March 5, 2025 • 28 mins
On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by Puppy Development Manager Jane Bradley.
Jane shares some reflections on the transitions dog owners, handlers and carers face at the end of the journey of each dog, the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) and the 2025 IGDF conference coming up in June. You can find out more about IGDF at igdf.org.uk.
If you’d like to learn about Seeing Eye Dogs, the work we do, becoming a handler, or supporting us head to our website at sed.visionaustralia.org.
We’re looking for puppy carers in select regions across NSW, QLD and VIC. Head to our website for information about volunteering or attend our upcoming information session: online for all states (VIC, NSW, QLD on Wednesday, March 12, from 6pm to 7pm (AEDT) (5pm to 6pm QLD/AEST) register link via the website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/volunteer/information-sessions.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
S1 (00:11):
On Vision Australia Radio. You're listening to the Seeing Eye
dog show. With me, your host, Harriet Moffitt. On this interview,
I'm joined by puppy development manager Jane Bradley in our
first interview of the year together. Jane shares some reflections
on the transitions that dog owners, handlers and carers face
at the end of the journey that we have with
each dog, whether that be your pet guide or a
(00:33):
puppy in training. We also talk about International Guide Dog
Federation or Igrf, the work that they do in developing
members worldwide, and seeing Italy's role in that and the
collaborative nature of our industry, which is striving to improve
client and dog outcomes with continuous improvement in an ever
changing world. We also talk about the 2025 International Guide
(00:57):
Dog Federation Conference coming up in June of 2025. You
can find out more about IGF at GDF. Org.uk. And
now I hope you enjoy this interview.
S2 (01:17):
Hi Jane, thanks for joining me on the show today.
S3 (01:19):
Good morning Harriet. Good to chat with you again. Yeah.
Happy New Year to you.
S2 (01:23):
Happy new year. Could you please start off by introducing yourself?
S3 (01:27):
Yeah, sure. Um, so my name is Jane Bradley. Um,
I work for Vision Australia and currently working in the
puppy development and customer service area.
S2 (01:37):
I'm going to talk a little bit about GDF later.
Could you tell us a bit about what your role
is at GDF?
S3 (01:43):
Yes of course. Yeah. I currently chair the development committee
for International Guide Dog Federation, and that committee is responsible
for um, professional standard setting for dog guide organisations helping
new and emerging applicant organisations to work through the standards
(02:04):
Its procedure and get them ready for accreditation and their
first assessment.
S2 (02:10):
Well, we will hear a bit more about the GDF later.
It sounds like you've got quite a lot on your plate.
S3 (02:18):
Uh, well, there is that saying. If you find a
job you love, you never work a day in your life.
And I would certainly say that applies to me.
S2 (02:27):
So I think the last time we spoke was last year.
So we're kind of, I guess kicking, kicking off 2025.
What's happened in the last, you know, year? Are there
any updates or thoughts that you'd like to share?
S3 (02:40):
Yeah. Um, well, I guess the most recent one, Vision Australia,
graduated a record number of people with their new dog guide,
which is absolutely fantastic. And we managed to reduce the
waiting time for a new dog to approximately 12 weeks,
which is pretty amazing. So yeah, pretty pretty amazing. So
what that means is people who are waiting for a
(03:01):
successor dog, or even people who are new to us
were able to come in and receive their services pretty quickly.
So the team have done absolutely amazing work with that.
And um, yeah, it just it just means that everything's
running a lot smoother for our clients, which is what
we're all about. Um, yeah. So that that was one
of our major, major achievements, I think. Um, in addition
(03:24):
to some of the fundraising activity that we did, the
Petbarn campaign, I think smashed huge number. Um, yeah. So
lots of big pieces of work that we did. Um,
I guess just from my perspective, I did write a
LinkedIn post before Christmas. I had a bit of a
transition myself. I, um, lost my pet dog, Reggie, who's
(03:44):
been with me for 17 years, and in that time
he's seen, gosh, he's been the decoy dog for so
many dog training sessions. He's appeared in multiple test databases.
S2 (03:57):
He's really been a model.
S3 (03:59):
He. Yeah, he's he's, um, he's really contributed to the
to the work in many ways, which is not bad
for a little rescue dog from the animal shelter. Um,
but I guess, um, the reason I'm bringing this up
is it's just that transition time is one year ends
and another year starts. And this, this chapter in my
(04:19):
life where, um, you know, one dog has, has died
sadly and welcoming a new dog into into my life,
which is another rescue dog called moose. Um, and as
that happens, I just really made me think about all
the transitions. You know, our clients working with the dog
that may be due for retirement, and all the trepidation
(04:39):
and worry that comes with a new dog and will.
I love the new dog the same? And will this
dog be as good as my last dog? Because I'm
sort of thinking no dog can ever be as good
as Reggie. Reggie was the best dog ever. Um, and
it also has really made me think, because this this
dog I've got, um, he's a he's a young dog.
He's only 12 months old. And it just has really
(05:01):
made me think. Hats off to all our volunteer people
raising puppies out there for us, doing amazing work. Um,
because I'd completely forgotten about all the puppy biting and
biting your ankles and, um, you know, chomping of your
hand and, uh, grabbing the leash. It's all these. All
these puppy things that puppies like to do. So I
(05:21):
just want to say a massive thank you to everybody
out there, um, who's housing a dog for our program
and raising these wonderful dogs for clients.
S2 (05:30):
I just wanted to say Reggie will really be missed
by all of us. And sorry for your loss.
S3 (05:34):
Oh. Thank you. Thank you. Yeah. Yeah, it's part of
part of life, I suppose, isn't it, when we love
our animals. So. Yeah.
S2 (05:41):
I do know a few volunteer carers that, um, have
said they, they do like the fact that they only
have the young dog. They don't have to deal with
the end, which, um, I guess is a is a
very interesting perspective on it, but makes sense because if
you are dealing with a puppy stage, you know, you
maybe don't get the lovely senior years, which, um, are
definitely to be cherished. But the goodbye is a very
interesting one. But transitions at any point are inevitable, I
(06:03):
guess you say?
S3 (06:04):
Yeah. Yeah. It is part of life, isn't it? Transitions
and how we try and go through them gracefully. But they. Yeah, it's, um,
it is a part of life. I remember, um, John Gosling,
who's a real role model in our industry. Many people
will know him. He always used to say to me, um, Jane,
there's a dog for every decade. So every time a
client came back to us for a new dog, he
(06:27):
would say, oh, you know, there's a there's the right
dog for every decade. And I always thought that was
really good advice. So yeah, it's it's interesting. So yeah.
So I've currently got moose and um, he is a
giant and ridiculous dog who doesn't know his own size.
So he's really quite entertaining. He went to the office
for the first time yesterday because we're very fortunate at
(06:47):
Vision Australia, providing our dogs are suitable temperament. There's space
in the office for training dogs and we obviously all
the right vaccinations. We can take our dogs in from
time to time. So moose went to our office yesterday
for the first time and he thought it was fantastic.
The bones, dog beds everywhere. Um.
S2 (07:05):
Entertaining people.
S3 (07:07):
Yeah. Oh, he met all the team. Um, he met Kim,
who's one of our senior trainers. He met all the
office staff, um, Monette, who many people will have spoken
to on the phone. Um, he just had the best
day ever, I think.
S2 (07:22):
So, going back to a more seeing eye dog or
guide dog industry. Want to talk a bit about the IGF?
So International Judo Federation. Can you tell us a bit
about the IGF and what it is. What's the purpose.
S3 (07:35):
Yeah of course. So the International Guide Dog Federation or
IGF as we call it, it's a membership body and
a professional standard setter for the dog guide organizations. And
we've been operating since 1989. And we also provide support
and services to our member programs. Um, we are very
(07:57):
invested in quality improvement and making sure that, um, our
organizations receive support and services from more established organisations, and
we collect information in in the format of an annual
report every year from our organisations to track and analyze
trends within the sector. And we've currently got 99 member
(08:22):
organisations who are accredited from 33 countries across the world. Yeah,
it's a lot and I'll just on that as well.
We're hoping that Guide Dogs Singapore, who is one of
the organisations we've been helping for a long time, I've
been working with them on development committee and we're hoping
that they'll become the 100th accredited programme, which would be
(08:45):
really exciting because they're ready now for their accreditation and
we've allocated an assessor. So we big, you know, fingers
crossed for Guide Dog Singapore. So we're hoping they'll be
our 100th 100th member programme which would be really exciting.
S2 (08:59):
And does that mean you guys at least you know,
in IGF have a little party or have some cake
or something, because I feel like you should celebrate that
in a formal way, you know? Yeah.
S3 (09:08):
We will. We'll find a way to celebrate it. We'll
have to eat virtual cake. I mean, if yeah, maybe,
maybe at the conference, which is something else I want
to talk about later. But we will be getting together
in person this year, so there'll definitely be a celebration
on that. Yeah. It's good. Um, yeah. So we're we're
working with, um, I think we've just had a couple more, actually.
We're working with about 20 applicant organizations from six countries. Um,
(09:33):
we've got 7 or 8. Eight. We got one through
last night from Czechoslovakia. So eight inquiring organizations from another
three countries and five affiliate organizations. And, um, just some
fun facts for people who like them. There's 19,557 dogs
(09:55):
currently working with their people. Um, as of the 31st
of December.
S2 (09:59):
Can you please repeat that figure just one time? Yeah.
S3 (10:03):
557.
S2 (10:05):
Wow. And those are all, you know, guide dogs or
seeing eye dogs from other organizations across the world.
S3 (10:11):
Oh, that's that's dogs working with their people. Yeah. Working
with their client. Yeah. Amazing. Yeah. And we've got about
794 qualified instructors, about 200 and 252 trainee instructors, um,
241 trainers and individual volunteers. We've got approximately 40,000 supporting
(10:38):
programs across the world. So, again, you know, huge collaboration
and a huge amount of giving that people do to
to make sure that our wonderful dogs get the work
and care that they need and that our clients can
receive those quality services.
S2 (10:53):
I mean, it's amazing kind of that coming together part
of your life and your work there. Sorry to interrupt you.
S3 (10:59):
Oh, no, I was just going to say, and if
people are interested, just jump on the website, which is
w Igfa. Org.uk. About us. And there's a lot of
great information on there that people can see. You don't
need to be a member to access a lot of
that information. So yeah, go and have a look around.
It's interesting.
S2 (11:18):
And so what is, um, like seeing eye dogs as
kind of role in in helping other organizations.
S3 (11:25):
Well, we, we at Vision Australia we're a big believer
in collaboration. It's it's one of our organizational values. And
we are a fairly established organization. We obviously the largest
national services provider in Australia for people who are blind
or have low vision. And our Seeing Eye Dog program
has been established, um, for 60 years, 60 odd years.
(11:50):
I think this year we'll be having our 65th anniversary, actually.
So watch this space for some more celebrations there. Um,
so when we this is before my time, but when
we were starting out, we were very fortunate to receive
help and assistance from other member schools, Guide Dogs UK
(12:10):
and other schools around Australia and around the world. And
then we are a big believer in paying that back
and paying it forward. So now it's our turn to
really help those emerging schools. So some of the things
we've done, um, and we've got an example at the
moment is we have a, um, a trainee instructor called Shaolin,
(12:31):
and she's been staying with us for the past two
years to do her traineeship with us at Vision Australia.
And when she completes her training, she'll go back and
go back to her, um, her program, which is Guide
Dog Singapore. So what that means, um, is that Guide
Dog Singapore will have two qualified instructors to deliver services
(12:52):
to the people of Singapore that need them. Um, guide dogs.
Victoria actually trained the previous instructor, so they've got two instructors,
Christina and Shaolin. And, uh, there's also an orientation and
mobility instructor there. So it's really just developing the education
quality service provision that people need and where we can
(13:14):
assist as a more established program. We absolutely will do that.
S2 (13:19):
It's very cool. And I guess, um, kind of important
to note too, that, you know, whilst she's, um, whilst
she has been here working with us, she's also been,
you know, training dogs that have been matched with our
clients too. And, um, you know, so it's it's very
much like, you know, a kind of collaborative effort too,
in the fact that, yeah, those those dogs that she's, um,
(13:39):
kind of worked with as part of her traineeship are
also still, um, yeah, going on to do important stuff.
So it's kind of cool. It's like learning on the job. Um, yeah, absolutely.
S3 (13:50):
And yeah, it is, um, you know, we are quite
a niche industry in a way. Um, there's there's less
than a thousand instructors in the world. And so, yes,
definitely part of the learning we can do online. Um,
but part of it is just getting stuck in and
doing the job. And, um, as you say, doing that
on the job training so where we can support and
(14:12):
assist to grow that, that group of instructors, we absolutely
will do that.
S2 (14:18):
And for anyone who's not aware, an instructor is a
person that works with both the train, uh, both kind
of training dogs and also, um, client services.
S3 (14:27):
That's that's right. Sorry. Harriet. Yeah, I should have mentioned that. Um, yeah.
So our instructors, we are, um, it is a people job. Um,
people often will focus on, on the dog because that's
what they see as the mobility aid. But this this
is absolutely a people first job. So, um, our instructors
are teaching people to orientate and navigate either that's with
(14:49):
the O&M orientation mobility services. And our Seeing Eye dog
instructors will teach people to orientate and mobilize with the
dog as the aide. So that's that's what we do.
S2 (15:01):
So you mentioned earlier there is a conference as well.
For example, coming up, can you tell us a little
bit about the conference?
S3 (15:06):
Yeah, absolutely. So let me just get the dates out
for you. So we have I guess first of all,
we've got International Guide Dog Day, which this year will be,
will it be. It's normally on the third Wednesday of
every April. So I have to do a quick calendar
check and work out when that is. Um, and then
(15:30):
we also have our, we have a conference every two years.
And this year um, Guide Dogs UK are hosting that
and it will be at Warwick, which is a university
town and campus. And the conference is open to all
member programs, all applicant member programs. And it's really an
opportunity for us to come together and meet and greets.
(15:51):
And there's so much that people can learn from each
other during these conferences. A lot of a lot of
lifelong working friendships are formed. At a lot of the
time at these conferences. Um, it it will feature a
range of speakers, workshops, plenary sessions on all aspects of
our sector and we have award ceremonies for the Derek
Freeman Scholarship. For people who are not aware, Derek Freeman was,
(16:15):
oh gosh, such a legendary figure in establishing breeding programmes,
specific breeding programmes for our work purpose bred dogs. And
his daughter Helen is still working in in the breeding
area in the UK. So we do have a scholarship
for Derek every year for people to learn about, um,
more about breeding and the Ken Lord Award, which is
(16:38):
a lifelong award, um, for for people who've contributed more
than 25 years in the industry. Um, and we do
have the Dorothy Award, which is the award for the
best sort of marketing, um, you know, marketing campaign, those
marketing campaigns, the last one that won it was, um,
(16:58):
I think it was Guide Dogs Australia who put a
fantastic campaign together about access for clients. It's one of
the challenges that every member program in every country faces.
And they did. They put a fantastic, um, act together around, um,
access refusals and what that can mean for people. It
was really compelling. So yeah. Um, so yeah, that that
(17:20):
conference will be held, uh, 19th to the 22nd of June. Um,
and it is it is for industry professionals. Um, and
we are anticipating that, um, I think that we've got
a training workshop that's being held afterwards, which is similar
to the one that we ran at Vision Australia prior
to Christmas that's currently sold out. And, um, yeah, the
(17:44):
the tickets for the conference are in hot demand. It's
only been open for a month, but I think the
conference has nearly sold out too. So yeah. So we're
we're all as industry professionals, we're all really looking forward
to coming together, learning more, uh, learning from each other
in different countries. Um, and yeah, things we can do
differently and better.
S2 (18:04):
And seeing eye dogs. Um, but attending or presenting or or.
S4 (18:09):
Yes, we are, we are. We've had two presentations.
S3 (18:12):
Um, accepted. So we will be presenting on two items.
I won't sort of spoil the fun. And because people
may want to come on and talk about the presentations later. Um,
but one of them is around some of the early
work that we've been doing with puppies in our program.
And one is, one is more a client focused, um, presentation. So, yeah,
(18:32):
we'll definitely be represented well at the conference.
S2 (18:35):
Well, a nice little teaser and hopefully, um, kind of
getting closer. We can get some, you know, inside scoop
or even maybe afterwards maybe, maybe we get the feedback
from that.
S4 (18:48):
Oh yeah.
S3 (18:48):
So we've got I think Martin is presenting one and Lester,
our client services manager, is presenting the other ones, so. Yeah.
S2 (18:56):
Cool. I mean, it'll be very, very, very exciting to
share all of that information with them, with the world,
I'm sure. Um. I'm sure they're quite thrilled about that opportunity.
S3 (19:06):
Um, well, I think there's nothing more terrifying than presenting
to your peers, actually. Um, yeah, I did it at
the the Assistance Dogs International conference, and, um, there was
some real legendary figures. I was absolutely terrified, I'll be honest.
But it was okay.
S2 (19:26):
Easier to present to people that don't know what they're
talking about.
S3 (19:29):
Oh, look, it's just when you're presenting to people who've
been your role model and Ken Ramirez was there, who, um,
is arguably the best trainer in the world. And, um,
Jane Rosenberger and Alden were there, you know, who the
best canine geneticists and responsible for international working dog registry. So, um, yeah,
(19:51):
it was it was really quite frightening, actually. Um, but, uh,
you know, the other side of that is people want
you to be successful. So that's, that's it's a support.
It's a friendly crowd.
S2 (20:03):
Yeah, I was going to say every everyone. You know,
it sounds all from what you said. You know, it's
a really, like you said, collaborative atmosphere. And we're all
working for the same cause and for the greater good.
And so, you know, everyone's there to support and make
each other better and develop better, you know, offerings for
clients and that type of stuff. So yeah. Very cool. Yeah.
S3 (20:23):
It was it was good. And, um, just just on
that actually, Chris Muldoon, doctor Chris Muldoon, um, has also
presented his thesis. He presented his work that he's done
for his PhD around grief and loss, when clients will
experience when, um, you know, when transitioning from one working
dog to another or their retired dog has sadly died. So, yeah.
(20:47):
So there's um, that's that work and presentation is available
as well if people are interested. So Chris has done
some really good work on that. Amazing.
S2 (20:57):
Well, just to finish off, is there anything else that
you would like to share with us about any any
of the. Yeah. Well, anything I guess.
S3 (21:05):
Oh, gosh. Um, yeah. I mean, there's always something interesting
to talk about seeing eye dogs. We, uh. Yeah, we. Yeah,
I won't sort of go on, but. Yeah, we've got
a we're doing a lot of work. We're doing a
lot of collaborative work with other organizations. Um, I guess, uh,
recently I've been pretty humbled to be appointed to Integra
(21:28):
Service Dogs Board. So, um. Wow.
S2 (21:32):
Congratulations. It's so exciting. Yeah.
S3 (21:34):
Thank you. Big, big job. And I hope I can
do it. Well, um, you know, the work that that
organization does for first responders and veterans living with post-traumatic
stress disorder is, is very compelling. People may not know
that we will provide some of our dogs that aren't
suitable to become dog guides, but they're, um, entirely suitable
(21:56):
to to post-traumatic stress disorder work. Um, we will provide
some of our dogs to that the organization. So we've
got a very strong working relationship with Integra Service dogs.
So yeah. Um, so we're really strengthening that relationship going
forward into the future. Um, I will learn a lot
from being on that board because, um, there's, you know,
(22:19):
there's representatives from Department of Veterans Affairs and, um, a
whole sector that I'm absolutely lacking experience in working with.
So I'm going to learn a lot too, which hopefully
I can bring to my role at Vision Australia. Um,
the purpose of me being there is, is to provide
assistance with, um, just industry operational experience as well for
(22:42):
the organisation. So, yeah. Um, so looking back this year.
S2 (22:47):
Well, they're lucky to have you and I am glad
that we can help find some amazing careers for our
dogs that are lovely, but not quite suited for guiding.
S3 (22:56):
Yeah, I like to call them purposeful placements. So yeah,
they're not, um, yeah, they're The wonderful dogs. We just
need to find the right job for them with the
right people.
S2 (23:06):
Yeah. Well, thank you so much for coming on the
show and talking about. Yeah. So many amazing things coming
up this year. So it sounds like it'll be. Yeah.
Quite exciting.
S3 (23:18):
Thanks, Harriet. And wish me luck with moose and my
new dog. And as as I said, thank. Thank you
again so much to all our volunteers out there working
with the dogs. Um, yeah. Every day I think about
you as I'm wrestling with moose, my new dog. So, yeah. Um,
a truly heartfelt thank you to everybody doing that work.
(23:39):
Thank you.
S2 (23:40):
Well, thank you, and good luck with moose.
S3 (23:43):
I'll need it.
S5 (23:50):
Hi there. I'm Michaela. I'm one of the instructors based
in New South Wales. I'm really excited to share that
the Seeing Eye Dogs Roadshow is going to be heading
around the regional areas of New South Wales this coming March.
After the success of this road show in Sydney back
in November 2024. At the Road Show, there'll be the
(24:10):
opportunity to talk to the two New South Wales based
instructors to have a chat about seeing eye dog mobility,
what it involves, what the differences are between having a
seeing eye dog, using a long cane, or potentially currently
using no mobility aid. Um, there'll also be some wonderful
seeing eye dogs there that you can meet to cuddle,
of course, but also to have the opportunity to take
(24:32):
for a trial walk. So that will involve doing a
small walk around the local area, um, to feel what
it feels like to actually be guided by a dog guide.
The road show is open to current handlers that are
looking for support or guidance. Um, anyone that's interested in
finding out more about seeing eye dogs as a mobility
(24:54):
aid and also friends, families and support workers of those
who are blind or have low vision that might be
interested in using a seeing eye dog now or in
the future after attending the roadshow. There is absolutely no
pressure to then apply for a seeing eye dog. It's
simply just an opportunity to explore that form of mobility aid.
Of course, if you are interested in applying, then the
(25:16):
instructors there on the day will be able to go
through the process with you and support you through the
process of applying to be a seeing eye dog handler.
We've got seven locations for the roadshow coming up in March.
It'll be Monday, March the 10th in Port Macquarie. Tuesday,
March 11th in Coffs Harbour. Wednesday, 12th of March in
(25:38):
Tweed Heads. Tuesday the 18th of March in Canberra. Wednesday
the 19th of March in Wollongong. Monday the 24th of
March in Gosford. And Tuesday the 25th of March in Newcastle.
All of the sessions begin at 10:30 a.m. and will
run until approximately 130 in the afternoon, and there will
(26:00):
be refreshments provided as well. If anyone's interested in attending,
you can register via the website or you can email
said clients at Vision Australia. Org. So please do register
and we hope to see you there.
S1 (26:23):
You've been listening to these Seeing Eye dog show on
Vision Australia Radio. I hope you enjoyed my interview with
Seeing Eye Dogs manager of Puppy Development Jane Bradley. For
more information on International Guiding Federation and the upcoming conference,
head to their website at igadf. Org.uk. If you'd like
to learn about seeing eye dogs, the work we do,
becoming a handler, or supporting us, head to our website
(26:45):
at Sydney Vision australia.org. We're looking for puppy carers in
select regions across New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. It's
a rewarding role raising puppies with training and support provided
and costs including the puppies, food, equipment and vet care
covered by Seeing Eye dogs. Head to our website for
the areas and other information, or attend our upcoming information
(27:09):
session online for all states on Wednesday, March 12th from
6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Australian Eastern Daylight Time, which
is Queensland and New South Wales, or 5 to 6 p.m.
Queensland or Australian Eastern Standard Time. You can register via
the link on our website at Sydney Vision Australia. Org
(27:30):
forward slash volunteer forward slash information sessions. You can Google
seeing it, public hearing information sessions and a Google will
do the rest for you too. Don't forget to tune
in same time next week for another episode of the
Seeing Eye Dog Show. Now, to finish off the show,
here's a reminder from New South Wales based singer instructor
Michaela Smith about the New South Wales Act Roadshow coming
(27:52):
up in March 2025. Thanks for listening and have a
lovely week.
On Vision Australia Radio. You're listening to the Seeing Eye
dog show. With me, your host, Harriet Moffitt. On this interview,
I'm joined by puppy development manager Jane Bradley in our
first interview of the year together. Jane shares some reflections
on the transitions that dog owners, handlers and carers face
at the end of the journey that we have with
each dog, whether that be your pet guide or a
(00:33):
puppy in training. We also talk about International Guide Dog
Federation or Igrf, the work that they do in developing
members worldwide, and seeing Italy's role in that and the
collaborative nature of our industry, which is striving to improve
client and dog outcomes with continuous improvement in an ever
changing world. We also talk about the 2025 International Guide
(00:57):
Dog Federation Conference coming up in June of 2025. You
can find out more about IGF at GDF. Org.uk. And
now I hope you enjoy this interview.
S2 (01:17):
Hi Jane, thanks for joining me on the show today.
S3 (01:19):
Good morning Harriet. Good to chat with you again. Yeah.
Happy New Year to you.
S2 (01:23):
Happy new year. Could you please start off by introducing yourself?
S3 (01:27):
Yeah, sure. Um, so my name is Jane Bradley. Um,
I work for Vision Australia and currently working in the
puppy development and customer service area.
S2 (01:37):
I'm going to talk a little bit about GDF later.
Could you tell us a bit about what your role
is at GDF?
S3 (01:43):
Yes of course. Yeah. I currently chair the development committee
for International Guide Dog Federation, and that committee is responsible
for um, professional standard setting for dog guide organisations helping
new and emerging applicant organisations to work through the standards
(02:04):
Its procedure and get them ready for accreditation and their
first assessment.
S2 (02:10):
Well, we will hear a bit more about the GDF later.
It sounds like you've got quite a lot on your plate.
S3 (02:18):
Uh, well, there is that saying. If you find a
job you love, you never work a day in your life.
And I would certainly say that applies to me.
S2 (02:27):
So I think the last time we spoke was last year.
So we're kind of, I guess kicking, kicking off 2025.
What's happened in the last, you know, year? Are there
any updates or thoughts that you'd like to share?
S3 (02:40):
Yeah. Um, well, I guess the most recent one, Vision Australia,
graduated a record number of people with their new dog guide,
which is absolutely fantastic. And we managed to reduce the
waiting time for a new dog to approximately 12 weeks,
which is pretty amazing. So yeah, pretty pretty amazing. So
what that means is people who are waiting for a
(03:01):
successor dog, or even people who are new to us
were able to come in and receive their services pretty quickly.
So the team have done absolutely amazing work with that.
And um, yeah, it just it just means that everything's
running a lot smoother for our clients, which is what
we're all about. Um, yeah. So that that was one
of our major, major achievements, I think. Um, in addition
(03:24):
to some of the fundraising activity that we did, the
Petbarn campaign, I think smashed huge number. Um, yeah. So
lots of big pieces of work that we did. Um,
I guess just from my perspective, I did write a
LinkedIn post before Christmas. I had a bit of a
transition myself. I, um, lost my pet dog, Reggie, who's
(03:44):
been with me for 17 years, and in that time
he's seen, gosh, he's been the decoy dog for so
many dog training sessions. He's appeared in multiple test databases.
S2 (03:57):
He's really been a model.
S3 (03:59):
He. Yeah, he's he's, um, he's really contributed to the
to the work in many ways, which is not bad
for a little rescue dog from the animal shelter. Um,
but I guess, um, the reason I'm bringing this up
is it's just that transition time is one year ends
and another year starts. And this, this chapter in my
(04:19):
life where, um, you know, one dog has, has died
sadly and welcoming a new dog into into my life,
which is another rescue dog called moose. Um, and as
that happens, I just really made me think about all
the transitions. You know, our clients working with the dog
that may be due for retirement, and all the trepidation
(04:39):
and worry that comes with a new dog and will.
I love the new dog the same? And will this
dog be as good as my last dog? Because I'm
sort of thinking no dog can ever be as good
as Reggie. Reggie was the best dog ever. Um, and
it also has really made me think, because this this
dog I've got, um, he's a he's a young dog.
He's only 12 months old. And it just has really
(05:01):
made me think. Hats off to all our volunteer people
raising puppies out there for us, doing amazing work. Um,
because I'd completely forgotten about all the puppy biting and
biting your ankles and, um, you know, chomping of your
hand and, uh, grabbing the leash. It's all these. All
these puppy things that puppies like to do. So I
(05:21):
just want to say a massive thank you to everybody
out there, um, who's housing a dog for our program
and raising these wonderful dogs for clients.
S2 (05:30):
I just wanted to say Reggie will really be missed
by all of us. And sorry for your loss.
S3 (05:34):
Oh. Thank you. Thank you. Yeah. Yeah, it's part of
part of life, I suppose, isn't it, when we love
our animals. So. Yeah.
S2 (05:41):
I do know a few volunteer carers that, um, have
said they, they do like the fact that they only
have the young dog. They don't have to deal with
the end, which, um, I guess is a is a
very interesting perspective on it, but makes sense because if
you are dealing with a puppy stage, you know, you
maybe don't get the lovely senior years, which, um, are
definitely to be cherished. But the goodbye is a very
interesting one. But transitions at any point are inevitable, I
(06:03):
guess you say?
S3 (06:04):
Yeah. Yeah. It is part of life, isn't it? Transitions
and how we try and go through them gracefully. But they. Yeah, it's, um,
it is a part of life. I remember, um, John Gosling,
who's a real role model in our industry. Many people
will know him. He always used to say to me, um, Jane,
there's a dog for every decade. So every time a
client came back to us for a new dog, he
(06:27):
would say, oh, you know, there's a there's the right
dog for every decade. And I always thought that was
really good advice. So yeah, it's it's interesting. So yeah.
So I've currently got moose and um, he is a
giant and ridiculous dog who doesn't know his own size.
So he's really quite entertaining. He went to the office
for the first time yesterday because we're very fortunate at
(06:47):
Vision Australia, providing our dogs are suitable temperament. There's space
in the office for training dogs and we obviously all
the right vaccinations. We can take our dogs in from
time to time. So moose went to our office yesterday
for the first time and he thought it was fantastic.
The bones, dog beds everywhere. Um.
S2 (07:05):
Entertaining people.
S3 (07:07):
Yeah. Oh, he met all the team. Um, he met Kim,
who's one of our senior trainers. He met all the
office staff, um, Monette, who many people will have spoken
to on the phone. Um, he just had the best
day ever, I think.
S2 (07:22):
So, going back to a more seeing eye dog or
guide dog industry. Want to talk a bit about the IGF?
So International Judo Federation. Can you tell us a bit
about the IGF and what it is. What's the purpose.
S3 (07:35):
Yeah of course. So the International Guide Dog Federation or
IGF as we call it, it's a membership body and
a professional standard setter for the dog guide organizations. And
we've been operating since 1989. And we also provide support
and services to our member programs. Um, we are very
(07:57):
invested in quality improvement and making sure that, um, our
organizations receive support and services from more established organisations, and
we collect information in in the format of an annual
report every year from our organisations to track and analyze
trends within the sector. And we've currently got 99 member
(08:22):
organisations who are accredited from 33 countries across the world. Yeah,
it's a lot and I'll just on that as well.
We're hoping that Guide Dogs Singapore, who is one of
the organisations we've been helping for a long time, I've
been working with them on development committee and we're hoping
that they'll become the 100th accredited programme, which would be
(08:45):
really exciting because they're ready now for their accreditation and
we've allocated an assessor. So we big, you know, fingers
crossed for Guide Dog Singapore. So we're hoping they'll be
our 100th 100th member programme which would be really exciting.
S2 (08:59):
And does that mean you guys at least you know,
in IGF have a little party or have some cake
or something, because I feel like you should celebrate that
in a formal way, you know? Yeah.
S3 (09:08):
We will. We'll find a way to celebrate it. We'll
have to eat virtual cake. I mean, if yeah, maybe,
maybe at the conference, which is something else I want
to talk about later. But we will be getting together
in person this year, so there'll definitely be a celebration
on that. Yeah. It's good. Um, yeah. So we're we're
working with, um, I think we've just had a couple more, actually.
We're working with about 20 applicant organizations from six countries. Um,
(09:33):
we've got 7 or 8. Eight. We got one through
last night from Czechoslovakia. So eight inquiring organizations from another
three countries and five affiliate organizations. And, um, just some
fun facts for people who like them. There's 19,557 dogs
(09:55):
currently working with their people. Um, as of the 31st
of December.
S2 (09:59):
Can you please repeat that figure just one time? Yeah.
S3 (10:03):
557.
S2 (10:05):
Wow. And those are all, you know, guide dogs or
seeing eye dogs from other organizations across the world.
S3 (10:11):
Oh, that's that's dogs working with their people. Yeah. Working
with their client. Yeah. Amazing. Yeah. And we've got about
794 qualified instructors, about 200 and 252 trainee instructors, um,
241 trainers and individual volunteers. We've got approximately 40,000 supporting
(10:38):
programs across the world. So, again, you know, huge collaboration
and a huge amount of giving that people do to
to make sure that our wonderful dogs get the work
and care that they need and that our clients can
receive those quality services.
S2 (10:53):
I mean, it's amazing kind of that coming together part
of your life and your work there. Sorry to interrupt you.
S3 (10:59):
Oh, no, I was just going to say, and if
people are interested, just jump on the website, which is
w Igfa. Org.uk. About us. And there's a lot of
great information on there that people can see. You don't
need to be a member to access a lot of
that information. So yeah, go and have a look around.
It's interesting.
S2 (11:18):
And so what is, um, like seeing eye dogs as
kind of role in in helping other organizations.
S3 (11:25):
Well, we, we at Vision Australia we're a big believer
in collaboration. It's it's one of our organizational values. And
we are a fairly established organization. We obviously the largest
national services provider in Australia for people who are blind
or have low vision. And our Seeing Eye Dog program
has been established, um, for 60 years, 60 odd years.
(11:50):
I think this year we'll be having our 65th anniversary, actually.
So watch this space for some more celebrations there. Um,
so when we this is before my time, but when
we were starting out, we were very fortunate to receive
help and assistance from other member schools, Guide Dogs UK
(12:10):
and other schools around Australia and around the world. And
then we are a big believer in paying that back
and paying it forward. So now it's our turn to
really help those emerging schools. So some of the things
we've done, um, and we've got an example at the
moment is we have a, um, a trainee instructor called Shaolin,
(12:31):
and she's been staying with us for the past two
years to do her traineeship with us at Vision Australia.
And when she completes her training, she'll go back and
go back to her, um, her program, which is Guide
Dog Singapore. So what that means, um, is that Guide
Dog Singapore will have two qualified instructors to deliver services
(12:52):
to the people of Singapore that need them. Um, guide dogs.
Victoria actually trained the previous instructor, so they've got two instructors,
Christina and Shaolin. And, uh, there's also an orientation and
mobility instructor there. So it's really just developing the education
quality service provision that people need and where we can
(13:14):
assist as a more established program. We absolutely will do that.
S2 (13:19):
It's very cool. And I guess, um, kind of important
to note too, that, you know, whilst she's, um, whilst
she has been here working with us, she's also been,
you know, training dogs that have been matched with our
clients too. And, um, you know, so it's it's very
much like, you know, a kind of collaborative effort too,
in the fact that, yeah, those those dogs that she's, um,
(13:39):
kind of worked with as part of her traineeship are
also still, um, yeah, going on to do important stuff.
So it's kind of cool. It's like learning on the job. Um, yeah, absolutely.
S3 (13:50):
And yeah, it is, um, you know, we are quite
a niche industry in a way. Um, there's there's less
than a thousand instructors in the world. And so, yes,
definitely part of the learning we can do online. Um,
but part of it is just getting stuck in and
doing the job. And, um, as you say, doing that
on the job training so where we can support and
(14:12):
assist to grow that, that group of instructors, we absolutely
will do that.
S2 (14:18):
And for anyone who's not aware, an instructor is a
person that works with both the train, uh, both kind
of training dogs and also, um, client services.
S3 (14:27):
That's that's right. Sorry. Harriet. Yeah, I should have mentioned that. Um, yeah.
So our instructors, we are, um, it is a people job. Um,
people often will focus on, on the dog because that's
what they see as the mobility aid. But this this
is absolutely a people first job. So, um, our instructors
are teaching people to orientate and navigate either that's with
(14:49):
the O&M orientation mobility services. And our Seeing Eye dog
instructors will teach people to orientate and mobilize with the
dog as the aide. So that's that's what we do.
S2 (15:01):
So you mentioned earlier there is a conference as well.
For example, coming up, can you tell us a little
bit about the conference?
S3 (15:06):
Yeah, absolutely. So let me just get the dates out
for you. So we have I guess first of all,
we've got International Guide Dog Day, which this year will be,
will it be. It's normally on the third Wednesday of
every April. So I have to do a quick calendar
check and work out when that is. Um, and then
(15:30):
we also have our, we have a conference every two years.
And this year um, Guide Dogs UK are hosting that
and it will be at Warwick, which is a university
town and campus. And the conference is open to all
member programs, all applicant member programs. And it's really an
opportunity for us to come together and meet and greets.
(15:51):
And there's so much that people can learn from each
other during these conferences. A lot of a lot of
lifelong working friendships are formed. At a lot of the
time at these conferences. Um, it it will feature a
range of speakers, workshops, plenary sessions on all aspects of
our sector and we have award ceremonies for the Derek
Freeman Scholarship. For people who are not aware, Derek Freeman was,
(16:15):
oh gosh, such a legendary figure in establishing breeding programmes,
specific breeding programmes for our work purpose bred dogs. And
his daughter Helen is still working in in the breeding
area in the UK. So we do have a scholarship
for Derek every year for people to learn about, um,
more about breeding and the Ken Lord Award, which is
(16:38):
a lifelong award, um, for for people who've contributed more
than 25 years in the industry. Um, and we do
have the Dorothy Award, which is the award for the
best sort of marketing, um, you know, marketing campaign, those
marketing campaigns, the last one that won it was, um,
(16:58):
I think it was Guide Dogs Australia who put a
fantastic campaign together about access for clients. It's one of
the challenges that every member program in every country faces.
And they did. They put a fantastic, um, act together around, um,
access refusals and what that can mean for people. It
was really compelling. So yeah. Um, so yeah, that that
(17:20):
conference will be held, uh, 19th to the 22nd of June. Um,
and it is it is for industry professionals. Um, and
we are anticipating that, um, I think that we've got
a training workshop that's being held afterwards, which is similar
to the one that we ran at Vision Australia prior
to Christmas that's currently sold out. And, um, yeah, the
(17:44):
the tickets for the conference are in hot demand. It's
only been open for a month, but I think the
conference has nearly sold out too. So yeah. So we're
we're all as industry professionals, we're all really looking forward
to coming together, learning more, uh, learning from each other
in different countries. Um, and yeah, things we can do
differently and better.
S2 (18:04):
And seeing eye dogs. Um, but attending or presenting or or.
S4 (18:09):
Yes, we are, we are. We've had two presentations.
S3 (18:12):
Um, accepted. So we will be presenting on two items.
I won't sort of spoil the fun. And because people
may want to come on and talk about the presentations later. Um,
but one of them is around some of the early
work that we've been doing with puppies in our program.
And one is, one is more a client focused, um, presentation. So, yeah,
(18:32):
we'll definitely be represented well at the conference.
S2 (18:35):
Well, a nice little teaser and hopefully, um, kind of
getting closer. We can get some, you know, inside scoop
or even maybe afterwards maybe, maybe we get the feedback
from that.
S4 (18:48):
Oh yeah.
S3 (18:48):
So we've got I think Martin is presenting one and Lester,
our client services manager, is presenting the other ones, so. Yeah.
S2 (18:56):
Cool. I mean, it'll be very, very, very exciting to
share all of that information with them, with the world,
I'm sure. Um. I'm sure they're quite thrilled about that opportunity.
S3 (19:06):
Um, well, I think there's nothing more terrifying than presenting
to your peers, actually. Um, yeah, I did it at
the the Assistance Dogs International conference, and, um, there was
some real legendary figures. I was absolutely terrified, I'll be honest.
But it was okay.
S2 (19:26):
Easier to present to people that don't know what they're
talking about.
S3 (19:29):
Oh, look, it's just when you're presenting to people who've
been your role model and Ken Ramirez was there, who, um,
is arguably the best trainer in the world. And, um,
Jane Rosenberger and Alden were there, you know, who the
best canine geneticists and responsible for international working dog registry. So, um, yeah,
(19:51):
it was it was really quite frightening, actually. Um, but, uh,
you know, the other side of that is people want
you to be successful. So that's, that's it's a support.
It's a friendly crowd.
S2 (20:03):
Yeah, I was going to say every everyone. You know,
it sounds all from what you said. You know, it's
a really, like you said, collaborative atmosphere. And we're all
working for the same cause and for the greater good.
And so, you know, everyone's there to support and make
each other better and develop better, you know, offerings for
clients and that type of stuff. So yeah. Very cool. Yeah.
S3 (20:23):
It was it was good. And, um, just just on
that actually, Chris Muldoon, doctor Chris Muldoon, um, has also
presented his thesis. He presented his work that he's done
for his PhD around grief and loss, when clients will
experience when, um, you know, when transitioning from one working
dog to another or their retired dog has sadly died. So, yeah.
(20:47):
So there's um, that's that work and presentation is available
as well if people are interested. So Chris has done
some really good work on that. Amazing.
S2 (20:57):
Well, just to finish off, is there anything else that
you would like to share with us about any any
of the. Yeah. Well, anything I guess.
S3 (21:05):
Oh, gosh. Um, yeah. I mean, there's always something interesting
to talk about seeing eye dogs. We, uh. Yeah, we. Yeah,
I won't sort of go on, but. Yeah, we've got
a we're doing a lot of work. We're doing a
lot of collaborative work with other organizations. Um, I guess, uh,
recently I've been pretty humbled to be appointed to Integra
(21:28):
Service Dogs Board. So, um. Wow.
S2 (21:32):
Congratulations. It's so exciting. Yeah.
S3 (21:34):
Thank you. Big, big job. And I hope I can
do it. Well, um, you know, the work that that
organization does for first responders and veterans living with post-traumatic
stress disorder is, is very compelling. People may not know
that we will provide some of our dogs that aren't
suitable to become dog guides, but they're, um, entirely suitable
(21:56):
to to post-traumatic stress disorder work. Um, we will provide
some of our dogs to that the organization. So we've
got a very strong working relationship with Integra Service dogs.
So yeah. Um, so we're really strengthening that relationship going
forward into the future. Um, I will learn a lot
from being on that board because, um, there's, you know,
(22:19):
there's representatives from Department of Veterans Affairs and, um, a
whole sector that I'm absolutely lacking experience in working with.
So I'm going to learn a lot too, which hopefully
I can bring to my role at Vision Australia. Um,
the purpose of me being there is, is to provide
assistance with, um, just industry operational experience as well for
(22:42):
the organisation. So, yeah. Um, so looking back this year.
S2 (22:47):
Well, they're lucky to have you and I am glad
that we can help find some amazing careers for our
dogs that are lovely, but not quite suited for guiding.
S3 (22:56):
Yeah, I like to call them purposeful placements. So yeah,
they're not, um, yeah, they're The wonderful dogs. We just
need to find the right job for them with the
right people.
S2 (23:06):
Yeah. Well, thank you so much for coming on the
show and talking about. Yeah. So many amazing things coming
up this year. So it sounds like it'll be. Yeah.
Quite exciting.
S3 (23:18):
Thanks, Harriet. And wish me luck with moose and my
new dog. And as as I said, thank. Thank you
again so much to all our volunteers out there working
with the dogs. Um, yeah. Every day I think about
you as I'm wrestling with moose, my new dog. So, yeah. Um,
a truly heartfelt thank you to everybody doing that work.
(23:39):
Thank you.
S2 (23:40):
Well, thank you, and good luck with moose.
S3 (23:43):
I'll need it.
S5 (23:50):
Hi there. I'm Michaela. I'm one of the instructors based
in New South Wales. I'm really excited to share that
the Seeing Eye Dogs Roadshow is going to be heading
around the regional areas of New South Wales this coming March.
After the success of this road show in Sydney back
in November 2024. At the Road Show, there'll be the
(24:10):
opportunity to talk to the two New South Wales based
instructors to have a chat about seeing eye dog mobility,
what it involves, what the differences are between having a
seeing eye dog, using a long cane, or potentially currently
using no mobility aid. Um, there'll also be some wonderful
seeing eye dogs there that you can meet to cuddle,
of course, but also to have the opportunity to take
(24:32):
for a trial walk. So that will involve doing a
small walk around the local area, um, to feel what
it feels like to actually be guided by a dog guide.
The road show is open to current handlers that are
looking for support or guidance. Um, anyone that's interested in
finding out more about seeing eye dogs as a mobility
(24:54):
aid and also friends, families and support workers of those
who are blind or have low vision that might be
interested in using a seeing eye dog now or in
the future after attending the roadshow. There is absolutely no
pressure to then apply for a seeing eye dog. It's
simply just an opportunity to explore that form of mobility aid.
Of course, if you are interested in applying, then the
(25:16):
instructors there on the day will be able to go
through the process with you and support you through the
process of applying to be a seeing eye dog handler.
We've got seven locations for the roadshow coming up in March.
It'll be Monday, March the 10th in Port Macquarie. Tuesday,
March 11th in Coffs Harbour. Wednesday, 12th of March in
(25:38):
Tweed Heads. Tuesday the 18th of March in Canberra. Wednesday
the 19th of March in Wollongong. Monday the 24th of
March in Gosford. And Tuesday the 25th of March in Newcastle.
All of the sessions begin at 10:30 a.m. and will
run until approximately 130 in the afternoon, and there will
(26:00):
be refreshments provided as well. If anyone's interested in attending,
you can register via the website or you can email
said clients at Vision Australia. Org. So please do register
and we hope to see you there.
S1 (26:23):
You've been listening to these Seeing Eye dog show on
Vision Australia Radio. I hope you enjoyed my interview with
Seeing Eye Dogs manager of Puppy Development Jane Bradley. For
more information on International Guiding Federation and the upcoming conference,
head to their website at igadf. Org.uk. If you'd like
to learn about seeing eye dogs, the work we do,
becoming a handler, or supporting us, head to our website
(26:45):
at Sydney Vision australia.org. We're looking for puppy carers in
select regions across New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. It's
a rewarding role raising puppies with training and support provided
and costs including the puppies, food, equipment and vet care
covered by Seeing Eye dogs. Head to our website for
the areas and other information, or attend our upcoming information
(27:09):
session online for all states on Wednesday, March 12th from
6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Australian Eastern Daylight Time, which
is Queensland and New South Wales, or 5 to 6 p.m.
Queensland or Australian Eastern Standard Time. You can register via
the link on our website at Sydney Vision Australia. Org
(27:30):
forward slash volunteer forward slash information sessions. You can Google
seeing it, public hearing information sessions and a Google will
do the rest for you too. Don't forget to tune
in same time next week for another episode of the
Seeing Eye Dog Show. Now, to finish off the show,
here's a reminder from New South Wales based singer instructor
Michaela Smith about the New South Wales Act Roadshow coming
(27:52):
up in March 2025. Thanks for listening and have a
lovely week.
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