Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind to open doors to the public on Saturday

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is hosting an open day this weekend in Cork, with special guest Munster and Irish rugby player, Jack Crowley.

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is a national charity dedicated to helping people living with sight loss or autism to improve their mobility and independence.

For over 48 years they have provided life-changing services and support to people across Ireland with sight loss.

All services are offered free of charge with 85% of funding coming from the generosity of the general public, corporate support and legacies.

“Puppy raising was part of family life growing up,” he explained. “We all got involved, helping each pup to socialise, learn the basics of obedience, and experience everyday activities such as traveling on buses, trains, and even going to some of my games.

“It’s a huge commitment, but we knew that every time a pup left to start formal training, we had given it a significant start in its journey to changing someone’s life.”

He added: “Every time I visit the centre now, I’m tempted to sign up again!”

The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind open day takes place from 12pm to 4pm on Saturday, August 31, at their training centre on Model Farm Road and entry is €5 per person or €10 for a family.

There will be tours of the facilities, grooming demos, and guide dog and assistance dog demos, plus a kids’ colouring competition. The organisation’s holiday voucher raffle will also take place with one winner being chosen.

They will win a holiday voucher to the value of €5,000, valid for five years through Barter’s Travelnet and which can be used multiple times — you can buy a ticket here: https://shop.guidedogs.ie/products/holiday-raffle-2024

There is no parking on site, but a shuttle bus service will be running every 15 minutes from Ballincollig Primary Care Centre (P31 XN96) starting at noon.

The organisers have advised that no pet dogs are allowed on site.