Is a Guide Dog Right for Me?

| Is a Guide Dog Right for Me?

Let’s see if we can find a dog to fit your lifestyle!

Working with a guide dog is an experience like no other. The unique bond handlers form with their dogs represents an opportunity to increase independence and confidence through the advantages of teamwork. The following questions are designed to assist in determining if a guide dog is right for your lifestyle and everyday travel needs.

Travel Skills

Have you received formal Orientation and Mobility training?
Do you travel independently when commuting to work, school, and/or social outings, running errands, or utilizing public transportation?
Do you have consistent walking routes that you feel comfortable and confident navigating on your own?
Are you able to transfer your orientation and mobility skills to environments you are unfamiliar with?
Do you feel comfortable problem-solving when faced with a challenging situation?
Do you consider yourself to be active – walking or exercising daily?

Working with a Guide Dog

Can you provide for the physical and health needs of a guide dog (e.g., veterinary care, quality nutrition, consistent grooming, relieving opportunities, and exercise)?
Can you meet the emotional needs of a guide dog (e.g., verbal praise, physical affection, awareness of stress, and teamwork)?
Can you fulfill the financial needs of a guide dog (e.g., veterinary care expenses, dog food, treats, and toys)?
Have you discussed the possibility of caring for and working with a guide dog with family members, friends, and/or co-workers? Are they willing to abide by Guiding Eyes’ standards of care and training for the dog without interfering?
Are you prepared to take a dog out in all types of weather?
Are you comfortable with more interactions with the public, as they will naturally take notice of and have questions about a guide dog?
Knowing that Guiding Eyes is available to support you, are you prepared to advocate for your rights as a guide dog team if experiencing access discrimination?

Living with a Guide Dog

Do you live in a stable, clean, and pet safe environment?
Are your independent living skills (cooking, cleaning, organization, time management) sufficient for taking care of both yourself and a guide dog?
Our dogs show their love by leaving their hair behind; do you enjoy grooming and a little extra vacuuming?
Have you considered or discussed dog allergies with the individuals you live with, if any?
Do you have any pets, and if so, do they get along with other animals?
Would you enjoy spending quality time with a guide dog out of harness and building a bond?
Our dogs are experts in persuasion; are you prepared to resist feeding table scraps and other human snacks to support the dog’s nutritional health?

To download “Is a Guide Dog Right for Me?” as a printable document, click here.

Ready to apply?

If you’re ready to submit an application, please click here to visit the Apply for a Guide Dog page for the online application.

Contact us:

If you have questions about guide dog readiness or the application process, please email us at admissions@guidingeyes.org or call 888-987-2188 to speak with a member of our team.

“If I were a bird, it would be like my wings were suddenly unclipped. It’s freedom, independence, and being able to do things without worrying.”

Graduate Tiffani, (Partnered with 1st guide dog Maggie)

“In our first walk there was an overwhelming sensation of joy, freedom, and independence, all rolled into one. With every walk we take I feel happier and safer. ”

Graduate Avelash, (Partnered with 1st guide dog O’Neil)