MARILYN Luck keeps her friends close, but man's best friend even closer.
Impy, a seven-year-old golden labrador, has been by her side day and night since Guide Dogs Victoria brought the pair together five years ago.
The Maidstone resident lost her vision 10 years ago, in her mid-40s. "To lose your sight so late in life is horrendous. You have to deal with so many issues," she said.
Mrs Luck used a cane for the first few years before getting Impy.
"It makes so much difference to your life having a guide dog. It lets you do whatever you want to do."
Now the best mates are always out and about, whether travelling to Queensland, playing cricket or ten-pin bowling.
"We can go anywhere and everywhere. I now have the confidence in myself because I have confidence in my dog.
"Other than making me a cup of coffee she does everything. She senses everything, she knows when I am not feeling 100per cent."
The duo are celebrating International Guide Dog Day today.