weekend sports activities. Trainer also regularly meet up with other volunteers for group sessions. To get involved, visit guidedogswa.com.au