January 29, 1929 was an important day in the history of service dogs. On that date Seeing Eye Inc., was born. They were the pioneer and innovator of dog guide services. This year, as they turn 85, you can help celebrate by giving any of these “gifts” to guide dog organizations that help guide dogs fulfill their potential.
#1 – Volunteer
Many guide dog organizations are dependent on volunteers to keep costs down. Whether you help feed, clean bedding, drive graduates to speaking engagements, or any other number tasks, you couldn’t give a better gift than your time.
#2 – Be a Puppy Raiser
One of the best jobs in the world might be raising a puppy to be a guide dog. If you have the heart, time, and commitment, you can make a difference in the lives of others. Just think, there would be no guide dogs if it weren’t for amazing puppy raisers.
#3 – Money
Most guide dog organizations charge little to nothing to receive a service dog. Some of them are even non-profits. Donating money towards the care and training of these life-changing dogs is an amazing way to celebrate.
#4 – Pennies for Puppies®
Want to donate to Seeing Eye directly but just have a few cents to share? You can still make a big difference through Seeing Eye’s programs, Pennies for Puppies or Dollars for Dogs®. They help anyone, from individual adults to children in classrooms, organize fundraising activities. Why not have a fundraising day on Jan. 29 in your classroom or office?
#5 – Shop
Yup, that’s right, shopping can help out the guide dogs too! Most guide dog organizations have merchandise you can purchase to help support them or you can shop with their partners. For example, Seeing Eye is partnered with Amazon Smile and Guide Dogs for the Blind has a Visa credit card that gives them a percentage of every purchase.
Toledo, United States.
