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Sydney Airport has launched an appeal to support a litter of five Labrador puppies who will eventually be trained to become guide dogs.
The funding drive will include collection boxes and QR codes that will be displayed throughout both domestic and international terminals.
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Australian Aviation readers can donate to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT by clicking this link.
Labrador puppies Aero, Pax, Kingsford, Syd and Amelia were born in November and are set to undertake a two-year training program before they are matched with a new owner.
Sydney Airport said it costs around $50,000 to breed, raise and train each dog.
Ingrid Barnes and her guide dog Banner have taken 29 flights together since they were matched in 2019.
“I have limited time left with the current level of vision I have, so I want to see as much of the world as possible,” said Barnes.
“When you’re travelling, you get to spend time with family, experience new places, go to new art exhibitions, concerts, the theatre and stay in lovely hotels – it gives you something to look forward to.
“The bond between Banner and I can make travel so much easier. He can navigate busy environments like airports really well, and he can even help me find my suitcase at the carousel by smell because I pack his food.
“But there can be challenges too, like access to relief areas for Banner and ensuring people know how to interact with people who have a guide dog.
“Thankfully, partnerships like this and community education will continue to improve access and inclusion for people who are blind or have low vision.”
Guide Dogs NSW believes each year its dogs work with around 4,000 people who need assistance.
Founded in 1957, less than 10 per cent of its income comes from government funding.
To find out more, visit the charity’s website or donate here.
