Packed summer for life-changing Midlands Guide Dogs branch
Twinkle, Pixie and Bumble, ambassadors for the Midlands Branch of the Irish Guide Dogs, along with volunteers in the branch, have had a packed schedule of fundraising this year.
The fundraising season kicked off at the Athlone Agricultural Show, followed by a fantastic weekend at Athlone River Fest, where the team met plenty of Vikings and generous supporters.
Next came three days at the Sheepdog Trials in Lisbrock Kennels, kindly hosted by Barra O’Brien and Mary O’Brien, before a trip to the Tullamore Show, where the branch had a stall and even met Minister Simon Harris.
The group hosted a lively fundraiser at The Bounty in Athlone, with music from Dublin band Midlife Crisis. Organised by volunteer Theresa O’Reilly and band member Dermot Golden, the event featured guest appearances from working guide dog Effe and ambassador dog Quinny, with raffle prizes kindly donated by local businesses.
Volunteers welcomed the Limerick Ladies Cycling Club to Sean’s Bar, as the cyclists stopped in Athlone during their 600km charity ride from Mizen Head to Malin Head. The following morning, the group waved the cyclists off from the Wineport, where staff had prepared breakfast and lunch for the journey.
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Michael Collins, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, Mai Byrne with ambassador dogs Bumble and Pixie.Image 2 of 3
Six ambassador dogs at The Bounty fundraiser by band Midlife CrisisImage 3 of 3
Michael Collins and Mai Byrne with Pixie and Bumble and MEP Nina Carberry at Tullamore Show.Most recently, the branch took part in events with the Irish Wheelchair Association in Athlone, Petmania, and the Moate Agri Show, while ambassador dogs have also continued to make regular visits to schools, businesses, and community groups for educational sessions.
The Midlands Branch will be out again in October for a Pet Blessing at St Peter and Paul’s Church on Sunday, October 5, where all animals are welcome.
Irish Guide Dogs receives 85% of their funding from fundraising, carrying out between 50 to 80 fundraisers annually to reach their funding needs.
Over 70 pups are currently in training with the natonal organisation, at a cost of roughly €53,000 to train a Guide Dog from age of 8 weeks to 24 months before they start work with a visually impaired or blind person.
Guide Dogs are also provided for autistic children and companion dogs for schools. The dogs provide a huge amount of independence for their companions.
The Midlands Branch of the Irish Guide Dogs extends its heartfelt thanks to Athlone businesses and the public who continue to be so generous and supportive.