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Guiding Eyes for the Blind - The Canine Recreation Area is Complete!
The Planet Dog Foundation is a proud supporter of Guiding Eyes for the Blind, a
premier program that breeds, trains and places highly specialized guide dogs with
sight-impaired partners. Guiding Eyes was a recipient of a $38,700 grant
earmarked for a canine recreation area for the adult dogs at their Training Center in Yorktown, NY.
Kristen Smith, PDF Executive Director, attended the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on July 22, celebrating the completion of the recreation area.
The recreation area provides a safe and healthy outdoor area for dogs in training to romp and play, expending excess and nervous energy, and getting the opportunity to play like a dog when not in the rigorous training program. The area is designed to have maximum functionality for the visually impaired partner to be in the fenced in area with their dog, allowing the dog to romp within a safe distance from the person, who can use the long fence for guidance and orientation.
Guiding Eyes puppies are raised by trained volunteer families until 18 months of age and then begin highly specialized training
at the Training Center. Through rigorous exposure, socialization and training, the dogs are prepared to partner
with a visually impaired individual. Guiding Eyes provides the gift of greater personal freedom, independence and
dignity by providing people with the finest bred and trained guide dogs in the world - all at no charge.
If you’re interested in helping Guiding Eyes, here’s how: