Guide Dogs for the Blind

Guide dogs are trained to lead blind people (or those who are visually impaired) around obstacles and protect them from traffic, other pedestrians, and stationary objects. These dogs can be trained to navigate around obstacles and through streets, but because they are partially color blind they cannot read street lights. The person being guided actually does the directing based upon skills he/she learns through mobility training. While the dog is the pilot, the blind person is the navigator. In most countries, guide dogs for the visually impaired are exempt from laws excluding pets from public places such as restaurants and public transportation such as buses, trains, taxis, and subways.

Following are the most popular breeds to be trained as seeing eye dogs :

Golden retrievers
German shepherds
Labrador retrievers

Regulations to Allow Guide Dogs

The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits any business or government agency from barring guide dogs entrance into their facilities. This act does not provide that religious organizations must allow guide dogs on their premises. While each state has its own laws regarding guide dogs, many individuals and business owners may not be aware of the laws in their state. If you are confronted because of your guide dog being in a public place, you need to be aware of the laws so you can defend yourself. Some people may not even believe that your dog is a service/assistance dog. Here are some suggestions to help make it clear to others that your guide dog is not just a pet:

Dress your dog in some type of vest or harness
Walk with confidence; do not enter a public place expecting to be thrown out
When told “No dogs allowed,” calmly explain that your dog is your assistance dog
Only two questions may be asked of you: “Are you disabled?” and “Is that an assistance/service dog?” Once you have informed the business that your dog is a service animal and that you are visually impaired or totally blind, you should be left alone
Carry the ADA and information about your state’s laws regarding guide dogs with you
Call the authorities if you are physically or verbally threatened in any way or if you are prohibited entrance into a facility covered by the ADA

Guide Dogs of America

Guide Dogs of America is an international organization dedicated to providing guide dogs and instruction in their use to blind and visually impaired individuals at no cost to them. GDA understands the complex interdependence between the blind person and his dog and are adept at pairing each dog with his “master” based on unique personality traits and lifestyle considerations. If you would like to learn more about how to benefit from this amazing organization, please click visit the website of Guide Dogs of America today to find out about their upcoming events, admissions criteria, puppy raising techniques, and training and breeding information.

To learn more about seeing eye dogs and other resources for the blind, please contact an experienced eye doctor in your area today.