BC & Alberta Guide Dogs Services

Youth Training Program

(for applicants aged 13 to 18 years)

During the application process, BC Guide Dog Services will work closely with you, your parents, appropriate individuals at your school, and other professionals who work with you. Also, we will develop an education program for the student body and faculty at your school, seeking their support in not feeding or distracting your new guide dog.

The youth training program always takes place during the summer vacation from school. We like to begin the class as soon as school is out so that you and your guide dog will have the summer to practice and raise your level of proficiency prior to your return to school in the fall.

Your new canine partner is delivered to your home by your class instructor either on a Wednesday or Thursday. The practical class training then begins the following Monday, and will take place over three weeks (15 days), Monday through Friday. Prior to delivering your guide dog your instructor will have very carefully matched you to your specific dog to meet your individual needs based on your size, walking speed, home environment, and many other criteria.

On the day of pre-class canine placement, your instructor will spend the day with you instructing you on how to walk your dog on a leash with sighted assistance, in-house obedience, free running (in a secure area), feeding, grooming and toiletry. The purpose of the pre-class placement is for you and your new dog to bond together before the rigors of class training begin. This bonding eliminates the possibilities of your dog being distracted by your class instructor.

Your formal training commences on the Monday and over the three weeks you will cover the entire spectrum of training, equipping you for success in your post graduate period. Training would include working your dog in harness in both urban and rural areas. It would also include public transit, public buildings, shopping malls, routes with and without sidewalks, how to deal with obstacles on the sidewalks, safely crossing streets, dealing with the public, and access issues.

During class each instructor always works on an individual basis with one client at a time. On completion of the class you will have attained a high level of competency with your guide dog and be well established in your use of your home routes. Each client receives a minimum of 50 hours of in-harness training in class. Part of your training program will also be conducted within your school to prepare you for your return to class in the fall.

During your first day of school your class instructor will be in attendance to ensure a smooth transition to the busy halls and classrooms.