Guiding Eyes for the Blind

Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a non-profit organization dedicated to the training and provision of guide dogs to individuals with visual impairments to enhance their independence and mobility. Established in 1954, the organization is headquartered in Yorktown Heights, New York, and is one of the foremost institutions in the United States committed to the field of guide dog training and placement.

History

Guiding Eyes for the Blind was founded with the mission to provide superior guide dogs to people with vision loss, facilitating their movement and independence. Over the years, the organization has expanded its programs to include dogs trained for children with autism, as well as a breeding program to produce dogs suited for the complex demands of guide work.

Training Programs

The training programs at Guiding Eyes for the Blind are comprehensive, starting from the selection of suitable puppies through to the final matching of a guide dog with its handler. The process includes:

• Puppy Raising: Volunteers, known as puppy raisers, foster the puppies, providing them with a loving home and introducing them to a variety of social and environmental situations.
• Formal Training: At around 16 months, the dogs enter formal training where professional trainers teach them advanced skills necessary for guide work.
• Matching Process: Dogs that successfully complete the training are matched with an individual based on lifestyle, pace of walking, and other factors to ensure compatibility.
• Graduation: The final step is a several-weeks-long training session for the dog and its new handler, culminating in a graduation ceremony.

Breeding Program

The breeding program at Guiding Eyes for the Blind is designed to produce dogs with the temperament, intelligence, and physical attributes necessary for guide work. The program focuses on Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds, breeds known for their adaptability, intelligence, and work ethic.

Services and Outreach

In addition to guide dog training, Guiding Eyes for the Blind offers a range of services including:

• Support and follow-up services for graduates
• Public education programs to increase awareness of the roles and responsibilities of guide dogs and their handlers
• Research and development to improve training techniques and outcomes

Funding and Support

As a non-profit organization, Guiding Eyes for the Blind relies on donations, grants, and volunteer support to fund its programs. The organization ensures that guide dogs are provided at no cost to individuals who are visually impaired.

Impact

The impact of Guiding Eyes for the Blind extends beyond the individuals who receive guide dogs. The organization plays a crucial role in promoting accessibility, independence, and inclusion for people with visual impairments, contributing to a more inclusive society.

See Also

• Assistance dog
• Mobility aid
• Visual impairment

External Links

• Official website