Guide dog Bill has been stealing the limelight at exclusive red-carpet events to raise awareness about the rising cost of dog ownership. The two-year-old golden retriever has been popping up in places where you’d least expect him to highlight the ‘unexpected bills’ and financial pressures that dog owners are facing amid the rising cost of living.
At the Pride of Britain awards, Bill walked the red carpet with his owner, Mohammed and Love Island star and Guide Dogs campaign star Faye Winter. The adorable guide dog also made his way onto the stage during rehearsals for The Devil Wears Prada, catching the attention of Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty star Vanessa Williams, who plays Miranda Priestly in the musical. And at the prestigious National Chef of the Year awards, Bill posed for photos, surprising winners as they accepted their awards.
Bill made his red-carpet debut to promote our Guide Dogs Puppy Appeal, launched last month, urging support due to increasing costs for essentials such as food, insurance, and veterinary care. Our survey of 2,000 dog owners revealed that 69% are worried about rising pet costs, and 55% have been hit with an unexpected bill for their dog. To afford these costs, some owners have cut back on eating out and entertainment, with others even taking out loans or crowdfunding to cover unexpected bills.
Despite these sacrifices, 68% of respondents expressed understanding of the need for vets and other providers to increase fees, and 83% sympathised with charities like Guide Dogs that are facing the same rising expenses.
Pam White, National Fundraising Campaigns Manager, said: “We know all too well the pressures people are facing to provide the best care for their dogs. We shoulder all the major costs for our guide dogs, including food and vet bills as we’re committed to ensuring a person’s financial situation is never a barrier to having a guide dog, which is why we’re seeking support for our Guide Dogs Puppy Appeal.”
Learn more and support the Guide Dogs Puppy Appeal today to help people living with sight loss.
And as for Bill? He’s earned a rest but keep an eye out – he may pop up when you least expect him!
