Guide Dog Programme:
Since 1976 Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind has provided a guide dog programme for people who have a vision impairment or total sight loss. A guide dog is specially trained to accompany and enable a vision impaired person to move about safely, independently and with confidence. The working relationship between a guide dog and its owner is unique and it offers both social and emotional benefits.
Benefits of a guide dog for a blind and vision impaired person are:
• Enhances work opportunities• Encourages an active social life
• Improves health and fitness
• Provides assistance in locating destinations
• Guides the owner around obstacles
• Offers great companionship
Our programme is designed with the needs of the individual at heart and we go to great lengths to match each client with a guide dog to suit them and their lifestyle. Clients attend our National Headquarters and Training Centre for a three-week residential course. The course provides practical training to reach a safe and efficient standard of mobility. It also includes the basics of dog handling, feeding, grooming and vet care, as well as the opportunity to share experiences and make new friends.
What is the next step?
Applicants are requested to provide medical details, which, together with a home-based assessment allow us to evaluate each individual’s suitability for training. Once accepted for training, applicants are matched with the best dog for their needs based on their physical characteristics, walking speed, lifestyle and home environment. You will receive personal assistance throughout the application process from a member of our Client Services Team.
Do you have questions?
Click this link to view the most common questions about getting a guide dog.
For more information contact us on 1850 506 300 or email info@guidedogs.ie
You can listen to a full interview telling the story of Patricia O' Halloran and her guide dog Pasha, here.
For more testimonials click here
We have the following posters for Guide Dog Owners to download, 1 is a Dont Feed poster and the other is a Dont Disturb poster, both can be helpful in educating the public.
