Seeing Eye Dogs Show, by Vision Australia Radio

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by Seeing Eye Dogs Community Engagement Officer and handler Nadia Mattiazzo. We talk about International Women's Day, women in leadership and Nadia's new role as chairperson at Dog Guide Handlers Australia (DGHA). Nadia has been in many leadership roles including CEO at her last workplace and shares some tips for women wanting to get involved in work, leadership or volunteering. We also discuss DGHA and their mission in promoting the interests of dog guide handlers from all dog guide schools across Australia. If you'd like to find out more about DGHA or become a member, head to their website: https://dgha.org.au/ If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by two guests. Training dog carer volunteer Karen Anderson joins us to talk about looking after Desmond during his formal training. Karen is a training dog carer who lives in the Mornington Peninsula region where trainers pick the dogs up each training day and the carer looks after the dog and provides rest and love on weeknights and weekends. Karen is also a puppy and breeder carer and Kindergarten teacher who's joined us to talk about raising pups in kindy, you can stream that interview here: https://omny.fm/shows/seeing-eye-dogs-show/puppy-caring-story-karen-and-puppies-at-kindy. We're looking for training dog carers in Ivanhoe, VIC and surrounds where the dog gets picked up and dropped from your home, and around Kensington, VIC where carers pick up and drop the dog off from our site. Find out more about training dog care here: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/volunteer/training-dog Then we have a repeat episode with Seeing Eye Dogs Senior Instructor Brooke Anderson who chats with us about eligibility for a Seeing Eye Dog and who might benefit from a dog guide. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode we chat with Seeing Eye Dogs puppy carer David Micallef about his life working at RMIT University and caring for SED puppy Sarge. Dave has been a puppy carer since 2021 and has been bringing puppies along in his busy life working on campus, living in the city and being out and about including at some exciting comedy gigs. Hear how the pups settle into life on campus and the positive impact their presence makes on staff and students. Thanks Dave for your amazing work with these pups! 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harriet is joined by blind couple Damo & Marion McMorrow and their Seeing Eye Dogs. Damo is partnered with SED Jenna and is married to Marion (née Marion Chapman) who is partnered with SED Taurus. In this interview, we hear their love story and find out how they built a special bond with the help of their Seeing Eye Dogs. We chat about how the couple works with a dog each and how the dogs get on together. Damo & Marion with their dogs love travelling and adventure so we talk about how they enjoy camping together and visiting new cities. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Hepburn Shire mayor and Seeing Eye Dogs handler Tony Clark and his Seeing Eye Dog Timmy. Tony is a busy man with lots of jobs and responsibilities, he's also blind and uses a Seeing Eye Dog. He talks to us about his career, work and partnership with Timmy, and the strengths and experience people who are blind or have low vision can bring to leadership or politics. Facing different barriers and misconceptions has taught Tony resilience and problem solving skills he brings to his various roles, and he encourages other people with disabilities to give it a go and have a place in leadership. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seeing Eye Dogs Training Program Manager and instructor Kylie Gersh joins us to share some tips and talk about working dogs in warmer weather. We've got some tip specifically geared to dog guide handlers, and many that can benefit all dog handlers, owners and carer. Keep safe and cool! If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harriet is joined by Seeing Eye Dogs handler Phoebe to talk about her life and partnership with Seeing Eye Dog Angie. Phoebe is a graduate of our Youth Program and attended and graduated high school with Angie by her side, she's also a wonderful volunteer at Seeing Eye Dogs so Phoebe gives us a bit of behind the scenes into her work on site at Seeing Eye Dogs kennels and puppy block. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seeing Eye Dogs handler Sally Cutter joins us to talk about her life and story with Seeing Eye Dog Esther. Sally lives in Darwin and is a Senior Meteorologist. She also is a Scottish dancer, plays the double bass and loves going on outdoor adventures with her Seeing Eye Dog Esther. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seeing Eye Dogs puppy carer Emma Young joins Harriet to talk about her experiences as a first time carer. Emma is raising Ulyssa with the help of her mum and partner. She works full-time at the Victorian Fisheries Authority and brings Ulyssa to work. We discuss puppy caring and working full-time and how a supportive workplace and preparation can help teach puppy essential workplace skills. We're so thankful for our wonderful puppy carers like Emma for providing essential guidance and love to puppies to help them become Seeing Eye Dogs. We're looking for puppy carers now in select regions of VIC, NSW and QLD. You'll be provided with training and all care costs covered.  Upcoming puppy caring information sessions: In person at Seeing Eye Dogs HQ in Kensington (VIC) on January 16, 11am - 12pm (AEDT) Online Wednesday, January 28 6pm - 7pm (AEDT) Head to our website to find out about volunteering.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harriet is joined by Seeing Eye Dog handler Perle Peel. Perle is a graduate of our Youth Program and was matched with Seeing Eye Dog Jetta in 2024. The two also graduated high school together! We're going to talk about Perle's time in the Youth Program, her partnership with Jetta and their story. Navigating My Path program is open to people who are blind or have low vision who'd like to learn more about dog guide mobility. It gives adults the opportunity to learn about life with a Seeing Eye Dog and experience working with one. Reach out to Brooke: Brooke.Anderson@visionaustralia.org or 0448 093 817 or head to the website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/about-us/news-and-stories/25-10-20/navigating-my-path-independent-mobility-program to find out about the program or apply. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harriet is joined by very special guest, Ken Ramirez, to talk about science-based positive reinforcement and training. Ken is Executive Vice-President and Chief Training Officer of Karen Pryor Clicker Training (KPCT) and began his career training guide dogs in the US. He has spent over 50 years working with all different kinds of animals and people, promoting positive reinforcement training. He recently joined our team for a workshop for their professional development. Thanks Ken for sharing your knowledge and experience with us! 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! Our amazing trainers like Abi & Paige will help provide you with support and guidance, plus training one-on-one and group sessions to help you prepare the pup to be an incredible Seeing Eye Dog. This support, food, equipment, and medical costs are provided at no cost by Seeing Eye Dogs to puppy carer volunteers. Get in touch to find out about volunteering with us or apply now via our website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the show Harriet is joined by two guests: Puppy Development Trainer Abi Howes joins us to talk about social behaviour like calm greeting manners, appropriate interactions, and how to manage some of those tricky behaviours like jumping at guests and over-excited door greetings. Puppy Development Trainer Paige Don joins us to talk about welcoming a new/temporary puppy or dog into this house. At this time of the year with people doing dog-sitting, fostering, or our wonderful carers taking on a relief care (foster) extra pup, these are some tips to have a happy and healthy stay and avoid some of the cheeky trouble that visiting pups might try and get up to. 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! Our amazing trainers like Abi & Paige will help provide you with support and guidance, plus training one-on-one and group sessions to help you prepare the pup to be an incredible Seeing Eye Dog. This support, food, equipment, and medical costs are provided at no cost by Seeing Eye Dogs to puppy carer volunteers. Get in touch to find out about volunteering with us or apply now via our website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the show, Harriet is joined by handler Sam Byrne to talk about his life, story, and partnership with SED Tommy. Sam works in the city in finance, is a keen player of Goalball and enjoys walks around lake with Tommy. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by Seeing Eye Dogs Senior Instructor Brooke Anderson. Brooke is going to talk to us about the exciting new Navigating My Path program which will help inform and prepare potential handlers about all things dog guide mobility. This program brings a taste of life with a Seeing Eye Dog to our clients over 18 and comes after the success of the Youth Program. We also talk generally about eligibility for a Seeing Eye Dog. Navigating My Path program is open to people who are blind or have low vision across Australia who travel independently but are interested in the benefits of dog guide mobility. The program will run from June 2026 but enrolment is open now. Reach out to Brooke: Brooke.Anderson@visionaustralia.org or give her a call on 0448 093 817 or head to the website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/about-us/news-and-stories/25-10-20/navigating-my-path-independent-mobility-program to find out about the program or apply.   If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by Seeing Eye Dogs puppy and relief care volunteer and Vision Australia volunteer Steven Kroger. Steve is retired and has volunteered for Vision Australia and Seeing Eye Dogs since 2018. Steve keeps himself busy reviewing parmiganas, supporting clients, attending theatres and music events, and raising puppies. Keep streaming to hear about Steve's story as a volunteer and life with Seeing Eye Dogs pups. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by two guests. Breeder and puppy carer Kris Cantwell joins us to talk about her life with Omari and Omari's breeding career and retirement. Kris is a retired teacher, grandmother and an experienced puppy carer who raised, breeder cared for and now adopted Omari. If you've ever wondered about the life of our breeding dogs, or what happens to them in retirement- this interview has you covered. Dr Ashe Mooney from the Seeing Eye Dogs vet team joins us to talk about foods to avoid to keep your dog happy and healthy. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ We’re looking for more breeder carer volunteers in select regions of Melbourne listed on our website. Breeder carers care for the dogs in their homes full-time, and transport the dog to the Seeing Eye Dogs kennel facility in Kensington, VIC for breeding activities.  These dogs are over 1 year old accepted into the breeding colony selected for their lovely natures and maintain their manners during their time in the breeding program. Find out about breeder caring here: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/volunteer/breeding-dog We're also open for puppy caring and training dog caring across other regions of VIC, NSW & QLD. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs, the work we do, other caring roles or becoming a handler, head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by newly qualified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI) Shi Lin Tan from Guide Dogs Singapore and Senior Seeing Eye Dog Instructor Justin Marshall. Shi Lin completed her GDMI traineeship at Seeing Eye Dogs under the guidance of SED instructors Mikaela, Luca, and Justin and reflects upon her time and some of the learnings with our team in this interview. We also chat about the role and how instructors support client and dog teams. Having graduated from her traineeship, Shi Lin has now returned to Singapore where she'll train and support dog guide handlers there- congrats Shi Lin and we wish you all the best! If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by puppy development trainer Abi Howes. We're going to talk about some of the challenges of the season, preparing your dog or puppy and supporting them through this spooky season including strange and potentially scary decorations, tricky costumes for trick or treaters and unsafe temptations for dogs. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ For other training tips from Abi and our expert staff: https://omny.fm/shows/seeing-eye-dogs-show/playlists/training-tips  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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by Seeing Eye Dogs Dog Wellbeing and Adoptions Manager Kat Kakafikas. We're going to talk about the process for adopting a released dog, and how Seeing Eye Dogs works to match our career-changed dogs to the right forever family from writing an adoption profile for the dog, shortlisting candidates and adoptions meetings. If you'd like to find out more about released dog adoptions or find the dogs up for adoptions currently, head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/about-our-dogs/released-dogs/adopt If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Seeing Eye Dogs Show, Harriet is joined by Perth-based Seeing Eye Dogs Instructor Matt Wood. We're going to chat about Matt's background, his story and how he works with and supports clients across Western Australia. He'll also share tips for clients working with him and navigating life with a dog guide. If you'd like to find out more about Seeing Eye Dogs head to our website: https://sed.visionaustralia.org/ If you're blind or have low vision and are interested in becoming a handler or applying for a Seeing Eye Dog, please email us at info@sed.org.au or call on 1800 037 773 to discuss dog guide mobility, eligibility or assessment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.