About Us

One community changing lives

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is Ireland’s national charity dedicated to enabling people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism to achieve improved mobility and independence. 

For over 40 years we have worked with our community of Breeders, Puppy Raisers, Home Socialisers, Temporary Boarders, Trainers, Staff, Volunteers and supporters to change as many lives as possible.

Did you know?

• We currently have nearly 400 Guide and Assistance Dogs Clients in Ireland

• All of our services are provided free of charge

• It costs over €5 million to run our organisation each year

• We receive over 85% of our income through voluntary donations and fundraising through our Branch network across the country

Our Core purpose

To enable people with sight loss and families of children with autism to lead better lives, become more independent and more mobile.

Our Mission

To provide the highest quality of services in partnership with our Clients while planning for the future and valuing Clients, Volunteers, and each other.

Our Goal is simple

We support people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism by providing life-changing services.

With your help, we create exceptional partnerships between people and their dogs. Our highly trained dogs empower people to move safely and confidently around their communities.

Our Vision

A future where persons who are blind, vision impaired and disabled achieve independence and dignity through our world-class dog and ancillary services.

Our Values and behaviours

We want people to live our values before, during and after your engagement with us.

• Respect: Treats Clients, Colleagues and Volunteers with equal respect. Is open-minded and tolerant of different views.

• Teamwork: Supports a team environment that promotes well-being and maximizes personal effectiveness. Communicates clearly and effectively with others. Strives to be supportive, consistent, and professional with Clients, Colleagues, and Volunteers.

• Optimism: Is solution-focused and looks to bring a positive attitude to challenges. Celebrates wins and encourages others to do the same. Does not fear failure – believes we can all learn lessons for the next time together.

• Conscientiousness: Takes pride in what is done and how it is done. Always presents a professional and capable manner in all tasks that are completed. Has a clarity of purpose, sets a good example for others. Is accountable for what is done and takes ownership for achievement.

• Integrity: Leads by example. Is fair and consistent when working with Clients, Colleagues and Volunteers. Takes ownership of achievements and responsibility for failure.

• Excellence: Strives to continuously improve own performance.

Having spoken to so many Guide and Assistance Dogs Owners over the years it is amazing to see what the dogs do – the impact they have on individuals and their families. These dogs are giving people back their lives. - Brand Ambassador, Roy Keane

Join us

If you’re interested in being part of a community which strives to enable others to have the opportunity to be involved in their community get in touch!

Find out more