Back row: David Rowcroft, Mike Shuttleworth, Alba Vanderburg, Anna Shuttleworth and Wendy Rowcroft. In foreground: Nicole Tarpey with son Declan and puppy Dash.
Camera IconBack row: David Rowcroft, Mike Shuttleworth, Alba Vanderburg, Anna Shuttleworth and Wendy Rowcroft. In foreground: Nicole Tarpey with son Declan and puppy Dash. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Dash a life-changing gift

Laura PondWanneroo Times

The residents of Prairie Dunes Place hold a popular Christmas lights display every year, raising money for Guide Dogs WA.

Donations from last year's display garnered nearly $10,000, allowing them to sponsor their seventh guide dog puppy, Dash.

Since 1999, they have raised almost $160,000 for the organisation.

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"The residents of Prairie Dunes Place are our longest-standing guide dog sponsors to date," Guide Dogs WA executive Tony Hagan said.

"They're fantastic advocates for Guide Dogs WA and the ongoing support we receive from the community through the Christmas lights display is outstanding.

"It may seem like small change to some, but the amount raised since 1999 has allowed several people living with vision impairment to be offered the life-changing gift of independence through a guide dog."

Though Dash lives with a "puppy raiser", the sponsors get updates on his progress, are allowed regular visits and will be invited to his graduation.

Resident Mike Shuttleworth has heard first-hand how their contributions help others.

While attending the graduation of one of their sponsored guide dogs several years ago, the recipient told him: "Yesterday, I had a white stick. Today, I have a dog which will be my companion for many years to come."

Mr Shuttleworth said: "It is very satisfying to know that we are now sponsoring our seventh dog, which is an unbelievable achievement."