Maximise your independence
Get personalised support and skills to live the way you want to, regardless of your vision level.
Posted in: News
Your referral matters Health Professionals
Help support your patient’s independence and mobility by referring them to Guide Dogs Victoria. While our beloved Guide Dogs play a crucial role in the work we do, we have a versatile range of supports to meet your patient’s unique needs.
Whether your patient is young or young-at-heart; if they have recently experienced a change in vision or had long-term low vision, we will always provide support.
Get involved Puppy Pals
By making a regular contribution to our Guide Dog training programs, you help adorable puppies grow into highly skilled Guide Dogs.
You will receive regular updates on all of our puppy litters and share in the joys and triumphs of each puppy’s journey towards Guide Dog training.
Buy now and get 1 month free Guide Dogs Pet Insurance
Get the only pet insurance that helps support Guide Dogs Australia!
- Claim up to $20,000 per year on eligible vet bills
- Get affordable cover for cats, dogs or Registered Guide Dogs
Raise a puppy Foster a growing Guide Dog
Raising a puppy involves caring for a potential Guide Dog over a 12 month foster period. The goal is to nurture each puppy so they become well socialised, confident and focussed before training. Puppy raisers receive ongoing support and instructions throughout the foster period. You’ll develop a powerful bond with an amazing animal and play an important role in helping Victorians with low vision.
What are the requirements? A successful puppy raiser will:
Live nearby
You must live in metropolitan Melbourne, Geelong or Ballarat.
Dedicate time
Puppies should not be left alone for more than three hours per day.
Provide care
Puppies require lots of attention for successful training and socialisation.
Be moderately physically fit
Puppy raisers need to manage certain physical, emotional and intellectual demands.
Be available to visit our campus
Vet appointments and puppy raising classes occur on weekdays during business hours.
Be available during business hours
Puppy raisers must meet with Puppy Development Advisors as required.
Provide safety
Puppies need to be safe and secure. This involves appropriate fencing for pools and gardens in the home.
Have the use of a registered and insured passenger vehicle
And be licensed to drive in Victoria.
Allow the pup to sleep indoors
Pups work (and play) hard! They need their rest in a warm and safe environment.
Learn more Julian's story
Our services Learn practical skills to live independently
Whatever you need to make your life more independent, we can equip you with the necessary skills. Learn to move confidently through the world with Orientation & Mobility travel training, maximise your remaining vision, master daily living skills with Occupational Therapists, or train and partner with a Guide Dog.
