A group of Seeing Eye Dog puppies will make their way through Brisbane CBD, drawing attention and curiosity as they walk from Central Station to the Botanic Gardens for International Guide Dog Day.
A Walk That Draws Attention
The walk will see puppies-in-training, alongside volunteers and trainers, make their way through the city before arriving at The Gardens Club café on Gardens Point Road. Running from 10:30 am to 11:30 am on 29 April, the Brisbane CBD event brings together those involved in the development of Seeing Eye Dogs, from early training through to placement.
It marks a day dedicated to recognising the work behind each dog, including the role of trainers, veterinary staff, volunteers, donors and the people who rely on them.
Opening the Program to the Public
What begins as a walk through the city settles into a more relaxed gathering at the gardens. At The Gardens Club, members of the public are encouraged to come down, enjoy a coffee and spend time with the puppies while learning more about Seeing Eye Dogs and the services available.
The event offers an opportunity to ask questions, explore volunteer roles and understand how the program supports people who are blind or have low vision. Informal moments, including time spent with the puppies, sit alongside conversations about how each dog is prepared for its future role.
The Journey Behind Each Dog
While the interaction may be brief, the path behind each puppy is extensive. It takes around two years of training and care before a Seeing Eye Dog becomes fully qualified, with the cost of raising and preparing a single dog in excess of $50,000.
Across Australia, more than 260 active handlers are currently supported by working Seeing Eye Dogs. Their role is to assist people who are blind or have low vision to move through daily life with greater mobility and independence.
As the only national provider, trainer and breeder of Seeing Eye Dogs in Australia, Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs supports people across the country through every stage of this process.
Part of a Wider Day of Recognition
The Brisbane CBD walk takes place as part of International Guide Dog Day, held each year on the last Wednesday in April. The day recognises the broader journey of Seeing Eye Dogs and the people involved in their development.
Similar activities are taking place across Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales, bringing together clients, volunteers and dogs in coordinated walks and community events.
Published 27-Apr-2026
