From the beginning, guide dog "puppy raisers" Halina and Andrew Giesajtis from Wentworth Falls knew their golden labrador Jacie was meant for a higher purpose.
"She was never meant to be our 'keep dog'," Mrs Giesajtis said.
"I've always had an affinity for the blind and deaf and because I love dogs, it's something I can do."
One of a litter of eight, Jacie's been with the Giesajtis family since last July when she was just eight weeks old. Jacie will be leaving in the next couple of months to see if she can make the grade during the five months of intensive puppy training at guide dog headquarters in Glossodia. Only 50 per cent pass muster.
Guide Dogs Australia is urgently seeking carers in the Mountains to take on a puppy who will help a blind person become more independent.
"Puppy raisers need to have a fully-fenced yard, be away from home no more than four hours at a time, have access to a car and attend training days once a month in the local area," said Karen Hayter, Guide Dogs NSW puppy raising manager.
"It takes almost two years and costs more than $35,000 to raise a guide dog and puppy raisers play a critical part in developing a playful puppy into a responsible guide dog."
Guide Dogs provide food and vet care and are on hand to answer any questions and provide guidance, she said.
Mrs Giesajtis said her older dog Elkie has enjoyed Jacie's company - "Jacie woke her up" - and they have made great friends while at puppy training with other guide dog carers in the area.
"You have to work hard with your dog, not allow them to toilet on a walk or scavenge for food, you have to be diligent [but] I always had the mentality if this is going to help a blind person, well if I was in that situation, I would be grateful."
Many in the community would have seen Jacie on her regular city walks, sometimes practising going up stairs on Katoomba train station, occasionally visiting Coles, or visiting a cafe in Wentworth Falls.
Mrs Giesajtis said they were hopeful of attending Jacie's "graduation" in six months time, but if their puppy didn't make the grade she would love to have her back.
"Well, of course we adore her... [but] you accept it. I will miss her ... but you have to be prepared to sacrifice."
Every day in Australia, 28 people are diagnosed with vision loss that cannot be corrected, including nine who will become blind. Despite huge advances in technology for the blind, nothing has yet to match a guide dog's knack for anticipating its owner's needs.
Ms Hayter said puppy raising was a wonderful opportunity for those who did not want the lifetime commitment of having a dog of their own.
Guide Dogs is also looking for people to provide short-term care when puppy raisers go away for weekends or on holiday. The next intake for volunteers is in September. Details at: www.guidedogs.com.au.
