In this issue

Ed’s note: Part of something bigger

Braille alphabet

Head Office report: Marketing News

Johannesburg events: New events in Gauteng

Inspiration: It’s never too late

COM report: Latest news

KwaZulu-Natal report: Marketing news

Corporate feature

Cape Town report: Fundraising news

Cape Town event: World Sight Gala Dinner

Meet the team: Charné Maujean

In memory of: GDA wall of remembrance

Puppy Raiser: Hilda Longster

Graduates: Our latest partnerships

Storyline: Heinrich and Viking - Graduation day

Johannesburg events: The Gift of Independence Wine & Dine Party

Nursery news: What’s been happening in Puppy Block

Puppy Raising: Do you want to become a Puppy Raiser?

Remembering friends

Meet the team: Sanette Harmse

Info: Health and safety

Storyline: Diane Marks and Morris

FAQs: How to interact with a Guide Dog owner

Health: Genetic retinal vision loss - the facts

Volunteer: Lorna Stern

New ideas: Fresh faces on the GDA team

1

Ed’s NoteLaura Kapelari

Part of something bigger

I recently found myself in our Puppy Block, surrounded by a sea of Labrador and Golden Retriever fluff, licks and paws. While trying not to step on any of these busy bodies, I fully became aware of the ‘circle of life’ that takes place right here at S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind (GDA).

Surrounded by many future Guide Dogs, Service Dogs and Autism Support Dogs, many of whom were only just learning to run around properly without losing their balance, I felt rich with the knowledge that they might all one day completely change someone’s life for the better.

Right at this very moment, a person who has just become, or is already, visually or physically impaired, or suffers from a developmental challenge such as autism, is facing the challenges of daily life completely on their own, or perhaps dependent on a family member.

But in one or two years, for some of these people, this will all change when one of these little pups becomes their working dog.

It is truly special to see the golden thread that runs through the work that everyone here at S A Guide-Dogs does. From the Kennel and Puppy Raising staff, who whelp and look after the puppies, to the Puppy Raisers, who take these little creatures on for the next year, teaching and socialising them. Next, the pups who’ve made the grade return to GDA for formal training with our instructors, who start them on the path of a working dog’s life.

Finally, the special day comes when these dogs are matched to their visually or physically impaired owners. From this day on, this partnership will work together to overcome the challenges that life may throw at them, showing everyone, including themselves, that life does not end with a visual or physical impairment. It simply evolves into something else.

In this issue of our Friend in Harness magazine, filled with stories about the wonderful achievements of many of our clients, I urge you to consider the many people behind each one of our working dogs, who have helped make each unit the success it is today.

Head office report – Marketing news

Marketing and fundraising highlights of 2016

It has been an incredibly busy start to the year, but we are happy to report that the 2015/2016 financial year was a very successful one. Here is a taste of what we have been up to thus far and what is in store for you later this year.

2016 Car Raffle Competition Our 2016 Car Raffle Competition is in full swing, and we have a number of expos (Hobby-X, Outdoor Expo, Icon Gaming Convention and World of Dogs and Cats) under our belt. The closing date for our 2016 Car Raffle Competition is 14 October 2016. A Suzuki Celerio is up for grabs.

2

The draw will take place on 23 November 2016. If you haven’t yet bought your Car Raffle ticket, you can do so via our website or phone us at Head Office and we will assist you. The Marketing Team looks forward to seeing you all at this year’s line-up of expos and shopping malls.

UberPawsOn 3 June 2016, Johannesburg was abuzz with news that Guide Dog puppies in training would be making visits to Uber users.

For only R100, Uber app users were able to request 15 minutes of pooch playtime, for which every rand was donated directly to GDA. What’s more, Uber donated a percentage of their May trips to S A Guide-Dogs as part of the UberGIVING initiative. This amounted to a whopping R90,000!

Twenty-four Puppy Raisers with their pups were partnered with 24 Uber drivers. Between 10h30 - 13h30, they crisscrossed all over Johannesburg, bringing joy to those lucky enough to have their pleas for puppy love answered.

Having at one point been trending at the number one spot on Twitter, it was a very successful initiative that we hope to repeat in the near future.

Thank you to Uber, our Puppy Raisers, volunteers and the Uber drivers – we could not have done it without you! A big thank you also goes out to those of you who requested #UberPaws – thank you for your support.

Kyalami Golf Day

The day began with a shotgun start at 11h00. As the siren rang out across the golf course, 36 teams (a total of 144 players) teed off on a crisp winter morning on the pristine greens of Kyalami Country Club’s golf course.

At the end of the day, everyone – all 36 four-balls – received a prize. Roll-Up Serranda made it into 3rd place, while Waco Africa (last year’s winners) fought their way into 2nd place. This year’s winners were the Franki Africa four-ball. Well done!

Thank you to Panorama Media Corp for supplying the auctioneer and MC. Urs Honegger ran the auction and sponsorship drive with professionalism and humour. Bruce Dennill, the MC, ensured that the evening proceeded smoothly.

Thanks to South African Breweries (SAB), Appletiser, Sunbake and Chubby Chuck who sponsored delicious prego rolls and chilled drinks at the halfway house.

We would like to thank all of the sponsors of the wonderful prizes and auction lots.

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to Glenda Rae and the organising team for all their hard work and tireless effort in making this day happen.

The Kyalami Golf Day grows from strength to strength with each passing year. If you did not make it to our June Golf Day, we are holding a Golf Day at Glendower Country Club on 23 November 2016. Contact Alson at AlsonM@guidedog.org.za for information.

3

Winter Music PicnicOn Sunday, 26 June 2016, we held our first annual Winter Music Picnic. The entertainment line-up included Blu Earth Marimba Band, Irish and Highland dancers from Robinson Dance Studio, and the De La Salle Combined Pipers.

A selection of different artistic styles, in various mediums (oils, pastels, acrylics and photography), were on display and for sale. Our gourmet food stall section was a haven for many a hungry picnic-goer, with artisanal ice cream, food stands and delectable relishes as well as craft beer and wine on offer.

Many people took advantage of an early Christmas shopping opportunity at the various arts and crafts stalls. Our book stall, teeming with a vast range of titles, was very popular on the day.

Our Winter Music Picnic was a fabulous day out and we hope to have it on our event calendar again next year. Thank you to everyone who helped to make it a huge success!

Team Guide-Dogs in the Telkom 947 Cycle ChallengeThis year, Team Guide-Dogs will once again be competing in the Telkom 947 Cycle Challenge, raising much-needed funds along the way.

Team Guide-Dogs hopes to increase the number of cyclists (100) who supported our cause in 2015. We have registered as an official 947 Cycle Challenge charity via the ‘Ride for a Purpose’ division. This is a brilliant platform for fundraising as well as awareness. Last year, Team Guide-Dogs raised in excess of R150,000!

If you would like to be part of Team Guide-Dogs or know of someone who may be interested in riding for S A Guide-Dogs, you will need to do the following:• Enter and register via the Telkom 947 Cycle Challenge website.• Once you have entered and paid, forward your details (name, surname, ID number) to LauraK@guidedog.org.za so we can add you to the charity bond.• In order to officially join Team Guide-Dogs, riders also need to make an additional Team Guide-Dogs donation of R694.70.

Benefits:• Favourable charity start times between 05h45 and 09h15• Team Guide-Dogs cycle jersey• Race pack collection on your behalf• Pre-race cocktail evening at GDA• Post-event hospitality at the venue• The chance to win one of three fantastic prizes by raising additional funds via sponsorships

We look forward to another very successful Telkom 947 Cycle Challenge as well as meeting all of this year’s riders. Registration for Team Guide-Dogs closes on 22 August 2016.

We also have several other projects taking place later this year. Please keep an eye on our website and social media for more information about these events closer to the time.

4

Johannesburg EventsNew events in Gauteng

For ladies and senior citizens to enjoy and learn more about S A Guide-Dogs. Some great entertainment lined up for our supporters.

Senior Citizens’ TeaIn honour of World Sight Day, S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind is introducing a Senior Citizens’ Tea to our annual event calendar. This will take place on Thursday, 13 October 2016, from 09h30 until 11h30 at our premises in Johannesburg.

The programme will feature Arlene van Huyssteen (owner of Low Vision Support Services), who will be speaking about managing loss of vision. Melette Els (Guide Dog owner and Social Worker) will in turn relate her experiences as a person who is visually impaired. The programme will also include talks on Puppy Raising, Service Dog training, Guide Dog training, and Autism Support Dog training.

This event is open to people over the age of 65. Entrance is free, but you need to submit your date of birth and join our mailing list to book. Capacity is limited.

If you would like to attend, please RSVP by calling 011 705 3512 or via email at LauraK@guidedog.org.za by Thursday, 29 September 2016.

Ladies’ High TeaJoin us on Saturday, 26 November 2016, from 10h00 - 12h00 for our second High Tea. This event is for ladies only.

Let us enchant you on this fresh summer day with delectable teas and eats. The Tea Merchant will be sponsoring delicious hot and iced tea tasters as well as special giveaway hampers on the day.

Be entertained by our speakers, Phil Case (Service Dog owner), Wendy Case (Puppy Raiser) and Shirley de Bruijn (Guide Dog owner). Each of our speakers will give you a glimpse into the life of a person whose life has been enhanced by a working dog. Tickets cost R250. Please RSVP to Laura at LauraK@guidedog.org.za by Friday, 11 November 2016.

Inspiration – It’s Never too lateMargaret Keen

The story of Margaret and Emory

I am an elderly lady of 96 years. I have had dogs all my life, training and breeding German Shepherds as well as other dog breeds as general obedience, competition and working dogs. But as the years passed, I was down to one Border Collie called Kelly, given to me by my grandson who had moved overseas.

Getting a Guide Dog

It then became evident that I needed to go to a retirement village, where Kelly and I enjoyed going out to Rondebosch Common and any green areas open to dogs.

5

But it then also became necessary to give up driving my car, so I bought an electrified four-wheel scooter, and as Kelly got older, she learnt to sit on my scooter so that she could still go to grassed areas. But then came the day when I no longer had a dog. I was desolate until someone suggested that I get a Guide Dog.

I approached the management of the retirement village for permission, as the villagers were no longer allowed to have dogs or cats. I received permission and then applied to S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind for a Guide Dog.

I finally received the letter telling me to report for training in Claremont, Cape Town, for training. Yippee! I was going to get a dog, and didn’t have to go to Johannesburg for training.

Meeting EmoryI packed a bag for two weeks of training with my dog, and couldn’t believe my luck when I met my beautiful Golden Retriever called Emory. I was trained with Emory for one week only. When I returned home, I wanted to show off my clever Emory to everyone, so I persuaded my daughter to take Emory and me to Cavendish Square Shopping Centre, where we walked around the shops and tried out an escalator to see how clever Emory was. We waited until there were fewer people around, and then stepped onto the escalator.

We seemed to attract dozens of people doing the same thing. Unfortunately, with this crush of people, I forgot to lengthen the lead and stand behind Emory – so when we got to the top of the escalator, Emory jumped and I was pulled off. I did manage to land on my feet though, but it was a lesson I will never forget.

As time went by, Emory learnt to trot beside my scooter. She has almost reached retirement age and we are both retiring to a smaller cottage with a tiny grassed area for her, where we will continue to be companions.

COM Report – Latest newsWhat’s been happening at the College of Orientation and Mobility

Meet the people who work tirelessly to teach people who are visually impaired how to navigate their daily life.

July 2016 volunteer Sandra Stirnweis, a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist from the Southern Arizona Association for the Visually Impaired, volunteered at the College of Orientation and Mobility in July 2016. She taught our students practical orientation and mobility training skills for children. Our students learn about the theory of ‘Early Child Development and The Visually Impaired Child’ during their third block of training. Sandra has over 25 years of experience and enjoys working with children who have multiple disabilities.In addition to this, Sandra worked at Sibonile School for the Visually Impaired.

Sighted Guide WorkshopsOn 12 and 17 March 2016 the College offered Sighted Guide Workshops to the public. Both workshops were well attended, with a total of 21 people trained to assist visually impaired people as sighted guides. A group of boys from Pretoria Boys High enthusiastically participated in all activities and were very positive about learning a new life skill. Training focused on being able to guide someone in everyday situations – guiding someone to a chair, through a narrow space, up and down stairs, through a doorway, getting into or out of a motor vehicle, and shopping (using a trolley). Our highly skilled Orientation and Mobility Practitioners

6

patiently coached the participants through the training, providing ample opportunity to practice the skills taught. Due to the positive response from participants, we will be offering more workshops in the future.

A tribute to Moira Higgerty by Michelle WigginsI graduated from the Orientation and Mobility School in 1990, under the guidance of Moira and Michaela Rhodes, so one would think it would be just a distant memory. Yet, 26 years later, I can still vividly recall many amazing memories of Moira. Come rain, sleet or sunshine, Moira would be at that Kombi ready to take us out on our daily blindfold mobility sessions.

The difference between a ‘landmark’ and ‘clue’ was drummed into us. Moira tirelessly reminded us to improve our cane techniques, and she always had her lectures meticulously organised. They were informative and unbelievably valuable. She often had her two beloved Border Collies with her at work, and in the odd free moment at lunchtime, I would admire her ability to control those wonderful dogs with a short whistle and a voice command.

After completing my course, I went on to work with Moira and Michaela. I admired Moira’s ability to set up guest lecturers, to negotiate with various chiefs in the then Venda villages to allow us permission to use the villages, her constant striving for finding possible solutions to the needs of the visually impaired within our unique South African environment, and so much more. Moira set up complex timetables and exams, and never allowed the standards to drop. I respect and commend her for that!

Moira worked tirelessly to ensure the Mobility Instructors got hands-on job experience, and where possible, she arranged for them to watch eye operations, visit Braille and low-vision centres and the like, in order to build up their own resources and be able to give an all-round professional service once they left her well-rounded course.

Moira, as strict as she appeared to the mobility students, has a heart of gold and was always willing to give extra help and assistance to Mobility Instructors who were not grasping concepts. At times when Michaela and I ran out of ways to get information across, Moira would calmly step in and, with her very gentle and steady voice and even temperament, would somehow have the complex concept grasped in no time.

Hats off to you, Moira. You deserve a wonderful retirement after having dedicated so much of your life to helping others. You left me with many happy memories and a lifelong appreciation of orientation and mobility.

Student community placementStudent community placement is part of the Orientation and Mobility Practitioners’ practical training. This year, after the students had completed their block two theory work at the College in December 2015, they put what they learnt into practice from January until mid-May. This helps the community, as services are being offered to people who are visually impaired. During this placement, the students were expected to train a minimum of seven clients who are blind or partially sighted. Services offered include long cane training and skills of daily living. The role of the Orientation and Mobility Practitioner is to ensure independence for people with visual impairment, irrespective of age.

Michelle Huma, Mmalomile Mokoena and Nomonde Tanda are student supervisors; their role as O&M Facilitators is to give support, guidance, advice and help when it is needed. They spend time with the students in the field and observe them conducting lessons. Their role is to ensure that the students are able to provide quality training to their visually impaired clients.

7

Student community placement by Michelle HumaI had the opportunity to supervise Meggie Banda and Isaac Mashiane, who were based in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni. The two students had to find suitable clients in the community. They did this by visiting the local clinics and other community-based organisations that assist the differently abled.

They had to prepare a detailed O&M programme for each of their clients. This included teaching cane techniques, training people with low vision on how to use their remaining vision effectively, training people on how to get from one point to another safely, and skills of daily living. They offered support and counselling for clients who were in need of it. The students trained a total of 14 clients during their community placement period.

Jonas Ramokoka, one of Isaac’s clients, is 56 years old and totally blind with no cane skills. He wanted to be as independent as possible, and he was very happy when Isaac began training him. When he first started with his O&M training, he wanted to be able to walk to the spaza shop on his own. He worked very hard and practiced the cane techniques that Isaac taught him. This enabled him to reach his goal of independently walking to the spaza shop. Teaching Jonas money identification ensured that he would be able to handle money with confidence when making a purchase. Jonas is one example of the impact that Orientation and Mobility training has on visually impaired people.

Community placement by Mmalomile MokoenaI supervised Florence Mampuru and Godfrey Magagula. Florence worked at Itereleng Care Facility in Ga-Rankuwa, near Pretoria. Here she provided direct services within the centre, working with people between the ages of 18 and 50. As many of the clients stay at the centre, Florence did not have to travel out into the surrounding community a great deal.

Godfrey was placed at Kwamhlanga Hospital in Mpumalanga, as he is employed by the Mpumalanga Department of Health. He provided direct services to the community in their homes. This was a challenge, as he had to share transport with other health workers, so he could not always visit clients as often as needed. It is important to teach the skills in the clients’ own home environment, as the landmarks and clues which would help them navigate that area are not present in a hospital or clinic setting. Godfrey’s clients ranged in age from 34 to 70.

Some of the clients were seen by the students on their first community placement last year, so they could continue with their training. They reviewed the previous lessons and continued by teaching them new techniques. These students assisted 20 people who are visually impaired over a four-month period. This is a fantastic achievement for us at the College of Orientation and Mobility, as so many community members are in desperate need of this training.

Community placement by Nomonde TandaThe two students I supervised in Mpumalanga were placed in different towns. Phumzile was placed in White River at Themba Hospital, as she is employed by the Mpumalanga Health Department. She was working with visually impaired clients who were learning handwork at Tenteleni Centre. She was also training clients in the community and visited them in their homes. Long cane training formed a main part of this training, as she taught clients to cross streets as well as routes to walk to different places.

8

Phumzile also had a group of clients who wanted to learn to cook. She started with peeling vegetables and chopping. The group was very excited, because she allowed each individual to show their skills to the others. This technique gave them confidence. Phumzile gave different vegetables to each person in the group. After her lesson, she asked the clients to share the difficulties and successes that they had come across during their task. During the discussion, one of her clients told the group that she had been scared to use a knife and other peeling utensils. She continued by saying that now she will no longer worry about cooking half-peeled potatoes. Phumzile also taught a low-vision client how to walk using her residual vision by tracing a line, using the grass and tracking a moving object. This client used to stay at home because she was afraid of bumping into objects.

Sindisiwe was placed in Ermelo Provincial Hospital, as she is employed by the Mpumalanga Department of Health. She worked in different communities that the hospital is servicing. Several clients were taught how to use a white cane, as they wanted to be able to move around in their area independently. One of her clients needed to get to the local spaza shop. She introduced landmarks along the route, from the client’s house to the spaza shop. After she had been taught all the cane techniques, the client was taught how to apply them while walking the route. Sindisiwe and Phumzile helped a total of 14 visually impaired people in the community.

KwaZulu-Natal report – Marketing NewsDi Turner

GDA has been busy in KwaZulu-Natal. Read on to find out what’s been happening!

KZN breakdownFirst up we had the Royal Show. It went well, with the supportive and friendly Pietermaritzburgers out in full force on the day. Nevertheless, the general downturn in economic activity is also noticeable at such expos, with a lower foot count evident.

We recently had the annual Cars in the Park event, and what a lovely day it was! I would like to say a big thank you to the Vintage Sports Car Club for letting us have a stall on the day.

The next big event in Pietermaritzburg is the Witness Garden Show from 23 to 25 September 2016. As usual, it will be your last chance to get your Car Raffle tickets, so do come along and support us. We are also hoping to attend the Hilton Arts Festival this year, which runs from 16 to 18 September, so keep an eye out for us there too.

The Annual Street Collection date has been applied for, but not confirmed by the municipality at this stage. Nevertheless, it will be around the end of November, so if you are on my famous helpers’ list, you can expect a phone call around that time. If you would like to help us on the day, please give me a call so that I can add you to the list. Just a few hours of your time would make a big difference to our fundraising efforts.

This year’s Golf Day will take place on Sunday, 30 October 2016. Please diarise the date and start assembling your four-ball. It will once again be held at the beautiful Umdoni Park Golf Club in Pennington. As usual, we desperately need prizes, so if you have anything suitable to donate or can organise anything in the way of prizes, please phone me on 021 671 7394 or email at DianeT@guidedog.org.za and I will collect.

9

Once again, I would like to thank all the helpers who support me at these events year after year. You are all stars!

Corporate Feature – Corporates giving back to S A Guide-Dogs

A big thank you to Dennis Jankelow & Associates for their ongoing support. To date, South Africa’s foremost aviation insurance brokers have supported the Association with three Platinum Working Dog Sponsorships.

The start of a partnership

Staff have met Tenille, Kenobi and Zeke as puppies and have been able to track their progress. Tenille, the oldest, is already a working Guide Dog, Kenobi is part of the way through his formal training as a Service Dog, and Zeke is still enjoying his Puppy Raising year.

The Association’s relationship with DJA started when S A Guide-Dogs was invited to participate in a teambuilding event with DJA staff. DJA staff were asked to wear blindfolds and navigate from the starting point to their tables. Each staff member experienced having their refreshments without the aid of their vision, and listened to Pieter van Niekerk (Head Marketing) talk about how he copes with his daily chores without sight. This teambuilding was the spark that forged an understanding of the challenges faced by people who are visually impaired. This interest has translated into a solid relationship between DJA and S A Guide-Dogs.

Corporate supportS A Guide-Dogs Association welcomes corporate support in any form. Some corporates have made the Association a beneficiary of their golf day. Other corporates make a donation in December in lieu of gifts to their suppliers and customers. S A Guide-Dogs Association sends out a special Season’s Greetings e-card acknowledging the donation received from the company on behalf of their customers.

Thanks again to DJA for your amazing support – we really appreciate all your support.

Cape Town report – Fundraising newsTeagan Schwerin and Avril Salo

Raising awareness in the Cape2016 started off on a very positive note, with various talks and sporting events. These events go a long way toward raising awareness about S A Guide-Dogs in Cape Town.

Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital’s rehabilitation unit – spinal cord injury support groupIn February 2016 we were invited to the Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital’s monthly spinal cord injury support group meeting. We were privileged to have Esther Bedeker, with her Service Dog Yanky, and Heidi Vollmer, with her Service Dog Olivia, in attendance to share their stories. Their input went a long way toward helping the support group members to voice their own anxieties in terms of their quality of life as disabled persons. Thank you, ladies, for sharing your stories.

Camps Bay Preparatory SchoolValentine’s Day at Camps Bay Prep is a permanent entry in the S A Guide-Dogs’ diary. Cairie van der Vyver and her Guide Dog Willah have become an institution at the school. Surrounded by the Grade 1 to Grade 3 learners, Cairie is transformed by her love for children and her dog as she shares her story with them.

10

It is amazing how much the children absorb during this session. One little boy met us a few months later at the Getaway Expo, and very proudly told us the story of S A Guide-Dogs; even what it costs to raise a Guide Dog!

Cape Peninsula MarathonThis year, we were once again chosen by Celtic Harriers to be a beneficiary of the Cape Peninsula Marathon. Besides manning the water station with the Rondebosch Boys, we also had a presence at the two registration points. We had great fun on the day and raised awareness about S A Guide-Dogs. We look forward to a long and prosperous relationship with Top Events, Celtic Harriers and Rondebosch Boys High School.

Love Your Guide Dog The Love Your Guide Dog’s dinner has become an annual event in the Fish Hoek area. This third-party event is arranged and hosted by Service Dog owners Janice Salthouse and Dawn Pilatowicz to celebrate the month of love. This year was no different. Sandra Prinsloo was the MC for the evening, while Guide Dog owner Michelle Botha enthralled the guests with love songs. Thank you to everyone who was involved. A big thank you goes to Janice and Dawn, as well as the corporate sponsors from the Fish Hoek area.

Cape Town Cycle TourThis year ushered in a new era for the Cape Town Cycle Tour and our association with the race. We had a team of cyclists in the tour as well as a stand at the expo in the charity lane. Our cyclists did us proud. One of our stalwart cyclists, Keith Litten, had an accident during the race. We are, however, happy to report that he is well on the road to recovery and we look forward to having him on our team again.

The expo moved to a new venue – the Cape Town Stadium. Our dogs were absolute showstoppers and we were well supported by visitors and cyclists alike. Thank you to Team Guide-Dogs, Guide Dog owners and Puppy Raisers. We look forward to an even bigger team for next year.

Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon (OMTOM)2016 at the Two Oceans Marathon was an amazing experience for S A Guide-Dogs. During 2015, Teagan, our Marketing Manager, applied to be a beneficiary of this year’s race. Our application was successful, and at the opening of the expo we received a cheque for R75,000 from the OMTOM. We were bowled over to say the least! Thank you to OMTOM and the runners who supported us as their charity of choice. We are humbled at your spirit of generosity.

Getaway ExpoThis year’s show exceeded all expectations – ours and those of the event organisers. Despite bad weather for the first two days, the crowds kept coming. Visitors to the show expect us to be there and come looking for our stand to buy their Car Raffle tickets for a chance to win the car. Thank you to Somerset West Motors for providing a vehicle annually to help with the sale of our Car Raffle tickets. A big thank you goes to Ramsay Media for providing us with the stand at the show.

Charity golf daysThe golf days took place at Durbanville Golf Club in December 2015 and Westlake Golf Club in April 2016. Thank you to our sponsors, players and clubs. We are looking forward to growing and hosting successful golf days. Look out for our upcoming ‘early bird special’.

Pets Expo

11

We were fortunate enough to have a stand at the Tygervalley Shopping Mall Pets Expo from 2 to 5 June 2016, where shoppers had the opportunity to meet some of our Guide Dogs, Service Dogs and dogs in training. It was an interactive four days where we were able to impart knowledge on the work that we do for our community. Thank you very much to Laretha Blom of Tygervalley Shopping Mall for your generosity.

Thank youA very big thank you to all our Puppy Raisers and volunteers for your contribution and dedication to GDA. None of this would be possible without you! Thank you also to the schools, service clubs, social clubs, organisers of expos and events, and a special mention to Lions Clubs for your ongoing support and belief in the work that we do.

Upcoming events Dancers Love Dogs: 6 September 2016A beautiful production at Artscape Theatre. GDA will raise awareness during intermission.

Wild Oats Market: 17 September 2016A wonderful market that takes place at Sedgefield. We are fortunate to participate in this market annually.

Karoo to Coast: 18 September 2016A cycle race from Uniondale to Knysna hosted by the Knysna and Uniondale Lions Clubs. This is an annual event.

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon: 18 September 2016We have been selected as a charity for the marathon and will have an activation point on race day along the route. We will also have a group of runners representing us and running for GDA.

Hobby X: 7 October 2016We will be a part of this huge expo at the CTICC.

World Sight Day Gala Dinner: 15 October 2016Cape Town’s gala dinner, taking place on 15 October 2016 at the prestigious Kelvin Grove Ballroom.

Golf Day: 25 November 2016This event will take place at the Durbanville Golf Club.

Bookshop The bookshop is open every day and also on the last Saturday of every month at 89 Belvedere Road, Claremont.

Meet the team – Charné MaujeanDog lover with an artistic side

Charné Maujean answered some questions so that you can get to know her better.

How long have you been working for S A Guide-Dogs Association (GDA)? Just over five years now.

12

What do you do at GDA?I am a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor.

How did you get involved with S A Guide-Dogs?I met Cheryl Robertson while I was working at a vet shop. She came in with a young Guide Dog in training. We got chatting and became friends. She told me they needed another trainer, so I applied.

What’s your favourite part of your job? Seeing my new, young, untrained pups arrive and then leave as well-disciplined Guide Dogs.

What is your least favourite?Having to say goodbye to my dogs, as we get very attached. But it’s not too bad, as we do keep in touch.

What would you say is the biggest challenge facing visually or physically impaired people in South Africa? Access to facilities and access to public transport.

If you could implement a new law to help the differently-abled community, what would it be?I would make sure there was better public transport with verbal communication on all the public transport systems, so that people who are visually impaired know where they are at all times.

Do you have any pets? Yes, I have one dog, one cat, fish and two bearded dragons.

If you could go back in time, what year would you travel to and why?I loved the year 2004, when I started working at Blue Cross Vet. I got to be involved with all kinds of animals and had the opportunity to hand-raise squirrels, birds, kittens and puppies on many occasions.

Tea or coffee? Tea

Which song is guaranteed to put you in a great mood for the rest of the day? Songs from the ’90s, as they bring back memories of my school years.

What is your favourite food? Pizza

What is your biggest pet peeve? I do not enjoy sarcastic people.

What kind of music do you listen to? Whatever is on the radio.

Do you have any hidden talents? Yes, I am quite artistic and love painting. I have done paintings of wild animals and enjoy doing portraiture.

If you could have a superpower, which would you choose? To fly.

13

Do you have a role model? If so, who is it?Marilyn Hoole. She is the founder of TEARS Animal Rescue and she inspires me to keep helping animals wherever I can.

What makes you smile? My dogs and my children.

In memory of – GDA Wall of RemembrancePieter van Niekerk

The unveiling of the Wall of Remembrance will take place on 19 February 2017. Order your special memory plaque now!

We often treasure fond memories of a special person or a special four-footed friend, but don’t always have the opportunity to pay tribute to their positive influence in our lives. Do you wish to keep your memories alive by sharing them with like-minded people who have the same thoughts?

Wall of RemembranceGDA has introduced a Wall of Remembrance at our Gladys Evans Training Centre in Johannesburg. This will give you the opportunity to honour a loved one or special occasion with an engraved brass plaque.

A special plaque can mark a momentous occasion in a lasting way. Birthday, anniversary, wedding and graduation messages can also be added to the Wall of Remembrance to mark a special day with a message of love and good wishes for the future.

Each personalised brass plaque will cost R500. The plaques will be prominently displayed on the south wall outside our auditorium entrance.

Please take note of the following:• Message must not exceed 140 characters (spaces included) and not be more than four lines.• Your message will be engraved on a 215mm by 60mm brass plate in a standard Calibri font (caps) with a 24 character size.• All engraving to be actioned after 31 December 2016, in one batch.• Unveiling will take place at a Guide Dog Graduation Ceremony in early 2017.• If you have purchased a plaque you will be invited to the unveiling and Guide Dog Graduation.

Let your memories live on for years by supporting this unique fundraising project and assist us to provide independence, mobility and companionship.

For more information on this exciting campaign, please visit www.guidedog.org.za or email fundraising@guidedog.org.za

Puppy Raiser – Meet Hilda LongsterChristine Voigt

14

Having raised 15 puppies, Hilda is a puppy professionalHilda came to South Africa from the UK in 1981 with her late husband Fred and daughter Rachel. Her husband was working for Dorbyl, so they were first based in Vanderbijlpark.

He later moved to Diamond Power, and they then made their base in Sasolburg. Hilda, a teacher by profession, worked at Santa Maria Convent School in the Vaal Triangle from 1981 until 1998. When Hilda’s husband passed away in 1997, Rachel, who by this time was living and working in Johannesburg, was concerned about what her mother “may get up to,” and so suggested that Hilda move up to Johannesburg and stay with her. Hilda agreed to this provided that she had “her own front door,” so an extension on Rachel’s small house was created.

Using her time fruitfullyAfter her retirement from teaching and her move to Johannesburg, Hilda found that time grew on her hands and so she went in search of part-time activities. This took her to Free Me and Riding for the Disabled. For a number of years these organisations filled the gap, but as time went by, Hilda decided that she could use her time more fruitfully and wanted to meet more people.

She went to S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind (GDA) by chance in December 2000, on a Wednesday, where she met Joan Daly and Dot McKenna, who are still Wednesday Vollies to this day. They suggested she come and work on a Wednesday, but only in the new year, as they were finishing that day for the Christmas holidays. This was the beginning of her role at GDA.

Having been an active Vollie for a number of months, Hilda then decided that perhaps Puppy Raising would be another good way of meeting people. One of her own dogs had passed away, so there was space in her heart for another. And so Hilda made enquiries to establish whether she was a suitable candidate. She was, and her first puppy was Guthrie, who she got in January 2002.

Puppy Raiser extraordinaireHilda has raised a total of 15 puppies. In the early years she was given guidance by the late Ken Lord, Rose Chamberlain (granny Rosy), and the current Executive Director, Gail Glover, who have helped make her the Puppy Raiser she is today. As she admits, all the puppies have been different both in character and temperament, but she has loved every day of the 15 years (as a Puppy Raiser you only have one puppy per year) and, of course, every puppy. Only two of her puppies did not make the grade – Pippin, a Golden Retriever, who had severe skin allergies, and Gino, also a Golden Retriever, who was withdrawn due to his fear of traffic. Pippin lived a very happy and contented life in the Longster household until his death in late 2015, and Gino is still helping to raise the puppies – as best he can!

Graduates – Our latest partnershipsNew partnerships on their journey to independence

In 2016, a number of new partnerships were forged. We wish all of these new partnerships the very best on their journey towards independence, mobility and companionship.

New partnershipsMorris Frank, owner of Buddy (the first Guide Dog in the United States), summed up his own experience as follows: “Buddy had shown me that if I did my part, we two would walk together in safety […] That night a

15

partnership was born, the beginning of a life together – a man and a dog, a man whose dog meant to him emancipation, a new world, and other worlds to conquer.”

Guide Dog classesFebruary 2016, Johannesburg – Instructors: Moses Kendle and Permit MncubeGraduate Guide Dog Puppy RaiserMarietjie Coetzee Abra Heidi BergesenGadija Ismail Asia Rene ClulowClint Steadman Angelo Storm AustenWillem van der Walt Patrick Sharon and Jose Antunes

February 2016, Cape Town – Instructors: Cheryl Robertson and Joel van StavelGraduate Guide Dog Puppy RaiserJohandre den Haan Elbe Laura and Markus KorhonenMagdalena Fourie Helene Nicola and Stefan KostlinRuben Janse van Rensburg Wellington Ania and Grant FinnemoreLois Strachan Fiji Jenny and Mike Evans

April 2016, Johannesburg – Instructors: Karen Opie and Permit MncubeGraduate Guide Dog Puppy RaiserKalairani Chetty Edwin Kate GruberFrancois du Toit Brinley Esme MarshallHannelie Minnie Barley Louise and Mark HamiltonStefan Steyn Bowie Sue Mackenzie

June 2016, Johannesburg – Instructors: Percival Tlholoe and Hayley CummingGraduate Guide Dog Puppy RaiserAnne Beukes Juliet Robyn TserpesThea du Plooy Hershey Nerene and Robert NienaberWesley Grant Barkis Jem GlendenningBrendan Griesel Hubble Jackie and Neil WebbIvaan Levendal Lewis Trina and Ian McKinleyDeidre Roderiques Kuben Annabelle NothnagelBriony Steenkamp Ludo Natalie OwenAlre van Staden Jasper Debbie Adam

SERVICE DOG CLASSESMay 2016, Johannesburg – Instructor: Leon BunguzaGraduate Service Dog Puppy RaiserJana Roodt Wallace Simone and Nick Davel

June 2016, Johannesburg – Instructor: Vincent SeabaGraduate Service Dog Puppy RaiserAneschka James Emma Linda Fleming

AUTISM SUPPORT DOG CLASSESMarch 2016, Johannesburg – Instructor: Leon Bunguza

16

Graduate Autism Support Dog Puppy RaiserKobus Cronje Khloe Megan Jones

Storyline – Heinrich and VikingHeinrich WilliamsGraduation day!

When our names (mine and Viking’s) were called out to go on stage, all of the students and the rest of the crowd got to their feet and gave us a standing ovation.

I never expected it and it was a very emotional experience for me. The Dean capped Viking as well. The crowd went mad. Viking was the main attraction, and he handled all the attention so well. Everybody wanted their photo taken with him. We felt like true celebrities. Within an hour the internet was buzzing with video clips of the day’s events. One of the clips has been viewed over 64,000 times already.

Now, wherever we go on campus and even in town, people stop us to ask if this is ‘the graduate’, meaning Viking. I am tremendously proud of him and he is a true blessing to have in my life.

If you would like to view the video, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJlppZReDhc

Heinrich and Viking’s graduation gowns were sponsored by Birch Outfitters.

Johannesburg events – The Gift of Independence Wine & Dine PartyAnnual Guide-Dogs Ball getting a makeover!

Our Annual Guide-Dogs Ball has been a fixture on many of our supporters’ and sponsors’ event calendars since 2001, when the event was inaugurated at the opening celebration of Kyalami Castle. The Ball moved to Montecasino in 2007, after a change of ownership at Kyalami Castle, and continued to thrive.

Time for changeAs the old adage goes, “All good things must come to an end.” After almost 15 years, our Annual Guide-Dogs Ball will be receiving a major makeover. This year, we would like to introduce our Gift of Independence Wine & Dine Party. We have partnered with Hot 91.9FM and will be bringing you an evening of exciting live music acts, giveaways as well as gourmet food and wine, all geared toward having fun while raising funds for our work helping people who are visually or physically impaired.

As in the past, each guest will receive a gift bag filled with luxurious goodies – including something special from our sponsor, Estée Lauder Companies – to take home with them at the end of the evening. We will also be holding an auction with wonderful getaways and items on offer.

The Gift of Independence Party will be held on Saturday, 10 September 2016 at the Montecasino Ballroom. Tickets cost R1,000 per person or R10,000 per table of 10. Book early, as capacity is limited, and join us for a party that promises to be a truly fun night out. To book, please contact Laura at LauraK@guidedog.org.za or call 011 705 3512.

Nursery news – What’s been happening in Puppy Block17

Monica SteenNew puppies at GDA

I can’t believe that we’ve already come full circle on the alphabet! We started with our first artificial insemination (AI) litter in June 2014 – our ‘A’ litter – and in December 2015, here we are again with our ‘A’ litter pups.

‘A’ litterOur ‘A’ litter was born on 9 December 2015 to mom London and dad Dell. There were a total of five Labrador puppies in this litter, all of them black with one male and four females.

These are the puppies and their respective Puppy Raisers:Archie – Colleen SprongAllegra – Masselli familyAva – Rebecca Hoffman Astra – Glynis Botes Arial – Catherine Gibson

‘B’ litterNext came the ‘B’ litter, born on 3 April 2016. These Labrador/Golden Retriever pups were born to first-time mom Cassidy and dad Phoenix. This litter produced a total of seven black and yellow pups, with six females and one male.

These are the puppies and their respective Puppy Raisers:Bethany – Elaine Mooi and family Bakara – Lynn TillemannBeatrix – Lee Praschma and Cheyenne Smith Bonnie – Ilse Prinsloo and family Bronte – Heidi Bergesen and family Bree – Elizabeth Nash Billy – Joanne Jacobs

‘C’ litterShortly thereafter came the ‘C’ litter, consisting of seven Golden Retrievers, and born on 6 April 2016 to mom Fiona and dad Amador. This is her third litter for GDA. There are two females and five males.

These are the puppies and their respective Puppy Raisers:Clover – Rene ClulowDaisy – Louis HamiltonColby – Tracy LoosChino – Moira SmithConnor – Trina and Ian Mckinley Cooper – Wendy Case Cosmo – Jhanet van der Merwe

‘D’ litter

18

The ‘D’ litter was born on 19 April to first-time mom Kendall and dad Curt. They had a good size litter of 10 pups. It is a mix of yellow and black, with three males and seven females.

These are the puppies and their respective Puppy Raisers:Dory – Bianca Tune and Craig WhiteDemi – Mari Bezuidenhout Dandy – Joanna and Lance KiggellDerryn – Caitlyn du Preez Dale – Bernadette and Paul ForsytheDidi – Sizie ModiseDazzle – Audine and Chris Brooks Dawson – Glenda Dicks Duffy – Lorna and Zane ZurlendenDyson – Dorette and Dirk Visser

‘E’ litterNext is the ‘E’ litter, born to parents Tanika and Jolt on 17 May 2016. The litter consists of a total of 11 pups, all of them yellow.

These are the puppies and their respective Puppy Raisers:Enya – Ildiko RichardsonEila – Saskia CluettEuro – Russ SmithEnid – Eleanor BurtonEmmett – Eugenie JacobsonEnzo – Louis EksteenElvis – Bronwyn FellEvie – Vee Pinker Emily – Sune SteenkampElfie – Claire Mclean-olverEllis – Candice Southey

Litters still waiting for a name…We’ve had a slew of new litters in short succession whose pups will be named after they are placed with their respective Puppy Raisers.

‘F’ litterThe ‘F’ litter was born on 21 June 2016 to first-time mom Ivy. The two yellow boys are fathered by stud Joplin.

‘G’ litterThis litter was born to parents Erin and Laughlin on 2 July 2016. There are two yellow girls and three yellow males.

‘H’ litterThis litter is also fathered by stud Joplin. Mom Widgeon gave birth to four males – three black and one yellow on 30 June 2016.

19

We look forward to updating you on the progress of these litters in our next issue

Puppy Raising – Do you want to become a Puppy Raiser?You can make a difference!

We are currently in need of volunteers who can take on the role of raising a puppy for us in Gauteng. A pup raised with love in a family environment has the best chance of becoming a working dog and enhancing the life of a person who is differently-abled.

What does a Puppy Raiser do?A Puppy Raiser takes on a pup at seven weeks of age, and raise him according to a structured and supervised programme, until he is around 12 months of age and ready to come back to the training centre for his advanced training. Puppy Raisers need to live in Johannesburg or Pretoria, as they need to be within easy travelling distance of the training centre.

They need to be at home during the day or work no more than a few hours a day, as our puppies need daily exposure to the outside world and must attend regular training sessions during working hours. Initially, the Puppy Raiser needs to travel to the training centre once a week for a puppy class (13-week course).

Thereafter, they would meet with one of our Puppy Raising Supervisors once or twice a month in different locations, for individual or small group training sessions.

SocialisationThe pups need to be exposed to as many different environments, people, animals, situations and experiences as possible. They need to get used to people of different ages and races, especially pre-school children. Pups need to be taught how to work on lead without being distracted by the sights, sounds and smells around them. They need to learn how to behave appropriately in a car and in a home, which means that they need regular opportunities to travel in your car, and they need to sleep inside at night and have access to the home during the day when someone is at home.

Puppy Raisers can be individuals over the age of 18, living alone or in a family, with or without children, and with or without pets of their own. They would, however, need to have access to transport.

While with the Puppy Raiser, GDA covers the cost of the food and veterinary care, as well as boarding when Puppy Raisers are away. The Puppy Raiser is responsible for their transport costs, and for the cost of anything that it damaged while in the Puppy Raiser’s care.

If it goes on to qualify as a working Guide, Service or Autism Support Dog, the Puppy Raiser is given the opportunity to meet the new owner. If the pup doesn’t qualify as a working dog, the Puppy Raiser has the opportunity to keep it.

If you have any questions regarding the Puppy Raising Scheme or would like to apply, please contact one of our Puppy Raising Supervisors: call Carina or Monica on 011 705 3512, or email LeighD@guidedog.org.za

Remembering Friends20

People and pets who have passed away

We remember with fondness our beloved friends who have passed on …

Friends who are no longer with usAnnetjie Nortje Lynn Huddy

Our thoughts are with staff members (Susan, Pieter, Hennie, Monica, Percy and Tukelo) who all lost a loved one.

In loving remembrance of Guide Dogs who have worked faithfully Tux – Guide Dog of June BakerNasser – Guide Dog of Jacob KrugerEmber – Guide Dog puppy. We are saddened by your unexpected passing.

We will miss Ruby, who passed away in April 2016. Ruby was an office dog who loved to come to work with a colourful ribbon on her collar.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” – Anonymous

Meet the team – Sanette HarmseGood with numbers and she loves dogs!

Sanette Harmse answered some questions so that you can get to know her better.

How long have you been working for S A Guide-Dogs Association (GDA)?Four years.

What do you do at GDA?Finance. I check that the income received by GDA is allocated to the correct donors and campaigns.

How did you get involved with S A Guide-Dogs?I always bought the Christmas promo from S A Guide-Dogs. A friend who worked with me was a Puppy Raiser and she told me that there was a vacancy in the finance department.

What’s your favourite part of your job?When the dogs or puppies in training come and spend some time in the office.

What is your least favourite?Financial year-end.

What would you say is the biggest challenge facing visually and physically impaired people in South Africa?Access to shopping centres and restaurants. Some people deny working dogs and their owners access.If you could implement a new law to help the differently-abled community, what would it be?Legislation should be implemented to allow ALL working dogs access to public places.

21

Do you have any pets?Yes, four – all of them were given to me: Roxy, the oldest, is 13 years old and a mix between a Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier; Pucca, who is Roxy’s daughter; Miskha, the biggest but youngest, is five years old and is a Pit Bull. Then I have my bird, Kokie, who is a 13-year-old green ringneck.

If you could go back in time, what year would you travel to and why?Mediaeval – I love the dresses.

Tea or coffee?Strong coffee.

Which song is guaranteed to put you in a great mood for the rest of the day? Ware vriende by Juanita du Plessis.

What is your favourite food?Lekker braaivleis.

What is your biggest pet peeve?Taxi drivers.

What kind of music do you listen to?Any song that I can sing along to.

Do you have any hidden talents? Does reading your kids’ minds count?

If you could have a superpower, which would you choose?Supergirl’s – I have no strength.

Do you have a role model? If so, who is it?My dad.

What makes you smile?Seeing old people who are still in love.

Sanette dedicates this article to Ruby. Ruby was the best dressed member of the ‘A’ team.“Ruby, you have left my life, but you will never leave my heart.”

“People leave imprints on our lives, shaping who we become in much the same way that a symbol is pressed into the page of a book to tell you who it comes from. Dogs, however, leave paw prints on our lives and souls, which are as unique as fingerprints in every way.” Ashly Lorenzana

Info – Health and safety22

Making our premises safer

We recently put down non-slip grips outside our reception area and added rubberised paint in the Kennels.

The Grip Kit is specifically designed to prevent accidents as a result of slippery surfaces, specifically stairs and problematic ramps. It provides a non-slip finish for areas where slippery surfaces are a problem in the wet as well as the dry. The Grip Kit system can be used for areas where pedestrian and vehicular safety is paramount, together with the need to visually indicate a hazard area or simply to provide a visually appealing finish.We hope to make our premises more secure for our staff, visitors and clients.

Thank you to Slip No More for their generous discount.

Storyline – Diane Marks and MorrisHow Guide Dogs have changed Diane’s life

I lost my sight 19 years ago due to bacterial meningitis. I was left totally blind at the age of 24. This took place while I was living in Durban, South Africa. I spent the first three years getting basic rehabilitation at the Natal Society for the Blind in Durban and at Optima College in Pretoria. I had applied for a Guide Dog from S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind, but by the time I was contacted for the assessment I was already planning to relocate to the United Kingdom. This forced me to put having a Guide Dog out of my mind for a while.

A new lifeI emigrated to the United Kingdom with my mom, and she got me settled into the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford, Herefordshire, where I studied Remedial Therapy and also improved on my rehabilitation skills, such as Orientation and Mobility with my white cane. While at this institution, I came into contact with many Guide Dogs and was so impressed at how amazingly well suited they were to their owners. It took a further eight and a half years for me to finally be settled enough to apply for a Guide Dog of my own. I decided that I had to go to university and work for a while before I felt stable enough to take on the responsibility of having a dog.

Along came ThomasOn 11 August 2008, a beautiful Labrador named Thomas came into my life and changed my world. He is an awesome boy and is now retired after having given me the most incredible seven years of hard work and loyalty.

With my gorgeous Thomas at my side, I took on the world of inaccessibility and inequality for all disabled people across the United Kingdom. He gave me the confidence to get out there and make a change for the better. I was living in Brighton at the time, and we became a very well-known pair around the city and in London at the Royal National Institute for the Blind where I was a Volunteer Campaigns Co-ordinator for the South Coast of England. I also undertook extra volunteering for a local disability organisation in Brighton called Possibility People, and became a vociferous campaigner for the rights of all disabled people by becoming a speaker, Guide Dogs campaigner, Branch Organiser for the local fundraising branch, along with being an Independent Access Consultant for the Royal Pavilion and Museums Access Advisory Group.

Thomas and I also helped carry the Paralympic torch into Lord’s Cricket Ground in 2012, as at the time I played blind cricket for the first all-blind ladies’ cricket team. This was all done because of having my fabulous boy at

23

my side. He gave me the independence and freedom to live my life the way I wanted and prove to the rest of the world that life doesn’t end when you lose your sight.

A few months ago, I decided to move to Northern Ireland. Having flown back and forth to Belfast, many times, I got a very good impression of how amazing the Northern Irish people are and decided to take on the daunting task of moving. This couldn’t have been done without my fabulous mom, friends and others over here in Northern Ireland.

Meeting MorrisThe saddest part of the move was that Thomas retired three months later. I had already resigned myself to having to use my cane for a good while, but to my great surprise, within days of my Thomas retiring, I was matched with a fabulous big boy called Morris. Morris is a Golden Retriever/Labrador cross. He is two and a half years old and an absolutely lovable hooligan. Morris’ presence has made it easier to accept the retirement of Thomas. Thomas is now living it up in the Irish countryside with another retired Guide Dog.

I hope my story will inspire other people who are visually or physically impaired to volunteer, campaign or do public speaking, or perhaps even just get their Orientation and Mobility skills up to scratch, so that they can get out there and live their lives to the fullest.

Thank you to all the different Guide Dog organisations in the United Kingdom and abroad. Their volunteers, staff and the clients are all amazing people and incredibly supportive and passionate about making life more accessible and free for people who are visually impaired.

FAQs – How to interact with a Guide Dog ownerJanie Fourie

Things to keep in mind when interacting with people who are visually impaired and their dogs

Often people say they would like to communicate with blind people, but they do not know how. Animal lovers are attracted to a working Guide Dog and spontaneously talk to the dog. Some simply touch the dog, without asking permission from the owner. The dog is distracted, therefore both the dog’s and the owner’s lives could be in danger.

What to keep in mind

1. Dogs and people are individualsDogs are individuals, in the same way that people are. Some are docile and gentle, or playful and fun-loving, while others are stubborn, but clever. Some dogs are more focused on their work than others are. Some are more easily distracted and would do anything for attention. Even dogs of the same breed can differ in size, colour, temperament and the health conditions from which they are prone to suffer. Some are allergic to different types of food.

All of them are precious.

The same applies to people who are visually impaired. Like sighted people, those with visual impairments also differ in personality and physical appearance. Some are shy, while others communicate spontaneously. Some are nervous, while others are more confident. Some appear to be aggressive, while others are docile. Some

24

are still in the process of dealing with their circumstances, while others have accepted their impairments. Some people have no sight at all, while others can still see something, even if it is only light and dark. Some are tall, while others are short.

So, keep in mind that if you have spoken to one person who is visually impaired, the next one you meet could be totally different.

Like sighted people, visually impaired people also want to be deemed worthy. So if you encounter people who are visually impaired with a sighted companion, do not talk to the sighted person about the person who is visually impaired. For example, if you want to offer them a drink, do not ask the sighted companion what they want to have. Ask the person who is who is visually impaired directly; they can speak for themselves. Do not use patronising language or shout at the visually impaired when you address them.

2. People who are visually impaired and their Guide Dog form a teamIf one team member is distracted, the team cannot function effectively. However, it is possible to communicate without distracting them. When you see people who are visually impaired walking with a Guide Dog in harness along the street, please do not distract the dog by calling him, let alone touching him. When they stop at a safe place, you could speak to the person and ask if you could greet the dog. If you think they could have a problem with a large obstacle or vehicle near them, you could offer assistance by explaining to the person what it is you are worried about. If they accept your assistance, let them hold your left elbow with their right hand, because the dog is on their left side.

How would you assist people who are visually impaired and their Guide Dog to find a specific destination? Never grab hold of the dog’s leash or harness! You could either offer your left elbow, while walking on the person’s right side, and walk with them to the destination, or you could walk in front while the person and the Guide Dog follow you. Talk to the person so that they can hear you walking in front. Tell them when to turn left or right. When you arrive at the destination, open the door and tell the team they have arrived. Step out of the way and tell them to go through the door. The dog will do the guiding.

3. There is a strong relationship between the Guide Dog and his ownerSome dogs need stronger discipline than others. When the dog is doing his work well, the owner praises him verbally and/or by patting him. Many dogs remain alert when their owner chats to them along the way.

However, when the dog is distracted, he has to be disciplined by means of talking in a low tone, saying “no!” followed by the name of the dog. A small handle correction is also sometimes necessary, depending on the degree of distraction. To an onlooker, this could seem cruel, but the dog understands what is meant by the action. However, if you are worried about the manner of discipline, do contact S A Guide-Dogs Association and explain what you saw and where it took place. Please contact 011 705 3512 for queries.

4. Labradors love foodPlease do not feed Guide Dogs. Their owners feed them in accordance with instructions from their veterinarian. It is really disrespectful to feed the dog against the will of the owner. The dog could get sick and this will cause problems for the team. Remember, there are probably certain foodstuffs you would not like your child to eat. You would be very angry if someone fed your child without your permission. The same applies to a person who is visually impaired and their Guide Dog.

25

Guide Dog owners are just normal dog lovers who have a problem with their vision. Each person is unique and each dog is special.

Health – Genetic Retinal vision loss – the factsClaudette Medefindt, Head of Science, Retina South Africa

Know your risk of vision loss

Genetic forms of retinal vision loss affect thousands of South Africans. This is what you need to know about this condition.

Retinal degenerations [RD] may be inherited in three different ways:

• The first is recessive inheritance, where both parents are unaffected carriers of a single copy of a gene mutation. There is a 25% chance, on each pregnancy, that the child will inherit a genetic mutation from both parents and have the condition. This is the most common form of inheritance and occurs most frequently in families with no previous history of vision loss.

• In dominant inheritance, the affected parent is also the carrier and the chance on each pregnancy of a child inheriting the gene mutation is 50%. Dominant RD is less common, but there is usually a strong family history affecting many generations.

• In X-linked RD, unaffected mothers carry the gene mutation on their X chromosome. Their sons have a 50% chance of inheriting the mutation and may be severely affected. Their daughters have a 50% chance of inheriting the carrier gene. Daughters of fathers with an X-linked condition are obligatory carriers.

Macular degenerationThe most common form of RD is age-related macular degeneration. The macular is the area of the retina that allows you to focus on detail (for example reading and sewing). If this area deteriorates, you will have difficulty with detailed focusing. Juvenile macular dystrophies, which occur in young people, are less common, but are found in all racial groups.

Other major forms of RD are retinitis pigmentosa [RP] and associated conditions. These usually start in the early or late teens, but late-onset forms also occur. The early symptoms are night blindness and poor contrast vision. Slow light-to-dark adaptation times are particularly difficult for children in the classroom. Loss of peripheral vision follows, resulting in tunnel vision and often functional blindness. There are over 60 different gene mutations already known to cause RP.

Local and international researchers have made great strides in understanding these conditions and in identifying the gene mutations that cause retinal vision loss. Retina South Africa has partnered with the University of Cape Town to facilitate genetic testing for their members to ensure that every family has a genetic diagnosis. This is critical for disease management, identification of at-risk family members and spousal testing for informed family planning.

The most compelling reason to have a genetic test is to ensure that patients are eligible for upcoming clinical trials that Retina South Africa is negotiating to bring to South Africa.

26

Retina South Africa offers free counselling, education, information and referral to service providers such as S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind. For more information or to donate to RD research in South Africa, contact Retina South Africa on helpline 0860 595 959, email national@retinasa.org.za or visit the website www.retinasa.org.za

Volunteer – Introducing Lorna SternGail Glover

An animal lover passionate about helping others

Lorna was born into a family of dog lovers 60 years ago. She was educated in Johannesburg and Switzerland and worked for many years as an office administrator. After surviving cancer and going through a difficult divorce, Lorna realised that life was short. She decided that the time had come for her to find ways in which she could help other people.

Animal loverIn 2000, Lorna began volunteer work at South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind (GDA). Lorna has seen many changes at GDA over the years. She has fond memories of working with Ken Lord at the Rand Show and selling Christmas cards at Sandton City’s Charity Kiosk.

Lorna’s life would not be complete without animals. She owns two brown Dachshunds, Emma and Monet (named after Lorna’s favourite artist Claude Monet). Lorna enjoys the fact that her Dachshunds are feisty, fearless characters with a typical Terrier personality.

Lorna sponsors a Lipizzaner broodmare, Ercz, at the Lipizzaner breeding farm near Hartbeespoort. Ercz is currently expecting a foal. If she has a colt, he will hopefully perform with South Africa’s famous Lipizzaner stallions. If she has a filly, she will become a broodmare. Lipizzaners are the oldest breed of horse – bred with human intervention, Lipizzaner ancestors can be traced back to Julius Caesar’s time.

Citizen of the worldLorna is well-travelled and loves music. Her favourite places to visit are countries that celebrate history, art and culture. Italy and France are her favourite travel destinations. Lorna can recommend a visit to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, Italy. Even if you are not a motorsport fan, you will be amazed by the gallery full of polished cars dating back to early motor racing history. Lorna also enjoys visiting her three nieces and her grandnephew in Toronto, Canada.

Thank you, Lorna, for being a loyal and dedicated Vollie. We appreciate your support and the donations that we have received whenever you have downsized homes or upgraded your computer equipment.

New ideas – Fresh faces on the GDA team

Passionate about people and dogs – meet the new staff members at GDA.27

Carina KurpershoekLearner Puppy Raising SupervisorAlthough I started my career in the nature sciences as a conservation scientist, I slowly but surely developed my skills in dog training and companion animal behaviour through my studies. I presented dog training classes part-time. After qualifying as a Companion Animal Behaviourist, GDA crossed my path. GDA gives me the opportunity to use and develop my skills in dog training and companion animal behaviour. Furthermore, I can work directly with dogs every day, and be part of a great team of people working towards a very worthy cause.

Michelle HumaSenior Trainer at College of Orientation & MobilityWorking at GDA’s College of Orientation & Mobility (COM) provides me with an opportunity to do what I am passionate about, which is to contribute to the training of future O&M practitioners, to provide O&M training to visually impaired people, and to educate the community about visual impairment in general.

Kabelo MolaleLearner Service Dog Mobility InstructorMy love for dogs began as a child and it was always a dream of mine to work with dogs. I decided to join the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) once I heard that they work with dogs. I worked and trained different breeds (German Shepherds, Belgian Shepherds, Rottweilers, Boerboels, Labradors, Beagles and Pointers). I have worked with different training disciplines, such as search and rescue, patrols, attack, guarding, detection and tracking. While this was a great experience, I felt that I needed to do something more meaningful, which is when I decided to join S A Guide-Dogs. I am loving it here – it’s the best decision I have made.

Alida PansegrouwLearner Puppy Raising SupervisorA love for dogs has always been part of me. In my final year of Fine and Applied Art (my major was Glass) I made three-dimensional dog artworks as part of an awareness-raising campaign for the SPCA. I began to focus on starting a dog-oriented career. At the time, I was pet sitting and advising pet owners on how they could improve their relationship with their pets. I find myself very lucky to have been offered the opportunity to come to S A Guide-Dogs to help produce more working dogs for people who are visually or physically impaired. I am honoured and proud to be a part of this family.

Anny KhumaloKennel and Puppy Block AssistantIf ever there is anyone who can love you fully, it’s a dog.If ever there is anyone who cannot backchat you, it’s a dog.If ever there is anyone who can change your life, it’s a dog.When it comes to trust, a dog trusts more.I am very much looking forward to being with GDA’s dogs and developing myself further in order to know them better.

Caela DriverLearner Guide Dog Mobility Instructor

28

I have been involved with S A Guide-Dogs Association (GDA) for as long as I can remember, as my father, Malcolm Driver, was the previous Executive Director of the Association. This is one of the main reasons why I love this organisation. After school, I worked at a centre for mentally challenged adults, which is where I found my passion for helping people. Belonging to GDA is a dream come true. I love working with people and I love spending as much of my time as possible with dogs.

29