Three guide dogs sitting together in a field
Three guide dogs sitting together in a field

From 1 February to 31 March, we embark on a fundraising campaign to raise $150,000 to train the next generation of guide dogs. Through this, we hope to bring in and train three more dogs for our clients waiting to be paired. The funds raised will also go towards providing continual support and assessment for all our guide dog handlers and dogs.

At Guide Dogs Singapore Ltd (GDS), we strive to improve the quality of life for people with visual impairment (VI) in Singapore. In 2020 to 2021, services to our clients were affected temporarily by the pandemic. However, the support we continued to receive allowed us to focus on adapting, and pivoting to new alternatives to carry on providing services to support the VI community.

As the only organisation in Singapore to provide guide dogs, the invaluable contributions from donors, have enabled us to open doors to promote a greater understanding and acceptance of guide dogs in Singapore, which helps build a more inclusive society for the VI community.

Dogs in training, Eve, Jade and Laurie sitting in a field
Dogs in training, Eve, Jade and Laurie sitting in a field

Last year, we welcomed three new dogs-in-training – Eve, Jade and Laurie! On behalf of our clients who will be paired with the three dogs, we thank you for enabling them to have greater independence and mobility.

There are currently six clients on our list waiting to be paired with guide dogs. Your support will bring us closer to our goal of raising $150,000 and help more GDS clients live the independent life they desire.

Follow us on our social media pages as we share the progress and matching process of our clients with their guide dogs.

Alvin and Seretta walking through a park connector
Alvin and Seretta walking through a park connector

“In my lowest and darkest periods, Seretta (guide dog) helped me overcome them. It is now my turn to care for her when she retires” – Alvin, GDS guide dog handler

Alvin was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease at 31 years of age when he was at the peak of his career. Overnight, he lost his vision and could only perceive light. This loss of vision caused him anxiety and depression. For a long time, he could not step out of his house alone, and depended on sighted guiding to move around.

In 2012, Guide Dogs Singapore (GDS) paired him with Seretta, his first guide dog. The two have since formed an inseparable bond and travelled to many places together. For ten years, Seretta has been Alvin’s pair of eyes and faithful companion. She is due to retire in 2022. Alvin and his wife intend to keep her as a pet dog and provide her with the best golden years.

With Seretta’s retirement, Alvin will need a replacement guide dog to enable him to continue his independent lifestyle. Your generous support will provide people with vision impairment like Alvin the gift of independence and empower them to lead their lives with their heads held high.

Training the next generation of guide dogs campaign banner
GDS is a non-profit voluntary welfare organisation, and has been accorded Charity status by the Commissioner of Charities. We are registered with the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) as an associate member and holds an Institute of Public Character status.
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