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Walkers support dog guide training at annual Fergus event

by Phil Gravelle

Updated June 13, 2019

Walkers support dog guide training at annual Fergus event — Hounded - Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott held consultations with canine constituents being walked by Carol Martin when he dropped by the annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides, organized by the Lions at the Centre Wellington Sportsplex park on June 9. Dogs of all shapes and sizes brought their people out for the event, which supports the training of dog guides for people with special needs. Photos by Phil Gravelle

FERGUS - The Fergus and Marsville Lions Clubs had a beautiful day and enthusiastic participants at their annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides on June 9.

It’s one of 300 such walks across Canada, with the Lions Foundation supporting the effort to provide the training and placement of dogs at no cost for people with disabilities.

Support team - People who provide foster homes for future dog guides are big supporters of the walk. From left are Susan Barth (with Tasha), Kristi Mercier (Ruby), Nancy Chiasson (Quiz and Vader), Joan Matheson (Whisp) and Mavis Bedford, whose newborn pup had to stay home. Submitted photo

“It’s really important work that you do,” said Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott, who dropped by along with MP Michael Chong.

“You make a difference in the lives of people.”

The local walk raised $19,000 last year, and organizers were hoping to top $20,000 in 2019.

Pups destined for a service career are cared for in foster homes until they are ready for training. Food and vet costs are covered.

“We provide the love,” said foster mom Nancy Chiasson.

Dogs help people with issues that include hearing, vision, seizures, mobility, diabetes and autism, and work with agencies that respond to traumatic situations.