Guide Dogs of Texas Inc

Guide Dogs of Texas provides high-quality guide dogs to visually impaired Texans. Their program involves several stages, starting with Puppy Raisers and Puppy Sitters who rear and socialize puppies from 8 weeks to approximately 16 months in their homes, requiring a 6-12 month commitment for raisers and short-term for sitters.

Following this, dogs enter Advanced Training, where Boarders provide care for these dogs (no younger than 1 year old and usually house-trained) during evenings and weekends. The organization provides ongoing training for volunteers involved in the puppy program. The core service is the provision of professionally trained and personally matched guide dogs to clients.

Pricing Summary

The organization provides guide dogs to clients. Clients are expected to support an estimated amount of $1,300 annually for the care of their guide dog. Guide Dogs of Texas also has a “Proud Partner” recurring giving program for financial support, which is a donation program.

Guide Dogs of Texas Inc is a 501c3 nonprofit organization committed to enhancing freedom, mobility, and independence for Texans who are visually impaired through the provision of high-quality guide dogs. They focus on personalized service and lifelong dedication to their clients and their guide dogs.

The organization was founded in 1989 by Ken and Deborah Baker in San Antonio, aiming to provide vital guide dog services locally so Texans wouldn’t have to travel far. They boast a fully accredited program recognized by the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) and are an active member of the North American Council of Guide Dog Schools.

Their services primarily revolve around training and providing guide dogs, which involves a comprehensive program from puppy raising to advanced training. They rely heavily on volunteers for various roles, including puppy raisers, puppy sitters, and boarders for dogs in advanced training. They also offer opportunities for community engagement through ambassador roles, human guiding, driving, facilities maintenance, and office assistance.

Accomplishments

Guide Dogs of Texas was started in 1989 by Ken and Deborah Baker. It is a fully accredited program recognized by the prestigious International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). The organization is also an active member of the North American Council of Guide Dog Schools.

How to Get Started!

To begin the process of getting a guide dog, interested individuals are encouraged to review a self-assessment checklist to ensure readiness. Prerequisites include being legally blind, at least 16 years of age, a Texas resident, and having received orientation and mobility training. Applicants must also be able to travel independently for 25-30 minutes or 1/2 to 1 mile at least three times a week using a mobility tool.

They must be able to provide for the physical and emotional needs of a guide dog, including an estimated $1,300 annually for care. Those living with the applicant must be comfortable with a dog in the home and willing to comply with guidelines. The application can be downloaded and emailed to outreach@guidedogsoftexas.org or mailed to 1503 Allena Dr, San Antonio, TX 78213. Helpful documents, including FAQs and cost information, are available for download.