May 11th is the local date for the Walk for Dog Guides Event, sponsored by Pet Valu in both Arnprior and Renfrew.
The Arnprior Lions Club is the organizer- on behalf of the Lions Clubs in both communities, and the Walk happens at Robert Simpson Park.
Lion Bill Gardiner says while Dog Guides are generally associated in public perception with the non-sighted, the range of those who benefit from canine companions is much broader.
Club President Bruce Bidgood says even with Lions volunteers active at every stage of a Dog Guide’s development, training costs can top 35k per dog.
Gardiner says the Lions’ volunteer model keeps training expenses about ten thousand dollars less than elsewhere.
Lion Bill Gardiner says the local Dog Guide Walk raises funds for both Arnprior and its more westerly neighbour.
Last year a companion silent auction raised over 7,000 dollars. This year the Lions Club has postponed the auction- perhaps until later this year.
That means May 11th is your chance to be a Super Hero! There’s a pledge-raiser scorecard with prizes- combined on the participant entry form.
Raise 150 dollars, get a pair of Walk socks. Raise $500, receive a Walk for Dog Guides Travel Kit. 1000 dollars gets you a Walk for Dog Guides speaker, and 1500 dollars raised earns a Walk for Dog Guides Backpack.
As well, all super heroes’ names are entered into a prize draw for prizes ranging from E-Gift Cards, up to a 55 inch Samsung Smart TV.
Entry forms at your local Pet Valu.
Bill Gardiner says it’s not obligatory to take part in the event to raise money- one can participate for the camaraderie alone.
He says this will be the first Dog Guide Walk to take place along the renovated trail system at Robert Simpson.
Arnprior Lions’ President Bruce Bidgood says the 2024 Dog Guide Walk has its “poster pair”, Braydon and companion Innes.
Bill Gardiner says there are gift bag incentives for those taking part in the Dog Guide Walk.
Bruce Bidgood says he’d like to see a turn out befitting Arnprior’s reputation.
More information at walkfordogguides.com
The Dog Guide Walk, Saturday May 11th. Register at 11AM and the Walk’s done by 1.
By Rick Stow