BC and Alberta Guide Dogs
Trish Lund visited us from BC & Alberta Guide Dogs/Autism Support Dogs. She was accompanied by Button, a puppy in training to be a dog with a job. BC&ABGD is a registered charity.
Our mission is to meet the growing demand for professionally trained Guide Dogs and Autism Support Dogs for citizens of British Columbia and Alberta, at all times meeting or exceeding international standards as established by the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International. Dogs are provided at no cost to the recipient. Alberta Guide Dogs and Autism Support Dogs are divisions of BC Guide Dogs.
What We Do
Our Starting Point - The Breeding Program
BC and Alberta Guide Dog Services maintains an in-house breeding program. By only training dogs that we have bred ourselves, we know the genetic history of each dog, which is vital to our ability to produce healthy guide dogs.
Early Education - The Puppy Raising Program
All of our puppies are raised in the homes of volunteer Puppy Raisers rather than in kennels. Volunteer Puppy Raisers prepare our dogs for advanced training by teaching them basic obedience skills and by socializing our puppies so that they are comfortable in public spaces.
Professional Canine Education - The Training Program
At approximately 15 months of age, the dogs enter advanced training, and work with a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor. This advanced training period takes approximately 4 months.
Client Training - Adult Classes
Since 1998, we have been commited to providing domiciliary (in-home) training. Rather than have the blind/visually-impaired person travel to our location, our Guide Dog Mobility Instructors travel to the person's home with the dog, so that the team can train on familiar routes. The training can be completed in approximately 3 weeks.
Client Training - Youth Classes
When training youth clients (aged 13-18), BC and Alberta Guide Dog Services also works closely with the youth's network of supporters (e.g family, school staff) to create a positive educational experience.
Post Graduation - Aftercare Services
We provide aftercare services to our clients through three programs. First, post-class aftercare is provided three months after graduation. Second, annual aftercare takes place with each client for the working life of the dog (usually 8 years). Third, priority aftercare is provided as requested by our clients.
Upcoming events include June 21-Pawsitively Fun Run at Spruce Meadows.
Please visit www.bcguidedog.com for more information.