International Guide Dog Day

Today is International Guide Dog Day! This day celebrates the importance of guide dogs and how they help the blind and visually impaired live their daily lives. Guide dogs are carefully trained to avoid obstacles, access public transportation, cross roads safely, and other daily tasks to help their handlers’ specific needs.

Did you know that Guide Dogs of America trains 70% Labrador retrievers, 15% Golden Retrievers, and 15% German Shepherds for their guide dogs? Once the dogs complete their formal 2-year training, they are matched with a blind or visually impaired student based on size, lifestyle, energy level, and personalities of both the student and dog to form a happy relationship. 

Today honors guide dogs, as well as the hard working people who dedicate their time to train and match guide dogs to their owners. Celebrate International Guide Dog Day by expressing your gratitude to these dedicated dogs!