June 2, 2025 • 28 mins
On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by puppy carer Catherine Bentley to talk about her life and story as a busy working mum and experienced puppy carer. We discuss raising puppies working on a university campus, what's to love about this volunteering role and what a Seeing Eye Dogs puppy learns from attending lots of busy kids' sporting commitments. Volunteers help prepare puppies for working roles as Seeing Eye Dogs, so here's some behind the scenes of how our puppies gain essential skills in their first year thanks to our amazing carers like Catherine.
If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/
We are looking for puppy carers now so if you're keen to raise a puppy to hopefully become a Seeing Eye Dog we'd like to hear from you! It's an incredibly rewarding experience, with training provided. Carers need time, patience and love to give to a puppy, so if you want to commit to a year of puppy raising, we would love your help. We're looking for carers now in parts of Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales listed on our website. Get in touch to find out about volunteering with us or apply now via our website.
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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 Eric Moffatt. Today I
am joined by Seeing Eye Dogs puppy carer Kath Bentley
from the Geelong region, who is going to be talking
to us about her life and her journey as a carer.
Kath is a busy mum and she takes her seeing
eye dog puppies alongside her family commitments swotting throughout the
(00:36):
week and to work as well. So we're going to
be talking a bit about life of a seeing eye,
dogs puppy in a busy life and how puppy caring
fits in with a bunch of different lifestyles. For our
lovely carers, puppy caring is an amazing thing to do.
It's a really rewarding volunteer experience and as we close
off our May volunteer month, we'd like to give a
(00:58):
massive thank you to all of our volunteers who contribute
in so many ways to seeing Eye our dogs and
our mission to support people who are blind or have
low vision. So without further ado, let's hear a volunteer
story from the wonderful Cath Bentley. Thank you for listening. Hi.
(01:23):
Thanks for joining me on the show today.
S2 (01:25):
That's okay. Very welcome.
S1 (01:28):
Could you please start off by introducing yourself?
S2 (01:31):
Sure. Hi, Harriet. My name is Cath Bentley. Um, I
live in East Geelong, in Victoria. We have a lovely
family of four. So there's myself, my hubby. Um, I
have a daughter who is 15 years old and a
son who is 12. We also have a five year
old dog called Luna, who is a crazy Hungarian Vizsla,
(01:52):
and we have two rabbits who are. They're about three
years old and one of those rabbits. I do think
she thinks she's a dog, so she likes to hang
around all the girls Band and play, which is pretty cute.
Pretty cute. I actually work at a local TAFE. The
Gordon TAFE, which I love. Um, a few of my
(02:13):
passions of course. The. Seeing eye dogs, um, doing foster
care relief as well. I love Egyptology and probably watching
my kids play sport. I love watching them do that.
So that's a little bit about myself.
S1 (02:27):
The Egyptology is a is a new one. Is that
part do you work in any history fields as well,
or is that just a complete passion?
S2 (02:35):
It's just a complete passion. I've always loved Egypt, so
I don't know where it comes from. I think my pop,
my English grandfather, actually fought over there in the war. Yeah.
And so he, um, there was a story that he
went to the Egyptian zoo and let out a lion
and then went into a cage or something, put a
(02:56):
flag up with the British flag. So maybe that's where
that comes from. I'm not quite sure, but. Yes. Uh,
I've been to Egypt and loved it. Yes.
S1 (03:06):
I think freeing some or going into a lion enclosure
is definitely brave. Um, I'm not sure if it's what
I would do.
S2 (03:13):
No, I wouldn't do that either.
S1 (03:16):
So what is your volunteer role at Seeing Eye Dogs,
and how long have you been volunteering?
S2 (03:21):
Um, so my role, um, is a full time puppy carer. Um,
and I also love doing foster care relief. So I
would happily take, you know, 6 or 7 dogs if
I could. Um, I've been a volunteer since about 2022,
so I actually, um, applied before, just before Covid. So
(03:42):
we didn't have any contact for a while, um, during Covid, um,
and then in 2022, I got an email to say, um,
a puppy was ready. So I've applied straight away for
that one. Yes, please. Yay! So yeah, it's been a
while now.
S1 (03:59):
It took quite a while for carers to get new
puppies like during Covid. It was a very strange experience
that we had such a long waitlist because people were
really home. It was the perfect time to start and
I know even like experienced carers were kind of waiting
and we'd never really had to wait before. It was
always the accepted thing of, you know, you give one
puppy back and you get another one straight away.
S2 (04:20):
Yeah, it was a long wait.
S1 (04:22):
Very strange.
S2 (04:23):
Very, very long wait. Although, you know, um, doing home
schooling during Covid probably wouldn't have given me the time anyway. Um,
and we had a guinea pig too, at that stage.
So we had a big household.
S1 (04:35):
And the two rabbits and Luna.
S2 (04:38):
Yes. Yep.
S1 (04:39):
So definitely you've got your kind of own mini petting
zoo there, at least.
S2 (04:44):
Yes we do. And, um, the more the merrier, I
would say.
S1 (04:49):
What made you decide to take up puppy caring?
S2 (04:53):
Well, um, it's something that, you know, you see it
on TV, you see the vans, you see how it's
really the puppies, how gorgeous they are. And thinking, oh,
we could. At one stage I looked at foster at
Fostering dogs. But I think that the reason why we
didn't do that is having young kids. At the time,
you don't know their background and their history. So I
(05:13):
didn't really I don't think we had the capacity to
introduce a dog who may have had issues, um, into
the family that we have. And it was a very
busy family, especially when the kids were a bit younger.
And it's funny because we went out for dinner, I think,
to Little Creatures, and I saw a lady and a
(05:34):
man with a puppy, and it was the cutest puppy
with the little Lerner jacket. And I've gone, I have
to go and talk to it. He's like, oh God,
not again. Any dog. Um, you know, I have tunnel
vision towards dogs. Um, and I started talking to them and,
and I said, oh, can I have a pet? And
they said, oh, thanks for asking, but no, you know, she's, um,
she's training. So we talked a little, little bit about it.
(05:57):
And then I went away going, oh no, I no. Yeah.
As everyone says. Oh, I couldn't give that back. That
puppy was so cute and everything, so I didn't think
much of it. And and not kidding. I would say
like a week later I was walking on campus because
I work at the local TAFE. Um, and there was
a lady with a larger guard dog. Obviously it was
probably about, you know, 6 or 7 months. And I
(06:20):
started talking to her about it and I said, could
I have a pet? And she actually said, yes, sure.
And so that threw me and I went, okay. She
took the jacket off and I had a little pet.
And then she was the same again, ask me questions,
you know, would you be interested and stuff? And I'm like,
oh no, I couldn't give it back. And she said, well,
I started off doing foster care relief. So then that
(06:41):
way you get used to a dog coming in and
out of the home. And I said, oh, okay. I said,
you know, with little kids, maybe that would work better
because then we're not committed to having a full time job.
And it's something that I really did want to do.
So came home, talked to hubby, and we said, okay, well,
why don't we just do that? And so that's how
we got started. Or originally, how it was going to
(07:03):
work was just then we could choose the times that
we could have, um, in between kid life and our
existing pets, um, you know, to have a puppy for
a week or a month and to be help helping
those who are actually doing the the full time puppy caring. Yeah.
So that's how we got into it. Um, and then
(07:24):
obviously we put our application in and we didn't get
any fosters because it was Covid. And so.
S1 (07:29):
Yeah, no one was, no one was going away, no
one needed a break. No.
S2 (07:33):
And I was waiting and waiting and waiting. And then, um,
we got the email to say, um, Miss Tibby was
ready if we wanted to take a full time pup.
So again, we were a bit hesitant. We said, why
don't we just take it for, you know, the four
weeks just to see how the kids react, how Luna reacts. Um,
and the rest is history. We did not give that
(07:53):
puppy back. It was, um, it was a beautiful journey. Um,
and it's something that I think once you start, you go,
I can give the dog back. It's not about me anymore.
It's about a really big picture that you know, you're
part of. And and I think that's what you have
to experience to learn, to learn that. And it's okay
(08:14):
to let a dog come in and to let it go.
And it's, um, you just want to be, you know,
get proud that you're doing the training to help. And then,
you know, we don't need that puppy. We've got our
own life. We've got our own dog. Um, yeah. So
that's how we sort of started it. And then it's
been a crazy four years or three. Um, when we
(08:37):
start 22. So three years. Yeah. And I look back
in those three years, we've done so much and it
really they, they just fill up your love tank and
you know, being able to have it. And I said
I'd have as many as I could. So yeah that's
how we got started.
S1 (08:52):
And kind of I guess going back to, well, going
forward to the present. Could you please tell us a
bit about your current dog?
S2 (09:00):
Uh, yes. So currently we have Miss Georgia. Um, she
is fearless and sweet and, um, very goofy. So she
keeps us on our toes. Um. She's determined. She's going
really well. Um, we actually had, um. My. She's my
fourth dog. Um, we had my third dog go in
(09:22):
a week ago. So we actually had both of them
for four months, sort of as a crossover. So, um, but, yeah,
it's good to get back onto the one on one training.
And she's licking my feet at the moment under the desk.
S1 (09:36):
Not sure how I feel about that. Is it affectionate?
Tell me.
S2 (09:39):
No, it's I think she's trying to tell me that
she wants a little biscuit. There you go. But, yeah,
it's amazing how different each dog is. And it's, you know,
you think you've got your training down pat, and then
the next one will show, show you something else that
you need to train on. And having your own dog. Um,
I've learned so much, and I think that I thought
I'd trained Luna before, you know. No. Definitely not. Um.
(10:04):
You know, and Paige, our puppy development trainer. She's amazing.
And she gives us so much advice and it just works.
So it's nice to have that support system in place.
It's not like he's a puppy. Just go and do it.
It's a real community. Mm.
S1 (10:20):
Um, and I guess you have seen I mean, you know,
we talk a little bit about like, in public hearing
in particular. You know, the goal isn't necessarily only kind
of guiding. You know, we have to just do our
best to raise a nice puppy. And at the end
of the day, it's going to be their choice. But
you have seen that real, I guess, the end product
and the success. Could you tell us a bit about, um,
(10:40):
you know, your previous puppy who graduated?
S2 (10:43):
I can um, so her name was Layla and she
graduated in October last year. Um, super proud of Layla.
She was a beautiful girl. Um, it's an amazing feeling
to see the hard work that you do. And when
I say hard work, um, to me it's not really
that hard at all. Like, you just take it to
(11:03):
places with you. You've always got that companion companionship. So
especially with, um, my kids doing sport, we have sports
seven days a week. Um, and. Yeah, I know, don't
even get me started on my life. It's it's hectic.
It's it's crazy. But as the kids have got older
with sport, it's it's so nice. Like Layla and I
would always when they're doing their practice, go for walks
(11:25):
and there's always other kids and there's always other dogs.
So even though I am very short on time, it
fits in perfectly that it's just taking the pup with
you anywhere. So Layla was yeah, she fitted in amazingly
with all the sport. She coped very well, um, with
the long drives. On Fridays we drive all around Melbourne
for basketball, so we could go to Donvale or Greensborough
(11:47):
or Eltham.
S1 (11:48):
Oh my gosh, that's a drive.
S2 (11:50):
It is a drive. Um, and yeah. So the very
nervous the first couple of weeks, you know, waiting to
hear how she's going. Um, and then, yeah, she graduated, um,
and was matched with a lady. And I had a
very special phone call over Christmas from the lady. Um,
and I wasn't expecting it because, you know, sometimes you
(12:11):
don't hear from the new the new owners. Um, but
she called to thank me for for helping raise such
a beautiful dog. That's changed. Changed her life. And honestly,
it was such a heartwarming conversation that I didn't we
didn't hang up for. I think we talked for over
an hour. Um, and just to hear how the difference,
because she used to walk with a cane, you know,
(12:33):
and it's very impersonal and it's really just hitting things
as you're walking along. And whereas, you know, Layla is
her companion and, and gives her the confidence to be
out and about and, um, and also her friend when
she gets home. And it was just, um, she sent
me a photo of Layla and herself, and it was
so special. And you can't buy that. You can't buy
(12:55):
that feeling inside and and how you contributed. And it
admittedly went, you know, we're not trainers. We're just socializing
the puppy. We're just getting it used to noises. So
there's no pressure to have it trained to a particular
standard because, you know, seeing eye dogs do that. Um,
but to be part of that process, like it's, it's
(13:15):
all you're doing is just giving your time. And we
all have time, you know, to give to a puppy.
And it's it's so rewarding, you know.
S1 (13:25):
And you think about, you know, like you said, she's
kind of fit in with your life in terms of,
you know, you go to the sport and then you
walk her around, you know, you think about the amount
of experiences she's had and just going and watching sport
and walking around that is, you know, that's so much
there's so much to learn from that. It's like ignoring
the basketball, ignoring the kids, ignoring the dogs. It's it's
all of that learning is built within your life, which is,
(13:46):
I guess, the same as any client who, you know,
might take, you know, she might take her kids to
basketball or similar.
S2 (13:52):
Yeah, yeah. And you're right. Especially like everywhere we go
we're learning to and they're learning. So even going to work,
you know, um, around the campus there's, there's always people
that want to come up and pat her or um,
there's big noises because they're, you know, they're watering the
lawns or there's a lawn mower or there's big buses,
you know? So, um, indirectly is where the training is.
(14:14):
And I think that's what works. And especially, you know,
if people say that they're too busy and I can
tell you, my hubby works night shift so we don't
see him till the weekend. I work five days a week.
I've got two kids and we have seven days a
week sport, plus the bunnies and the and my dog. Um,
and you know, every day we might not be able
to go for that three hour walk or something, but
(14:36):
we're always in town if we've got doctor's appointments, you know,
school activities, they the dogs come into the school with
us and sometimes we give presentations to the kids. And,
you know, there's always your life is so busy and
they're just part of it. So that indirect training is
what I think a lot of people don't see or
don't think of. They think, oh, I don't have time
(14:57):
to do it. Well, actually, they're just with you and
they're learning, like you said, at basketball, to ignore noises
and things like that. And it gives them, as the
kids get older, instead of just sitting in the car,
you know, while they're doing their training, I'm doing something
for me. And as a busy mum, you know, you
don't get that time to do a lot of things. Um, because,
(15:18):
you know, you want your kids to excel and you
want them to give them the time to do their sport.
So indirectly, you know, I'm getting out and walking and
socialising and doing sort of stuff for me while I'm
also training the pup and and doing the kids as well.
So and that's, that's something that I think a lot
of people don't think they can do, but they can.
(15:41):
And it's and it's easy that I don't know how
you guys breed them, but they're good dogs. They don't.
You know, that I haven't had one that's just that
didn't fit into that life. It's like they're pre-designed almost,
you know, um, and it's also the flip side of
that is it's been great company for my dog. So
she got, um, she got attacked when she was very young.
(16:04):
And so doggie daycare was hard for her. But because
we have so many dogs coming in and out, she's
she's thriving. And she loves every dog that comes in. Um,
you know, and it's it's sort of the ripple effect. So, sure,
we're taking this puppy in and, and we're doing our bit,
but it's also enriching my pet's lives, my rabbits lives, my,
(16:24):
my dog's life and also the kids. It gives them
some connection to doing something to the community that's free.
All you're doing is just giving your time. And, um,
the support system. I can't say enough about seeing eye
dogs and the community that we've got. Um, between all
of us carers, you know, you've got an extended family
and everyone's experienced different dogs, everyone's experienced, you know, the
(16:47):
different little quirks that each one has. And, and it's, um,
you know, you just pop it on the chat and
you'll get a response straight away, and someone can always
give you a suggestion, or you could do this or that.
My dog did this. And yeah. So it's it's much broader.
I think what you get out of it is so
much more than, than what you put in. I think
because it's, it's very rewarding. And to get a phone
(17:08):
call from, from Layla's owner just to say thank you
and how much her life has changed, like it's such
a blessing to be part of.
S1 (17:16):
It's so cool to be as well, like have that
direct kind of contact and like, you know, puts everything
into perspective, especially, I think, when you keep caring and
then when you have a hard moment, you're like, no, no,
it's fine.
S2 (17:27):
Yeah.
S1 (17:27):
That's right. You know, this is what we're working towards.
And even if, you know, potentially each of the other
ones doesn't make it, you know, you still have to
give them the chance to see if you can go
through whatever hurdle it is. Yes, in my mind at least.
S2 (17:40):
And, you know, I think there's even if they don't
make it and they do get released, you've still been
part of something special, you know, because that family is
getting a beautiful dog that you've helped socialize and and
get used to noises. And so it's you know, I
think that it doesn't matter what path they choose. You've
still helped in some way.
S1 (18:01):
So you've mentioned, you know, a lot of sport, um,
and work. Is there anything else that you would like
to add about? You know, I guess I was going
to ask what a typical day or week in your
life is, but it sounds very busy.
S2 (18:12):
Well, it's it's a lot, but we love it. Um,
you know, so I think, uh, as I said, my hobbies, uh,
does night shift, so we don't really see him until
the weekend. Um, and just, I think generally a normal
day is, um, you know, getting the kids up, going
to school, taking them to school, going into work, um,
(18:34):
taking our gorgeous Georgia with us. And just on that
work is is amazing. I think. I didn't realize how
much everyone loves when we come into the office and
it's it's, you know, I just get to go in
the excitement around and the buzz of the office. And
it's just such a lovely place to go with Georgia and, um.
And at lunchtimes, I always take her jacket off and
(18:56):
she goes around and says hi to everybody, which also
helps with the reinforcing of jackets on, you know, and
working jacket off. But yeah, they they just love her.
So I don't know how much work I actually get
done in the office on that day, but it just
cheers everybody up. And then, you know, we finish we
do school pickup, Mondays we have netball Tuesdays we have
basketball Wednesdays, footy practice, Thursday netball practice Fridays we drive
(19:20):
all around Melbourne. Um because my son's in Geelong United. Um,
he's doing very well with that. And then on Saturdays
my daughter, she plays netball for div two. She's doing
really well. And then my son's going to start football.
And then Sundays we have GB practice basketball practice. Yeah.
So in between that we also have all the school
(19:41):
activities as well. So we love taking the dogs into
the school. Um really great opportunity. Um it's amazing how
many kids when we bring them in, there's always a
couple that do assignments on seeing eye dogs. So yeah.
And they, they, um, if they're doing a presentation, we'll come,
we come back in and listen to it, and then
we let them have a little pat of the dogs.
(20:01):
And so it's teaching them about giving back to the
community at a primary school level, because my son's still
in primary school. Um, so that's really sweet. Um, yeah.
And then fitting into that, all of the general, you know,
play dates, we've got birthdays, we've got, um, doctor's appointments,
you name it. So it's a pretty busy life. Um,
(20:21):
I do love Sunday mornings because then, uh, one of
my favorite things to do is get up early and
then sit with the dogs in the hammock, and we
just sit there for half an hour, and it's just
nice listening to the birds outside and taking.
S1 (20:32):
Some time.
S2 (20:33):
And having that quiet time. But, um, you know. Yeah,
it's it's pretty hectic. So if I can do it,
anyone can.
S1 (20:41):
Anyone.
S2 (20:41):
Can, anyone can. And, you know, it's weird if I
go somewhere without a pup, it's like a lost handbag.
I'm looking for something. I've lost something. But it's just
so great. And to, you know, I'd happily talk to
anyone about it. And I think because the dogs are
so great. Yeah. Really cute.
S1 (21:01):
What are your favorite things about caring?
S2 (21:05):
Oh, do you know what? We've got a limited time,
so I don't know if I can express all of
it in such a short time. I think the unconditional
love you get from every. Every, um, pup, um, they're
all different, but they really, for me, fill up my
love tank. They really do. They make me happy. Um.
I smile because they're learning. They're smart, they're caring, they're funny. Um,
(21:28):
and I think that it just, I don't know, it
makes my life that little shining light that I'm contributing
to the community as well as my family. So hopefully
teaching my kids that you can fit in, um, with
your lifestyle, something. and that's most important for me. Um,
it's probably one of the most selfless, selfless things I
(21:50):
think that you can do. And I know it makes
me appreciate life outside of my own little bubble. There's
people out there, um, that need our help. You know,
if we don't do this for them. How? How are
they going to have a dog? You know, how are
they going to have something that changes their life? Um,
and to be able to be able to go out
(22:11):
with low vision, it's just gives them some, I guess,
a purpose to to get out in the community, to
be able to know that they can safely get around. And,
you know, we are just a small part of such
a big, big picture. And I couldn't imagine not doing it.
I couldn't imagine people not wanting to do it. Um,
(22:32):
and to take part of it and be part of that.
It's such a big picture for them as well. Yeah.
S1 (22:38):
And I guess it's just really enabling that choice. I mean,
you know, some people are really happy with the cane
and they kind of get about and that's, that's that's fine.
But for those people that really want a dog, it's
it's everything. And that is, you know, it's it's part
of your identity. If that's something that you, you know,
are a dog user, I think some handlers, you know,
they wouldn't have it any other way. That's how they live.
S2 (23:00):
Mhm. Yeah. So it's very special to be part of that.
And I know our our role is very small. Um
but it's still, it's so rewarding.
S1 (23:10):
And just to kind of finish off are there any
particular stories that you would like to share.
S2 (23:14):
Um I would uh, again speaking about Layla. So I
actually suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Um, and I also have
migraines that when I have an attack, um, I have
stroke symptoms, so it can be quite severe, um, lose
feeling in my left hand side and lose my speech
so that it's quite nerve wracking. I know I'm not
(23:36):
having a stroke, but still, the symptoms are there. And
you do get that. Oh. What's happening? Um. And Layla,
just early into our training, she would probably out of nowhere,
just sort of jump on my chest. And it's very
unlike her to do that because she was always sitting
under the chair. And within 20 minutes I would have
an attack all the time. So she knew. So it
(23:57):
was just that comforting. Hey, we're so bonded, you know?
She was able to tell me when I was getting
a migraine attack. And so I felt safe with her. And, um,
so here I am thinking, oh, I'm giving back to
the community. But that little pup was also helping me,
so it was. It's very special, the bond that you
have with them, and each one's different. Um, and my
(24:20):
mom said, Mary, who's just been, um, for informal training, um,
last week, she would always have a paw on my foot.
Always everywhere we go. Um, and if I was getting
a migraine, she'd sort of tap my paw just so
that I could look at her and she would know
that I was okay. So they give back to you
in that way as well. So I think that's a
very special part of of doing the foster caring.
S1 (24:44):
I think the intuition between those two. Of being able to. Yeah,
I guess well, intuitively, without any training. I know.
S2 (24:53):
Isn't that amazing.
S1 (24:54):
Work out that you're starting. You know that something's coming
on is is incredible.
S2 (24:59):
Yeah. Yeah it is. And and even Georgia even now
she's she's always sitting on my feet so that they
give you something some little signs and it's. Yeah it's incredible.
And you're right. No training at all. They just have
that bond with you. So if I can imagine, imagine
the bond that they've got with someone who's got low vision.
It must be incredible.
S1 (25:19):
Yeah. And and working with them for like eight, nine
years is. Yeah.
S2 (25:22):
Oh yeah. Yeah.
S1 (25:25):
So just to finish off, are there any other messages
for the general public or anyone considering caring?
S2 (25:31):
Um, I would say put your application in and just
do it. Don't wait. Don't think about it because you'll
overthink it. You'll overthink, oh, I don't have time. I
can't do it. You'll be able to see that you
can do it and that it's, um, it's going to
be a beautiful part of your life and you're going
to really enjoy what you get out of it. Um,
and again, yeah, just do the foster care relief. If
(25:53):
you don't, if you can't commit, try it out. And
I'm sure that you'll go, no, I'm going to keep
the pup and we can do it for six weeks
or six months or or 12 months. And the pride
and the accomplishment that you get when they go in
for formal training, um, and it's such a beautiful day
when you celebrate all the hard work, um, and the
fact that when you do go and you get to
(26:14):
see all their siblings, I think that was adorable. Um,
to see all the other ones that have made it to.
And it's very rewarding, the community. I think that the
support that you have is, is wonderful. Um, and I
think that we can all do our little part in
this big picture.
S1 (26:32):
Well, thank you so much for joining me on the
show and sharing your story, as well as all of
the work that you've done.
S2 (26:37):
Oh, it's a pleasure. And as I said, I would
have happily have four or 5 five, six if I could,
but we just say yes, a little pack. Um, but yeah.
Thank you for having me on today.
S1 (26:54):
You've been listening to the Seeing Eye dog show on
Vision Australia Radio. I hope you enjoyed my interview with
Seeing Eye Dogs puppy carer Kath Bentley. Reminder we are
looking for puppy carers across parts of New South Wales,
Queensland and Victoria including Geelong region, Ballarat, Bendigo and Greater Melbourne,
Central Coast and parts of northern Sydney, uh, parts of
(27:17):
the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane in Queensland.
If you're interested in finding out about public hearing, you
can head to our website at Australia for more information.
Our friendly team are happy to chat with you about
potential caring. You can find our contact details on the
website at. Or send us an email at info at.
(27:44):
That email is info at. To find out about puppy caring.
There are a number of volunteering options for people across
those caring regions, in particular our dog caring roles. We
have vacancies for puppy caring as well as for training
dog caring in all of those states and breeder caring
in parts of Victoria. Selected regions that are listed on
(28:07):
our website. Being a carer for us means that you
get a lot of dog love to contribute to future.
Seeing eye dogs and seeing eye dogs pays for food,
provides equipment and training, and you get to be part
of an amazing community. Head to our website and find
out more if you're interested. Thank you for listening to
(28:28):
the show and don't forget to tune in! Same time
next week for another episode of The Seeing Eye Dog Show.
Have a lovely week!
On Vision Australia Radio. You're listening to the Seeing Eye
Dog show with me, your host Eric Moffatt. Today I
am joined by Seeing Eye Dogs puppy carer Kath Bentley
from the Geelong region, who is going to be talking
to us about her life and her journey as a carer.
Kath is a busy mum and she takes her seeing
eye dog puppies alongside her family commitments swotting throughout the
(00:36):
week and to work as well. So we're going to
be talking a bit about life of a seeing eye,
dogs puppy in a busy life and how puppy caring
fits in with a bunch of different lifestyles. For our
lovely carers, puppy caring is an amazing thing to do.
It's a really rewarding volunteer experience and as we close
off our May volunteer month, we'd like to give a
(00:58):
massive thank you to all of our volunteers who contribute
in so many ways to seeing Eye our dogs and
our mission to support people who are blind or have
low vision. So without further ado, let's hear a volunteer
story from the wonderful Cath Bentley. Thank you for listening. Hi.
(01:23):
Thanks for joining me on the show today.
S2 (01:25):
That's okay. Very welcome.
S1 (01:28):
Could you please start off by introducing yourself?
S2 (01:31):
Sure. Hi, Harriet. My name is Cath Bentley. Um, I
live in East Geelong, in Victoria. We have a lovely
family of four. So there's myself, my hubby. Um, I
have a daughter who is 15 years old and a
son who is 12. We also have a five year
old dog called Luna, who is a crazy Hungarian Vizsla,
(01:52):
and we have two rabbits who are. They're about three
years old and one of those rabbits. I do think
she thinks she's a dog, so she likes to hang
around all the girls Band and play, which is pretty cute.
Pretty cute. I actually work at a local TAFE. The
Gordon TAFE, which I love. Um, a few of my
(02:13):
passions of course. The. Seeing eye dogs, um, doing foster
care relief as well. I love Egyptology and probably watching
my kids play sport. I love watching them do that.
So that's a little bit about myself.
S1 (02:27):
The Egyptology is a is a new one. Is that
part do you work in any history fields as well,
or is that just a complete passion?
S2 (02:35):
It's just a complete passion. I've always loved Egypt, so
I don't know where it comes from. I think my pop,
my English grandfather, actually fought over there in the war. Yeah.
And so he, um, there was a story that he
went to the Egyptian zoo and let out a lion
and then went into a cage or something, put a
(02:56):
flag up with the British flag. So maybe that's where
that comes from. I'm not quite sure, but. Yes. Uh,
I've been to Egypt and loved it. Yes.
S1 (03:06):
I think freeing some or going into a lion enclosure
is definitely brave. Um, I'm not sure if it's what
I would do.
S2 (03:13):
No, I wouldn't do that either.
S1 (03:16):
So what is your volunteer role at Seeing Eye Dogs,
and how long have you been volunteering?
S2 (03:21):
Um, so my role, um, is a full time puppy carer. Um,
and I also love doing foster care relief. So I
would happily take, you know, 6 or 7 dogs if
I could. Um, I've been a volunteer since about 2022,
so I actually, um, applied before, just before Covid. So
(03:42):
we didn't have any contact for a while, um, during Covid, um,
and then in 2022, I got an email to say, um,
a puppy was ready. So I've applied straight away for
that one. Yes, please. Yay! So yeah, it's been a
while now.
S1 (03:59):
It took quite a while for carers to get new
puppies like during Covid. It was a very strange experience
that we had such a long waitlist because people were
really home. It was the perfect time to start and
I know even like experienced carers were kind of waiting
and we'd never really had to wait before. It was
always the accepted thing of, you know, you give one
puppy back and you get another one straight away.
S2 (04:20):
Yeah, it was a long wait.
S1 (04:22):
Very strange.
S2 (04:23):
Very, very long wait. Although, you know, um, doing home
schooling during Covid probably wouldn't have given me the time anyway. Um,
and we had a guinea pig too, at that stage.
So we had a big household.
S1 (04:35):
And the two rabbits and Luna.
S2 (04:38):
Yes. Yep.
S1 (04:39):
So definitely you've got your kind of own mini petting
zoo there, at least.
S2 (04:44):
Yes we do. And, um, the more the merrier, I
would say.
S1 (04:49):
What made you decide to take up puppy caring?
S2 (04:53):
Well, um, it's something that, you know, you see it
on TV, you see the vans, you see how it's
really the puppies, how gorgeous they are. And thinking, oh,
we could. At one stage I looked at foster at
Fostering dogs. But I think that the reason why we
didn't do that is having young kids. At the time,
you don't know their background and their history. So I
(05:13):
didn't really I don't think we had the capacity to
introduce a dog who may have had issues, um, into
the family that we have. And it was a very
busy family, especially when the kids were a bit younger.
And it's funny because we went out for dinner, I think,
to Little Creatures, and I saw a lady and a
(05:34):
man with a puppy, and it was the cutest puppy
with the little Lerner jacket. And I've gone, I have
to go and talk to it. He's like, oh God,
not again. Any dog. Um, you know, I have tunnel
vision towards dogs. Um, and I started talking to them and,
and I said, oh, can I have a pet? And
they said, oh, thanks for asking, but no, you know, she's, um,
she's training. So we talked a little, little bit about it.
(05:57):
And then I went away going, oh no, I no. Yeah.
As everyone says. Oh, I couldn't give that back. That
puppy was so cute and everything, so I didn't think
much of it. And and not kidding. I would say
like a week later I was walking on campus because
I work at the local TAFE. Um, and there was
a lady with a larger guard dog. Obviously it was
probably about, you know, 6 or 7 months. And I
(06:20):
started talking to her about it and I said, could
I have a pet? And she actually said, yes, sure.
And so that threw me and I went, okay. She
took the jacket off and I had a little pet.
And then she was the same again, ask me questions,
you know, would you be interested and stuff? And I'm like,
oh no, I couldn't give it back. And she said, well,
I started off doing foster care relief. So then that
(06:41):
way you get used to a dog coming in and
out of the home. And I said, oh, okay. I said,
you know, with little kids, maybe that would work better
because then we're not committed to having a full time job.
And it's something that I really did want to do.
So came home, talked to hubby, and we said, okay, well,
why don't we just do that? And so that's how
we got started. Or originally, how it was going to
(07:03):
work was just then we could choose the times that
we could have, um, in between kid life and our
existing pets, um, you know, to have a puppy for
a week or a month and to be help helping
those who are actually doing the the full time puppy caring. Yeah.
So that's how we got into it. Um, and then
(07:24):
obviously we put our application in and we didn't get
any fosters because it was Covid. And so.
S1 (07:29):
Yeah, no one was, no one was going away, no
one needed a break. No.
S2 (07:33):
And I was waiting and waiting and waiting. And then, um,
we got the email to say, um, Miss Tibby was
ready if we wanted to take a full time pup.
So again, we were a bit hesitant. We said, why
don't we just take it for, you know, the four
weeks just to see how the kids react, how Luna reacts. Um,
and the rest is history. We did not give that
(07:53):
puppy back. It was, um, it was a beautiful journey. Um,
and it's something that I think once you start, you go,
I can give the dog back. It's not about me anymore.
It's about a really big picture that you know, you're
part of. And and I think that's what you have
to experience to learn, to learn that. And it's okay
(08:14):
to let a dog come in and to let it go.
And it's, um, you just want to be, you know,
get proud that you're doing the training to help. And then,
you know, we don't need that puppy. We've got our
own life. We've got our own dog. Um, yeah. So
that's how we sort of started it. And then it's
been a crazy four years or three. Um, when we
(08:37):
start 22. So three years. Yeah. And I look back
in those three years, we've done so much and it
really they, they just fill up your love tank and
you know, being able to have it. And I said
I'd have as many as I could. So yeah that's
how we got started.
S1 (08:52):
And kind of I guess going back to, well, going
forward to the present. Could you please tell us a
bit about your current dog?
S2 (09:00):
Uh, yes. So currently we have Miss Georgia. Um, she
is fearless and sweet and, um, very goofy. So she
keeps us on our toes. Um. She's determined. She's going
really well. Um, we actually had, um. My. She's my
fourth dog. Um, we had my third dog go in
(09:22):
a week ago. So we actually had both of them
for four months, sort of as a crossover. So, um, but, yeah,
it's good to get back onto the one on one training.
And she's licking my feet at the moment under the desk.
S1 (09:36):
Not sure how I feel about that. Is it affectionate?
Tell me.
S2 (09:39):
No, it's I think she's trying to tell me that
she wants a little biscuit. There you go. But, yeah,
it's amazing how different each dog is. And it's, you know,
you think you've got your training down pat, and then
the next one will show, show you something else that
you need to train on. And having your own dog. Um,
I've learned so much, and I think that I thought
I'd trained Luna before, you know. No. Definitely not. Um.
(10:04):
You know, and Paige, our puppy development trainer. She's amazing.
And she gives us so much advice and it just works.
So it's nice to have that support system in place.
It's not like he's a puppy. Just go and do it.
It's a real community. Mm.
S1 (10:20):
Um, and I guess you have seen I mean, you know,
we talk a little bit about like, in public hearing
in particular. You know, the goal isn't necessarily only kind
of guiding. You know, we have to just do our
best to raise a nice puppy. And at the end
of the day, it's going to be their choice. But
you have seen that real, I guess, the end product
and the success. Could you tell us a bit about, um,
(10:40):
you know, your previous puppy who graduated?
S2 (10:43):
I can um, so her name was Layla and she
graduated in October last year. Um, super proud of Layla.
She was a beautiful girl. Um, it's an amazing feeling
to see the hard work that you do. And when
I say hard work, um, to me it's not really
that hard at all. Like, you just take it to
(11:03):
places with you. You've always got that companion companionship. So
especially with, um, my kids doing sport, we have sports
seven days a week. Um, and. Yeah, I know, don't
even get me started on my life. It's it's hectic.
It's it's crazy. But as the kids have got older
with sport, it's it's so nice. Like Layla and I
would always when they're doing their practice, go for walks
(11:25):
and there's always other kids and there's always other dogs.
So even though I am very short on time, it
fits in perfectly that it's just taking the pup with
you anywhere. So Layla was yeah, she fitted in amazingly
with all the sport. She coped very well, um, with
the long drives. On Fridays we drive all around Melbourne
for basketball, so we could go to Donvale or Greensborough
(11:47):
or Eltham.
S1 (11:48):
Oh my gosh, that's a drive.
S2 (11:50):
It is a drive. Um, and yeah. So the very
nervous the first couple of weeks, you know, waiting to
hear how she's going. Um, and then, yeah, she graduated, um,
and was matched with a lady. And I had a
very special phone call over Christmas from the lady. Um,
and I wasn't expecting it because, you know, sometimes you
(12:11):
don't hear from the new the new owners. Um, but
she called to thank me for for helping raise such
a beautiful dog. That's changed. Changed her life. And honestly,
it was such a heartwarming conversation that I didn't we
didn't hang up for. I think we talked for over
an hour. Um, and just to hear how the difference,
because she used to walk with a cane, you know,
(12:33):
and it's very impersonal and it's really just hitting things
as you're walking along. And whereas, you know, Layla is
her companion and, and gives her the confidence to be
out and about and, um, and also her friend when
she gets home. And it was just, um, she sent
me a photo of Layla and herself, and it was
so special. And you can't buy that. You can't buy
(12:55):
that feeling inside and and how you contributed. And it
admittedly went, you know, we're not trainers. We're just socializing
the puppy. We're just getting it used to noises. So
there's no pressure to have it trained to a particular
standard because, you know, seeing eye dogs do that. Um,
but to be part of that process, like it's, it's
(13:15):
all you're doing is just giving your time. And we
all have time, you know, to give to a puppy.
And it's it's so rewarding, you know.
S1 (13:25):
And you think about, you know, like you said, she's
kind of fit in with your life in terms of,
you know, you go to the sport and then you
walk her around, you know, you think about the amount
of experiences she's had and just going and watching sport
and walking around that is, you know, that's so much
there's so much to learn from that. It's like ignoring
the basketball, ignoring the kids, ignoring the dogs. It's it's
all of that learning is built within your life, which is,
(13:46):
I guess, the same as any client who, you know,
might take, you know, she might take her kids to
basketball or similar.
S2 (13:52):
Yeah, yeah. And you're right. Especially like everywhere we go
we're learning to and they're learning. So even going to work,
you know, um, around the campus there's, there's always people
that want to come up and pat her or um,
there's big noises because they're, you know, they're watering the
lawns or there's a lawn mower or there's big buses,
you know? So, um, indirectly is where the training is.
(14:14):
And I think that's what works. And especially, you know,
if people say that they're too busy and I can
tell you, my hubby works night shift so we don't
see him till the weekend. I work five days a week.
I've got two kids and we have seven days a
week sport, plus the bunnies and the and my dog. Um,
and you know, every day we might not be able
to go for that three hour walk or something, but
(14:36):
we're always in town if we've got doctor's appointments, you know,
school activities, they the dogs come into the school with
us and sometimes we give presentations to the kids. And,
you know, there's always your life is so busy and
they're just part of it. So that indirect training is
what I think a lot of people don't see or
don't think of. They think, oh, I don't have time
(14:57):
to do it. Well, actually, they're just with you and
they're learning, like you said, at basketball, to ignore noises
and things like that. And it gives them, as the
kids get older, instead of just sitting in the car,
you know, while they're doing their training, I'm doing something
for me. And as a busy mum, you know, you
don't get that time to do a lot of things. Um, because,
(15:18):
you know, you want your kids to excel and you
want them to give them the time to do their sport.
So indirectly, you know, I'm getting out and walking and
socialising and doing sort of stuff for me while I'm
also training the pup and and doing the kids as well.
So and that's, that's something that I think a lot
of people don't think they can do, but they can.
(15:41):
And it's and it's easy that I don't know how
you guys breed them, but they're good dogs. They don't.
You know, that I haven't had one that's just that
didn't fit into that life. It's like they're pre-designed almost,
you know, um, and it's also the flip side of
that is it's been great company for my dog. So
she got, um, she got attacked when she was very young.
(16:04):
And so doggie daycare was hard for her. But because
we have so many dogs coming in and out, she's
she's thriving. And she loves every dog that comes in. Um,
you know, and it's it's sort of the ripple effect. So, sure,
we're taking this puppy in and, and we're doing our bit,
but it's also enriching my pet's lives, my rabbits lives, my,
(16:24):
my dog's life and also the kids. It gives them
some connection to doing something to the community that's free.
All you're doing is just giving your time. And, um,
the support system. I can't say enough about seeing eye
dogs and the community that we've got. Um, between all
of us carers, you know, you've got an extended family
and everyone's experienced different dogs, everyone's experienced, you know, the
(16:47):
different little quirks that each one has. And, and it's, um,
you know, you just pop it on the chat and
you'll get a response straight away, and someone can always
give you a suggestion, or you could do this or that.
My dog did this. And yeah. So it's it's much broader.
I think what you get out of it is so
much more than, than what you put in. I think
because it's, it's very rewarding. And to get a phone
(17:08):
call from, from Layla's owner just to say thank you
and how much her life has changed, like it's such
a blessing to be part of.
S1 (17:16):
It's so cool to be as well, like have that
direct kind of contact and like, you know, puts everything
into perspective, especially, I think, when you keep caring and
then when you have a hard moment, you're like, no, no,
it's fine.
S2 (17:27):
Yeah.
S1 (17:27):
That's right. You know, this is what we're working towards.
And even if, you know, potentially each of the other
ones doesn't make it, you know, you still have to
give them the chance to see if you can go
through whatever hurdle it is. Yes, in my mind at least.
S2 (17:40):
And, you know, I think there's even if they don't
make it and they do get released, you've still been
part of something special, you know, because that family is
getting a beautiful dog that you've helped socialize and and
get used to noises. And so it's you know, I
think that it doesn't matter what path they choose. You've
still helped in some way.
S1 (18:01):
So you've mentioned, you know, a lot of sport, um,
and work. Is there anything else that you would like
to add about? You know, I guess I was going
to ask what a typical day or week in your
life is, but it sounds very busy.
S2 (18:12):
Well, it's it's a lot, but we love it. Um,
you know, so I think, uh, as I said, my hobbies, uh,
does night shift, so we don't really see him until
the weekend. Um, and just, I think generally a normal
day is, um, you know, getting the kids up, going
to school, taking them to school, going into work, um,
(18:34):
taking our gorgeous Georgia with us. And just on that
work is is amazing. I think. I didn't realize how
much everyone loves when we come into the office and
it's it's, you know, I just get to go in
the excitement around and the buzz of the office. And
it's just such a lovely place to go with Georgia and, um.
And at lunchtimes, I always take her jacket off and
(18:56):
she goes around and says hi to everybody, which also
helps with the reinforcing of jackets on, you know, and
working jacket off. But yeah, they they just love her.
So I don't know how much work I actually get
done in the office on that day, but it just
cheers everybody up. And then, you know, we finish we
do school pickup, Mondays we have netball Tuesdays we have
basketball Wednesdays, footy practice, Thursday netball practice Fridays we drive
(19:20):
all around Melbourne. Um because my son's in Geelong United. Um,
he's doing very well with that. And then on Saturdays
my daughter, she plays netball for div two. She's doing
really well. And then my son's going to start football.
And then Sundays we have GB practice basketball practice. Yeah.
So in between that we also have all the school
(19:41):
activities as well. So we love taking the dogs into
the school. Um really great opportunity. Um it's amazing how
many kids when we bring them in, there's always a
couple that do assignments on seeing eye dogs. So yeah.
And they, they, um, if they're doing a presentation, we'll come,
we come back in and listen to it, and then
we let them have a little pat of the dogs.
(20:01):
And so it's teaching them about giving back to the
community at a primary school level, because my son's still
in primary school. Um, so that's really sweet. Um, yeah.
And then fitting into that, all of the general, you know,
play dates, we've got birthdays, we've got, um, doctor's appointments,
you name it. So it's a pretty busy life. Um,
(20:21):
I do love Sunday mornings because then, uh, one of
my favorite things to do is get up early and
then sit with the dogs in the hammock, and we
just sit there for half an hour, and it's just
nice listening to the birds outside and taking.
S1 (20:32):
Some time.
S2 (20:33):
And having that quiet time. But, um, you know. Yeah,
it's it's pretty hectic. So if I can do it,
anyone can.
S1 (20:41):
Anyone.
S2 (20:41):
Can, anyone can. And, you know, it's weird if I
go somewhere without a pup, it's like a lost handbag.
I'm looking for something. I've lost something. But it's just
so great. And to, you know, I'd happily talk to
anyone about it. And I think because the dogs are
so great. Yeah. Really cute.
S1 (21:01):
What are your favorite things about caring?
S2 (21:05):
Oh, do you know what? We've got a limited time,
so I don't know if I can express all of
it in such a short time. I think the unconditional
love you get from every. Every, um, pup, um, they're
all different, but they really, for me, fill up my
love tank. They really do. They make me happy. Um.
I smile because they're learning. They're smart, they're caring, they're funny. Um,
(21:28):
and I think that it just, I don't know, it
makes my life that little shining light that I'm contributing
to the community as well as my family. So hopefully
teaching my kids that you can fit in, um, with
your lifestyle, something. and that's most important for me. Um,
it's probably one of the most selfless, selfless things I
(21:50):
think that you can do. And I know it makes
me appreciate life outside of my own little bubble. There's
people out there, um, that need our help. You know,
if we don't do this for them. How? How are
they going to have a dog? You know, how are
they going to have something that changes their life? Um,
and to be able to be able to go out
(22:11):
with low vision, it's just gives them some, I guess,
a purpose to to get out in the community, to
be able to know that they can safely get around. And,
you know, we are just a small part of such
a big, big picture. And I couldn't imagine not doing it.
I couldn't imagine people not wanting to do it. Um,
(22:32):
and to take part of it and be part of that.
It's such a big picture for them as well. Yeah.
S1 (22:38):
And I guess it's just really enabling that choice. I mean,
you know, some people are really happy with the cane
and they kind of get about and that's, that's that's fine.
But for those people that really want a dog, it's
it's everything. And that is, you know, it's it's part
of your identity. If that's something that you, you know,
are a dog user, I think some handlers, you know,
they wouldn't have it any other way. That's how they live.
S2 (23:00):
Mhm. Yeah. So it's very special to be part of that.
And I know our our role is very small. Um
but it's still, it's so rewarding.
S1 (23:10):
And just to kind of finish off are there any
particular stories that you would like to share.
S2 (23:14):
Um I would uh, again speaking about Layla. So I
actually suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Um, and I also have
migraines that when I have an attack, um, I have
stroke symptoms, so it can be quite severe, um, lose
feeling in my left hand side and lose my speech
so that it's quite nerve wracking. I know I'm not
(23:36):
having a stroke, but still, the symptoms are there. And
you do get that. Oh. What's happening? Um. And Layla,
just early into our training, she would probably out of nowhere,
just sort of jump on my chest. And it's very
unlike her to do that because she was always sitting
under the chair. And within 20 minutes I would have
an attack all the time. So she knew. So it
(23:57):
was just that comforting. Hey, we're so bonded, you know?
She was able to tell me when I was getting
a migraine attack. And so I felt safe with her. And, um,
so here I am thinking, oh, I'm giving back to
the community. But that little pup was also helping me,
so it was. It's very special, the bond that you
have with them, and each one's different. Um, and my
(24:20):
mom said, Mary, who's just been, um, for informal training, um,
last week, she would always have a paw on my foot.
Always everywhere we go. Um, and if I was getting
a migraine, she'd sort of tap my paw just so
that I could look at her and she would know
that I was okay. So they give back to you
in that way as well. So I think that's a
very special part of of doing the foster caring.
S1 (24:44):
I think the intuition between those two. Of being able to. Yeah,
I guess well, intuitively, without any training. I know.
S2 (24:53):
Isn't that amazing.
S1 (24:54):
Work out that you're starting. You know that something's coming
on is is incredible.
S2 (24:59):
Yeah. Yeah it is. And and even Georgia even now
she's she's always sitting on my feet so that they
give you something some little signs and it's. Yeah it's incredible.
And you're right. No training at all. They just have
that bond with you. So if I can imagine, imagine
the bond that they've got with someone who's got low vision.
It must be incredible.
S1 (25:19):
Yeah. And and working with them for like eight, nine
years is. Yeah.
S2 (25:22):
Oh yeah. Yeah.
S1 (25:25):
So just to finish off, are there any other messages
for the general public or anyone considering caring?
S2 (25:31):
Um, I would say put your application in and just
do it. Don't wait. Don't think about it because you'll
overthink it. You'll overthink, oh, I don't have time. I
can't do it. You'll be able to see that you
can do it and that it's, um, it's going to
be a beautiful part of your life and you're going
to really enjoy what you get out of it. Um,
and again, yeah, just do the foster care relief. If
(25:53):
you don't, if you can't commit, try it out. And
I'm sure that you'll go, no, I'm going to keep
the pup and we can do it for six weeks
or six months or or 12 months. And the pride
and the accomplishment that you get when they go in
for formal training, um, and it's such a beautiful day
when you celebrate all the hard work, um, and the
fact that when you do go and you get to
(26:14):
see all their siblings, I think that was adorable. Um,
to see all the other ones that have made it to.
And it's very rewarding, the community. I think that the
support that you have is, is wonderful. Um, and I
think that we can all do our little part in
this big picture.
S1 (26:32):
Well, thank you so much for joining me on the
show and sharing your story, as well as all of
the work that you've done.
S2 (26:37):
Oh, it's a pleasure. And as I said, I would
have happily have four or 5 five, six if I could,
but we just say yes, a little pack. Um, but yeah.
Thank you for having me on today.
S1 (26:54):
You've been listening to the Seeing Eye dog show on
Vision Australia Radio. I hope you enjoyed my interview with
Seeing Eye Dogs puppy carer Kath Bentley. Reminder we are
looking for puppy carers across parts of New South Wales,
Queensland and Victoria including Geelong region, Ballarat, Bendigo and Greater Melbourne,
Central Coast and parts of northern Sydney, uh, parts of
(27:17):
the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane in Queensland.
If you're interested in finding out about public hearing, you
can head to our website at Australia for more information.
Our friendly team are happy to chat with you about
potential caring. You can find our contact details on the
website at. Or send us an email at info at.
(27:44):
That email is info at. To find out about puppy caring.
There are a number of volunteering options for people across
those caring regions, in particular our dog caring roles. We
have vacancies for puppy caring as well as for training
dog caring in all of those states and breeder caring
in parts of Victoria. Selected regions that are listed on
(28:07):
our website. Being a carer for us means that you
get a lot of dog love to contribute to future.
Seeing eye dogs and seeing eye dogs pays for food,
provides equipment and training, and you get to be part
of an amazing community. Head to our website and find
out more if you're interested. Thank you for listening to
(28:28):
the show and don't forget to tune in! Same time
next week for another episode of The Seeing Eye Dog Show.
Have a lovely week!
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