Guide Dogs of the Desert Grand Opening in Palm Springs

On Wednesday I went to the opening of the Guide Dog Depot in downtown Palm Springs. The new space was opened to provide the Guide Dogs of the Desert an opportunity to interact with the general public, and provide a place for trainers to visit while working with guide dogs-in-training. The mission of Guide Dogs of the Desert is to "improve the lives of the blind by creating opportunities for life-changing independence, and by conducting community outreach and education programs." They provide assistance to the visually impaired, by providing trained dogs to people, particularly those who may not have the financial means to purchase a guide dog on their own. Local Palm Springs resident and pop superstar Barry Manilow attended the private reception and mingled with the guests. I had a chance to chat with Barry, who is practically my neighbor; he looked great in his black leather jacket and jeans. Actor and animal advocate Dick Van Patten was also at the reception. His dog food company Natural Balance pet foods is donating dog food and raising money for the Guide Dogs of the Desert. There were a few members of the press on hand, including CBS-TV who interviewed Mr Van Patten following the ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday morning.

above: Actor and animal advocate Dick Van Patten poses with one of the guide dogs. His pet food company Natural Balance raises money for a number of animal organizations across the country. Dick enjoys spending time in Palm Springs and is a proud supporter of the Guide Dogs of the Desert.

I thought this poster above was really cool, with all the photos of the guide dogs. If you want to help out the Guide Dogs of the Desert, click here to donate.
-Rick Rockhill