Guide Dog Mobility
A Guide Dog can bring independence and freedom to people who are blind or vision impaired.
Guide Dogs offer a dynamic form of independent mobility, enabling the handler to walk freely and feel confident knowing their Guide Dog will not only recognise obstacles but guide safely around them. Guide Dogs will also stop at kerbs and assist the handler to make safe road crossings.
Who Could Benefit?
Applicants do not have to be totally blind. Our clients have varying degrees of vision impairment that diminish their ability to travel safely and independently.
There is no age limit but applicants should be physically able to manage and care for their dog and sufficiently mature to provide the necessary leadership and direction. Ideally they should regularly travel to at least three different destinations to maintain their dog's guiding skills and motivation.
Assessment and Training
If the client and Instructor both feel the client is ready for Guide Dog Mobility following their assessment, we will seek the closest match with the Guide Dogs in the final stages of training. Each Guide Dog must complement their companion's lifestyle, personality and mobility needs.
The client and Instructor develop a training action plan together. Training for first time clients usually takes four weeks and is generally conducted at GDV's residential centre Arnold Cook House in Kew. If appropriate, training is conducted from the person's home.
With their Instructor's support, the Guide Dog handler will progressively develop the skills and confidence they need to work successfully with their Guide Dog. Immediately after class, an Instructor will provide follow up training to ensure the new team is travelling safely and confidently on the client's regular routes. Routine follow up continues throughout the average eight to ten year working life of each Guide Dog.
How Much Does it Cost the Client?
All Guide Dogs Victoria training programs are provided entirely free of charge to clients. Each Guide Dog costs the organisation more than $25 000 but thanks to community support, we can provide Guide Dogs, training and ongoing follow up services free of charge. The Guide Dog handler is responsible for their Guide Dog's ongoing veterinary care and maintenance.
For Further Information Contact:
For a free assessment and confidential consultation at our Centre for Mobility Assessment & Training:
Phone: (03) 9854 4444
Email: referrals@guidedogsvictoria.com.au
Private Bag 13
Chandler Highway
Kew Victoria 3101
