Petbarn Geraldton contributes thousands to nationwide fundraiser to train 27 new seeing eye puppies

A pet store chain has exceeded its $1 million fundraising goal for its 10th annual Seeing Eye Dog Appeal, with Geraldton customers contributing almost $4500. The appeal is jointly run by the Petbarn Foundation and Vision Australia, with WA Petbarn stores raising $170,162. Nationwide, a total of $1.35 million was raised, which will cover the training of 27 seeing eye dogs helping change the lives of Australians living without vision. The Geraldton store raised $4420. Petbarn Geraldton store manager Jenny Curtis said the community displayed heartwarming generosity by donating to the cause and the store’s team was grateful for the response from customers in Geraldton and the Mid West. “Our team are so proud to be part of such an important cause and thank our customers for their incredible support,” she said. The fundraising partnership has funded 152 seeing eye dogs over the past 10 years. Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs CEO Ron Hooton said after specialist training, it cost about $50,000 to raise a seeing eye dog. “The seeing eye dogs increase a client’s independence, provide companionship, help overcome social isolation and contribute enormously to their quality of life,” he said.