We train and provide Dog Guides for people living with disabilities across seven different program areas. Select a program below to the view the application process.
Hearing Dog Guides assist Canadians (16+ years) who are deaf or hard of hearing and are unable to detect important sounds. These Dog Guides have been taught to distinguish specific sounds and alert their handler.
Seizure Response Dog Guides assist Canadians (16+ years) with epilepsy. These Dog Guides are trained to bark for help or activate an alert system in the event of a seizure.
Service Dog Guides assist Canadians (14+ years) who have a physical or medical disability. These Dog Guides are trained to retrieve objects, open and close doors and appliances, and get help by barking or activating an alert system.
Autism Assistance Dog Guides assist children (ages 3-12) on the autism spectrum. These Dog Guides provide safety, companionship and unconditional love.
Diabetes Alert Dog Guides assist Canadians (16+ years) who have diabetes with hypoglycemic unawareness. They are trained to detect sudden drops in their handler’s blood sugar and alert them.
Facility Support dogs are for professional agencies that assist individuals in traumatic situations. These dogs are trained to provide on-scene support when requested to those most vulnerable in the community.
Canine Vision Dog Guides assist Canadians (14+ years) who are blind or visually impaired. These Dog Guides are trained to safely navigate obstacles typically found on daily routes.
One in four* Canadians 15 years of age and up are living with one or more disabilities. Our vision is to provide the best experience for Canadians with disabilities who can benefit from a Dog Guide. Since 1985, we have matched 3,000 Dog Guides with qualified applicants, empowering them to navigate their world with confidence and independence.
*Source: Statistics Canada 2022
Not all of our dogs are meant to be working Dog Guides. And that’s OK! See what dogs are available and looking for loving homes.