PAWGUST – the pawfect chance to put your best paw forward

From the cane fields of Queensland to Swan River walking paths in Perth, dog lovers are being encouraged to put on their winter woollies and brave the cold for a walk this PAWGUST, raising money for an important cause.

Guide Dogs’ annual PAWGUST fundraiser encourages people to walk every day in August, with or without a dog, to get moving for a good cause. PAWGUST is the pawfect opportunity to raise vital funds which go towards raising and training Guide Dogs and supporting people with low vision or blindness to maintain and build their independence.

It costs more than $50,000 to raise and train a Guide Dog, Assistance Dog or Facility Dog and provide essential support to those living with low vision, blindness and other specialised needs.

This year, PAWGUST will be offering incentives to pawticipants, including t-shirts, beanies, jumpers, socks and bum bags when they reach fundraising milestones.

Alana, 19, and her Guide Dog Rocket will be among those pounding the pavement during PAWGUST, and not just on her daily trip into the city to attend her classes at the University of Adelaide.

Having been born with Oculocutaneous Albinism, leaving her with only three per cent usable vision, Alana was paired with Rocket last year. The pair have formed a close and special bond, with Rocket guiding her as she navigates her university degree.

Alana said having the ability to do anything has made her more confident, thanks to Rocket.

“Rocket has definitely helped my anxiety going out in public, I think just having that kind of physical contact there, being able to get on public transport and being able to actually go somewhere on my own, just going to uni on my own, has definitely been a good thing for me,” Alana said.

“After I finish my university degree, I think Rocket will really help me, as he will make me feel like I’m not held back by my vision impairment.”

Guide Dogs SA/NT CEO Aaron Chia said walking in winter was a great way to get off the couch and keep your pup exercising too and gives friends an opportunity to sponsor walks throughout the month.

“We know it’s cold in winter, but getting up and moving with your pooch means you’ll both be getting fitter, and you know you’ll be doing a good thing for people out there living with low vision or blindness,” Mr Chia said.