Joan Smith and her guide dog Benson visit Narre Warren last week.MEMBERS of Berwick’s senior community enjoyed a visit from a two- and four-legged friend of Guide Dogs Victoria last week.
Guide Dogs Victoria public education coordinator Joan Smith and her companion Benson were at the Narre Warren Bowling Club to talk about the role Guide Dogs Victoria play in the community.
Ms Smith, who started to lose her vision at the age of 39, said her life turned full circle when she first starting using the aid of a guide dog.
“Through my guide dog, I regained my self-esteem, my confidence and my independence,” Ms Smith said.
The crowd listened intently as Ms Smith outlined the relationship she has with her dog and the special ability they have to communicate with each other.
Ms Smith describes her limited vision as like looking through a pin hole, but with the help of Benson she is able to do many things, including visiting her local shopping centre.
“Even if we were on the wrong level, he would manoeuvre through crowds, find the lift, get out at the right floor and happily walk into the shop wagging his tail,” she said.
