Kiki, Unity, Quinlan and Noosa are four dogs that are going to have a much bigger impact on someone's life than just being adorable four-legged sidekicks.
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The group are the most recent graduates as Guide Dogs and were presented their first harness as part of a special ceremony at the Gibraltar Hotel on Wednesday, September 20.
"This was a very special graduation day as the training of all four dogs was made possible by supporters who included a gift in their will," a spokeswoman said.
"The celebration marked the conclusion of intensive training for the future Guide Dogs, and was also a recognition of the extraordinary contribution these life-changing dogs are soon set to make to the lives of people with low vision and blindness."
The spokeswoman said Kiki, Unity, Quinlan and Noosa had each grown up to possess "distinct, loveable personalities" and were ready to be a great support to their handlers.
Each dog went through five months of intensive training at the Guide Dog centre learning the skills to help people with sight loss safely.
The spokeswoman said the graduation was also to honour the generosity of those who had left a gift in their Will to Guide Dogs in supporting the thousands of Australians living with low vision and blindness.
More than 50 per cent of Guide Dogs including Kiki, Unity, Quinlan and Noosa are made possible due to the kindness of supporters.
"We have a wonderful group of graduating Guide Dogs who will soon be matched with a person in the community who is living with low vision or blindness," Guide Dogs planned giving GM Sally Biles said.
Once they are matched, the new Guide Dog team spends several weeks in training, working closely together to ensure they form a strong bond of trust, and learn all the skills that will increase the Handler's freedom and independence.
Ms Biles said support was what made the four dogs' graduation possible.
"So we're incredibly grateful for the ongoing support we receive from the from all of donors that allows us to continue our vital work," Sally Concluded.
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT said it takes $50,000 to breed, raise and train each life-changing Guide Dog.
To help Guide Dogs NSW/ACT raise and train more Guide Dogs, visit www.guidedogs.com.au
