Bob Martin announced as dog food sponsor for the SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind

In 2013, Guide-Dogs celebrates 60 years of delivering excellent service and support that has enhanced the mobility, independence and dignity of visually and physically impaired people in our society.

Guide-Dogs is a fully constituted welfare organisation, registered with the Department of Social Development in terms of the Non-profit Organisations Act, 1997 and is affiliated to the South African National Council for the Blind. The Association is also one of the founding members of the International Federation of Guide Dog Schools, made up of approximately 82 guide dog schools in 26 countries.

The process of training a guide dog is one that takes substantial time and dedication. All puppies are bred from a specially selected stock, mostly from dogs already bred by Guide-Dogs where every attempt is made to ensure they are free from any hereditary diseases. From seven weeks, puppies are placed under the Puppy Raising Programme for approximately 12 to 14 months until they are ready for the advanced training phase. The dogs then undergo advanced obedience training, during which they are taught a wide range of commands and the critical skills required for obstacle avoidance and traffic work.

“The partnership of the Bob Martin brand with Guide-Dogs strategically merges a market leader in pet care with the valued and highly regarded Association. Bob Martin recognises the fundamental role Guide-Dogs play in the lives of the visually and physically impaired,” comments Bob Martin's marketing manager, Justine Gatter. “Bob Martin donates food to the various training centres nationwide which is used during the intense training phases. In addition to the donation of puppy and adult dog food, Bob Martin also makes an annual financial contribution to the SA Guide-Dogs Association.”

Understanding the importance of being mobile for those with visual impairment, Guide-Dogs also operates the College of Orientation and Mobility, which has been in operation since 1974 and accredits sighted students with a national diploma in orientation and mobility. The qualified instructors are then able to train and equip the visually impaired within their local communities with the skills needed for daily living and mobility using a white cane. The college largely relies on funding from private individuals and companies to continue their work.

For further information, visit www.bobmartin.co.za or phone 011 565 7000.

For further information on SA Guide-Dogs Association sponsorship opportunities and fund raising initiatives, visit www.guidedog.org.za or phone 011 705 3513/0877 549 295.