How To If you are blind or visually impaired, you should get a service dog.
A guide dog is a great companion for someone who is blind or visually impaired.It takes a long time to get a service dog for a blind person.The process includes research, submission of an application, interview, home visit, and in-person training at a certified guide dog school.
Step 1: Master orientation and mobility skills.
Those applying to get a service or guide dog need to have mastered mobility and orientation skills.You will need to be able to travel independently with a cane, cross the street, walk safely in areas familiar to you, find destinations, and have the ability to problem solve if you become lost or confused.If you need help mastering orientation and mobility skills, contact an Orientation and Mobility Specialist.They can help you with these skills.
Step 2: There are different service dog breeds.
You can use the internet to research different breeds that are bred for blind and visually impaired people.Learning about the different breeds will help you find a school that works with them.Australian Shepherds and Border Collies are often trained as guide dogs.Golden Retrievers and Labradors are good options if you are looking for a family friendly breed.Standard Poodles and German Shepherds are large breeds that are trained as guide dogs.
Step 3: There are research guide dog programs.
In the United States, there are fifteen different guide dog schools that will pair you with a trained dog and oversee your initial training with the dog on their campuses.There are more than one school like this in the United States.The National Federation of the Blind has a guide dog resource list.There are guide dog schools in multiple regions on the list.
Step 4: Contact the schools that interest you.
You should reach out to a school that interests you once you complete your research on guide dog programs.Call the admissions office to inquire about the program and the dogs they train.What are the entrance requirements for your school?What is the cost of the program?How long is the training?I don't know if I will have to live on campus during the training period.What types of dogs do you work with?What is the process for matching people and dogs?
Step 5: You can submit your application.
You need to submit an application if you want to attend a guide dog school.You can either submit the application online or mail it to the school.You will be asked about your finances, health, travel practices, and orientation and mobility training.
Step 6: You have to complete a phone interview.
You will be contacted by the guide dog program after they receive your complete application.A representative from the school will ask about your lifestyle, health history, and finances during the interview.
Step 7: Wrap up with a visit to the house.
The school will decide if you are a good fit for their program after you complete the application and phone interview.They will conduct a home visit if they think you are.A school representative will assess your home, mobility skills, and ability to care for a service dog during the visit.
Step 8: Program fees should be submitted.
Guide dog schools require participants to pay fees if they want to get a service dog and attend on-campus training.Some schools are free.Other schools can cost a lot of money.Before you sign up for a program, make sure you talk to the school about the fees.
Step 9: You need to complete training with your service dog.
Once you are accepted to a program, you will need to complete on campus training for about two to three weeks.You will be matched with a dog during this time.The intensive training program will be completed by you and your dog.You will live on the campus during the training.
Step 10: Prepare the home for the dog.
A service dog will become part of your family.Before you leave for the training program, make sure your house is ready to welcome the dog.Purchase the dog a bed, food and water bowls, a leash, and a collar.You should put the dog's bed near the room where you sleep.
Step 11: Mobility tasks are performed with your dog every day.
Guide dogs are bred and trained to help people who are blind or visually impaired.They can lose these skills if they are not regularly practiced.Locating objects, Altering you to dangers, and moving vehicles are some of the tasks that can be done.
Step 12: Understand your dog's physical and emotional needs.
On a daily basis, your service dog will need physical and emotional care.Dedicated time will be needed for feeding, grooming, and exercising your dog.If you choose an active breed like a Border Collie or Australian Shepherd, you need to make sure the dog gets at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days.