Roy Keane launches Guide Dog Day taking place on May 26

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind's Ambassador Roy Keane has helped launch the charity's annual fundraising campaign, Guide Dog Day, which takes place on Friday, May 26.

The Manchester United and Ireland legend is promoting the fundraising collection day which will be followed by the charity's nationwide dog walks on Saturday and Sunday, May 27 and 28.

Tim O'Mahony, Chief Executive Officer of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, said, "Guide Dog Day in 2022 enabled us to successfully match 55 guide dog and assistance dog partnerships and place 9 community dogs in schools and facilities around the country.

"With the training of one guide dog costing approximately €53,000, we need immense support on Guide Dog Day this year to achieve our target of changing the lives of 85 families through the provision of our services."

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind said it breeding programme was continuing to grow, with three litters born so far this year.

It added that 105 puppies currently being raised were due to start formal training later in 2023 and during 2024. It's hoped that 33 pups currently undergoing formal training will be successfully matched in the coming months.

There are 39 families on the waiting list for the charity's assistance dog programme.

For details of Guide Dog Day collections and Dog Walks locations see: www.GuideDogs.ie