Guide dogs offer freedom and independence by acting as eyes for people who are blind or have poor vision.
Each year the New Zealand Blind Foundation holds a Red Puppy Appeal, the annual fundraiser for breeding and training guide dogs.
This year’s nationwide street collection will be held on Friday and Saturday.
After two years of training by specialist trainers and support from volunteer puppy walkers, guide dogs go on to help someone who is blind to complete day-to-day tasks like going to and from work, the shops and using public transport.
The Blind Foundation’s chief executive Sandra Budd says the cost of breeding and training a guide dog is fully funded by public donations and sponsorships, which is why there is a need for the Red Puppy Appeal.
