A Bald Hills couple has been recognised for 25 years of volunteering with Guide Dogs Queensland, dedicating their time to raising future Guide Dogs.
Barry and Lis Foat were honoured at a Volunteer Recognition Morning Tea last month, alongside other volunteers who had reached milestones for their contributions to the organisation.
Lis said their journey began after the loss of their own pet dog, when they decided to put their love for animals toward a meaningful cause. She said they volunteered with Guide Dogs Queensland and became puppy raisers.
“In the beginning, we had several (dogs) at a time, but in the last few years, we are only taking one at a time,” she said.
As the Foats are now both in their mid-70s, Lis said they no longer take on puppies but still contribute through other programs. The couple are currently involved in supporting dogs with behavioural issues.
Beyond Puppy Raising: A Legacy of Care and Commitment
Lis said they had cared for about 135 dogs over the 25 years.
“I keep a chart on all of them…and send reports to Guide Dogs Queensland,” she said. “I get a lot of dogs now that have had surgery, so we look after them in their recuperation.”
Lis has also volunteered her time working at the centre, selling merchandise in shopping centres, assisting with fundraising appeals and packing merchandise in the warehouse.
Barry said the experience had been rewarding, knowing the dogs they raised would go on to play an important role in someone’s life.
“I just find that I’m amazed at what the dogs can do,” he said. “I think we have been an instrumental arm in getting that dog out into the workplace to help another vision-impaired person.
“It’s nice to be recognised, and Guide Dogs Queensland, on a couple of occasions now, have recognised Lis and I with pins and badges. But you don’t do it for that…I’m doing it because we enjoy doing it.”
“We just love dogs,” Lis said. “Dogs make you live longer, and I’m going to be living for a very long time.”
Guide Dogs Queensland CEO Jock Beveridge said reaching 25 years of volunteering was an extraordinary milestone.
“Through their commitment to puppy raising, Barry and Lis have helped shape the journey of many Guide Dogs in training,” he said. “Their patience, care and passion have made a lasting impact not only on the dogs they’ve raised, but on the people who will one day rely on those dogs for independence.”
Bracken Ridge Ward Councillor Sandy Landers said Barry and Lis show just how powerful volunteering can be.
“Their work with Guide Dogs Queensland highlights the real difference puppy raisers make, and hopefully their story will inspire others in our community to consider becoming a puppy raiser,” Cr Landers said.
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