Today is Guide Dog Day which aims to raise funds for guide and assistance dogs

May 10th is Guide Dog Day.

The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is holding a one day national fundraising day today.

The event aims to change the lives of those who are vision impaired and the families of children with autism.

Puppy-in-Training, Oonagh. Photo: Conor McCabe Photography

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is a national charity dedicated to helping people living with sight loss or autism improve their mobility and independence.

It costs the organisation over €5 million annually to provide their free services.

The breeding, training and maintenance of each guide and assistance dog costs almost €53,000. 

Gemma Kane and her son Oliver (9) with their Assistance Dog, Marco. Photo: Conor McCabe Photography

Collections are taking place around the country, or you can text WOOF to 50300 to donate €4, or donate online at guidedogs.ie/donate

Louise from The Hub spoke to Lynda Foley, Regional Volunteer Coordinator with the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, to find out more about Guide Dog Day.