Sonia O'Sullivan backs IGDB

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is asking communities across the country to participate in its nationwide annual family dog walk - at 3pm on Sunday July 15.Supported by sporting legend Sonia O'Sullivan, the organisation hopes to raise €50,000 for those who are visually impaired and families of children with autism.Money will be raised through sponsorship, a recommended €5 entrance fee on the day and items for sale, including Drontal high visibility bands.The bands have been approved by the Road Safety Authority and can be used again and again. The campaign is being supported by Bayer, Maxi Zoo and Rotary Ireland.Sonia O'Sullivan says: "I am delighted to be associated with the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind Annual Family Dog Walk - it's so important for people to get out and exercise, and walking is a great way to spend some time with family and friends, I'm so happy to be associated with the IGDB, I think the work they do for the visually impaired and families of children with autism is vital and I'm happy to lend my support."So I'm asking you all to get out into your community and either organise or attend a walk and raise funds for this wonderful charity."To join a walk in your area visit www.guidedogs.ie, or you can organise a walk in your area.Simply register your event and IGDB will send you an organisers pack and add your walk to their website. Participants can also download a sponsorship card for the event online.Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is encouraging people to turn up on the day for the family dog walk.For more information on the family dog walk please see www.guidedogs.ie or call Marguerite Tierney, communications manager, on 021 487 8203.www.facebook.com/irishguidedogswww.twitter.com/irishguidedogs