Why Singapore has only eight guide dogs

The number here may seem small, but there are reasons: They can cost $70,000 each, and need looking after. Yet, the freedom of mobility they give to the blind is priceless.

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The month of April is especially significant to eight blind individuals in Singapore because they are users of guide dogs.

Around the world, International Guide Dog Day is marked on the last Wednesday of April - this year, it is tomorrow - when the amazing partnership between dog guides and their blind handlers is celebrated.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 23, 2019, with the headline Why Singapore has only eight guide dogs. Subscribe