FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

frequently asked questions and links

How can I help LA Southwest Guide Dog Raisers?
You can help our local group by donating through our GDB account 02-09.  See You Can Help for details.  And thank you for your consideration of LASWGDR.

How do I find out more about Puppy Raising? 
See Puppy Raising on this website.  More detailed information is available at Guide Dogs for the Blind at http://www.guidedogs.com/site/PageServer?pagename=programs_dog_puppy

What can a Guide Dog do?
Guide dogs are amazing and you can learn about what they can and cannot do by clicking here: What a Guide Dog Can Do.

What should I do when I meet a puppy-in-training and/or a working guide team? 
This is a great question, as there are definite rules of etiquette.  For detailed information click here:  Etiquette.

Why are some pups wearing a muzzle?
The "muzzle" you refer to is actually known as a "head collar" or "head halter."  This is definitely not a muzzle.  For more information on this gentle method of training, click here:  Head Collar.

What breeds does GDB use and where do they get them?
Labrador Retrievers have proven to have the most success worldwide as guides.  At Guide Dogs, Labradors constitute the largest percentage of the breeding colony. GDB also has a smaller percentage of Golden Retrievers, and GDB breeds Lab/Golden crosses for use in the training program. The vast majority of the dogs are bred from GDB's specially selected stock, but a percentage are donated from other schools, through international programs, and other means.

How can I arrange for a presentation to my group? 
LASW provides comprehensive presentations to clubs, philanthropic organizations, schools, etc.  Each presentation is tailored to your specific needs.  See Presentations for more information or Contact Us to schedule your event.

How can I adopt a dog that doesn't qualify as a Guide Dog?
The dogs released from the program to become pets or companions are placed in adoptive homes through GDB's Dog Placement Program. Most of the dogs are between 1 and 2 years old, and can be any of our breeds.  See Guide Dogs' website:  http://www.guidedogs.com/site/PageServer?pagename=programs_dog_adoption

How can I learn more about blindness and visual impairments? 
You can schedule a Presentation or check http://www.guidedogs.com/site/PageServer?pagename=resources_links for detailed information. 

How much does a Guide Dog cost?
While a blind person certainly invests a great deal of time and effort into a partnership with a guide dog, they are not asked to make financial payments of any kind for our services.  Guide Dogs for the Blind has never charged a client for any services including the guide dog.

At what age can a person get a guide dog?
Because having a guide dog is a big responsibility, Guide Dogs for the Blind has determined a person must be at least 16 years old to get a guide dog.  GDB has an exciting program for blind or visually impaired youth called K-9 Buddy.  Find out more about the K-9 Buddy program.

How can I find out more?
Guide Dogs for the Blind's website has additional information on many topics including newsletters, event information, resources, and amazing stories from guide dog users.  Be sure to check back frequently for updated information.  Of course, you are always welcome to Contact Us for more information.

LINKS

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