Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) have announced today (Oct. 27) that they’re expanding their K9 Buddy Program to cover blind and visually impaired adults throughout the US. Not only that, reports Business Wire, but there’s a view to expanding it to cover Canada in the future too.
The program matches dogs with people who are visually impaired, becoming companions and pets. Before, the program focussed solely on young people in the west of the US.
Offering Help and Companionship
People meeting the above criteria can still expect help from the organization. However, more adults across the country will be able to get help too. Meanwhile, people interested in guide dogs – even those who might not qualify for a canine themselves – can join the community.
As well as getting their K9 Buddy for free, recipients are eligible for the Veterinary Financial Assistance program. This will help them look after their dog’s healthcare needs throughout their life.
Both adults and children over the age of five can be eligible for a Buddy, as long as they have a visual impairment as verified by an ophthalmology report. They should be able to offer a dog a stable, safe, and loving home, with the ability to care for their pup. This includes feeding, grooming, and exercising them.
Pets, Not Service Dogs
While K9 Buddies offer companionship to visually impaired folks, they’re not service dogs. They aren’t trained to perform the tasks of a service dog. And as a result, they aren’t defined as service dogs as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“We believe a dog can make a remarkable difference in any person’s life, by fostering a sense of caring, responsibility, self-esteem, and confidence,” said Kelsey Gilbert, the Guide Dogs for the Blind K9 Buddy Program manager. “We’re delighted to spread the love and benefits of having a K9 Buddy to a greater number of people throughout the U.S. and ultimately Canada.”
