Across the country Battery World has made a commitment to support and fundraise for Guide Dogs Australia with stores in Canning Vale and Armadale taking part in a national Name the Puppy competition.
Based in Maddington franchise owners Matt Fulford and Ken Preedy said for a two-dollar donation residents could put their suggested dog name on a label in the store which would then go into a national draw.
Mr Fulford said according to dog naming manuals anything with two syllables was best.
“At the end of the day whether you pick Rover or Ruby it’s a terrific opportunity to get behind a great cause,” he said.
“You never know your favourite name might be picked.”
Mr Fulford is the owner of two dogs called Olivia and Charli.
He said he loves puppies and was happy to support Guide Dogs Australia.
“They help change lives,” he said.
“It’s a great cause to support.”
One person in particular who has been helped by Guide Dogs Australia is 32-year-old Melbourne man Glen Bracegirdle who was born with a pigment disease albinism which has affected his sight.
Mr Bracegirdle credits his guide dog Bronny with saving his life countless times and allowing him to live a more independent life.
“She’s my best friend and I trust her more than I trust most people,” he said.
“She is my eyes and often my ears especially with electric cars that are a nightmare for blind people, not only can we not see them but we also can’t hear them, thankfully Bronny does.”
Mr Bracegirdle said Bronny was a great name for his dog and suited her nature.
“She can take me through an airport, even to the cheese section in the supermarket,” he said.
“I walk to work every day with her and it takes me 15 minutes.
“If I had to use a cane it would take me 45 minutes or I would have to rely on someone else to drive me.”
Guide Dogs Australia is the nation’s leading provider of orientation and mobility services and assists people who are blind or have a vision impairment gain the freedom and independence to move safely and confidently around their communities, and to fulfil their potential.
The dog naming competition closes on October 21.
For more information visit guidedogsaustralia.com.
