A ‘pawsome’ cause to support

16 Jul 2024

There are currently 180,000 New Zealanders who are blind, deafblind or have low vision. It’s estimated this number will increase to 225,000 by 2028. This anticipated increased demand will extend the waiting time unless more dogs can be successfully trained as guide dogs. 

But did you know it takes nearly two years and more than $175,000 to raise, train and keep a guide dog in service?  Blind Low Vision NZ receive no government funding for this. 

To help raise these much-needed funds, Blind Low Vision NZ bring you Paws for Purpose Christchurch. You may be familiar with their life-sized dog coin collection boxes (also known as Trudy Dogs). As a result of our increasingly cashless society, the Trudy Dogs are now, sadly obsolete. 

So, Blind Low Vision NZ tasked some of Ōtautahi Christchurch’s most talented artists with turning these iconic pieces of Kiwiana into one-of-a-kind works of art with Resene paints. And they did not disappoint! These Paws for Purpose Art Dogs are now going on display at venues around Christchurch. Now, each dog just needs a permanent home! 

What can you do? 

Browse the collection of highly collectible works of dog art, select your favourite(s), make a bid (or two), and one of these Paws for Purpose pups could be beautifying your home or office!  

View the auction here! 

These are just four of the works that are to be auctioned. (Clockwise from top left) ‘Diesel’ by Ellie Compton, ‘Tru Treasure’ by Katrina Perano, ‘Ta’iala’ by Silivelio Fasi and ‘Sol Shines on Luna Shadows’ by Magdelane Clare. All of the dogs are painted in a variety of Resene paints by the artists.  

You’ll be making a huge difference in the lives of blind, deafblind, and low vision Kiwis. 

Five of these beauties have also been selected to be part of Blind Low Vision NZ’s Pedigree Pups Collection and will go on the block at their live auction. This is taking place Wednesday 21st August and will be held at The Tannery. For only $10 you will receive a complimentary glass of bubbles enjoy some canapés and the fun of a live auction event. 

So what are you waiting for? Support this ‘pawsome’ cause today!   

Published: 16 Jul 2024