Volunteers from Leader Dogs for the Blind, a program that raises puppies to be seeing-eye dogs, will visit Paws Fur Fun Saturday, August 22, from noon to 5 p.m. in the Mackinaw Crossings mall in Mackinaw City.

Ann and Frank Davis will provide visitors with information on the program. Summer, the newest golden retriever puppy Mr. and Mrs. Davis are training, will be present, with another dog, Angel.

This is the third year Mr. And Mrs. Davis have visited Paws Fur Fun to educate people about the program. Pictures of leader dogs in various stages of their training will be on hand, and the couple will also talk about how visitors can volunteer for the program.

The couple has volunteered for 19 years, raising a new puppy each year. Obedience and socialization training are taught to the puppies during that time. The dogs are taken everywhere the couple goes, from restaurants to doctor's offices and churches. Exposing the puppies to public areas helps them become more accustomed to people and sounds. Raising a puppy for the program costs up to $1,500 a year, Mrs. Davis said.

Leader Dogs for the Blind is funded through donations. Leader dogs are provided to the blind and visually impaired free of charge along with the training required for the dog and its owner to become accustomed to each other.