Dogs have always been considered man’s best friend. Their loyalty and affection has made them more than just pets; they are companions who give their owners unbridled friendship and service. These are the same qualities that inspired one charitable organization to seek the help of dogs in giving the disabled the guidance and affection they need.

The Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind has been providing guide dogs to blind people since 1946 – free of charge – to help the disabled regain independence and mobility. It all started when a group of civic leaders decided to establish a school for guide dogs.  They contacted dog trainer William Holzmann to develop a training method for these K9 friends. In just one year, Holzmann was able to train two guide dogs. This number grew over the years. Today, the organization accepts blind students all over the country for a training program that helps them foster a successful relationship with a guide dog.

Their dog programs consist of a 25-day in-house training at their campus, located in Smithtown, New York. By the end of the training, the student and the guide dog shall have established a life in coexistence with one another.  They will become a team of partnership, of independence, and of loyalty.

As a non-profit organization, the training program, as well as the guide dog, is free to any student who enrolls.  The Guide Dog Foundation relies only on contributions from individuals, corporations, or other organizations that are generous enough to share their blessings. There are many ways on how to help them, and the organization is always happy to accept anyone’s support.

Given a grade of “A” by the American Institute of Philanthropy, the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind is one of the best providers of trained companions for the disabled in the country.