Southeastern Guide Dogs is committed to providing you with exceptional customer service as you navigate our application process. The information below will provide you with a clear understanding of our application process.
Eligibility:
In order to qualify for this service, the applicant's child must:
-Have vision loss
-Be between the ages of 5-17
-Reside in the United States
-Have no more than two current dogs at the residence
-Understand that a Skilled Companion Dog is NOT a service animal. It is not trained to mitigate a disability or perform tasks. It is recognized as a Skilled Companion and has no public access rights under the ADA.
Training:
While you are waiting for your call that a dog match has been made, you will have access to an online training course through our Online University that will provide information to get you ready for your dog.
Once Southeastern Guide Dogs has identified a dog which matches your family and lifestyle, you will be contacted by Southeastern Guide Dogs to schedule your placement. During this placement, you will work with our trainers to learn basic obedience and proper care and maintenance of your dog. Upon completion of the training, we will execute an adoption agreement which will transfer ownership of the dog from Southeastern Guide Dogs to you.
Costs:
Southeastern Guide Dogs provides its dogs and training to families free of charge.
When you adopt a Skilled Companion Dog from Southeastern Guide Dogs, the maintenance of your dog and all associated medical expenses become your responsibility. We estimate this cost to be between $900 and $1,200 annually, which includes annual vet visit, food, toys, monthly preventatives, etc...