You and guide dog ownership

Do you, or does someone you know, have sight loss that makes it difficult to get around independently or live life to the full? A guide dog could make a life-changing difference. Guide Dogs could change your life

Did you know…?

• There are no age restrictions – people of all ages can now apply for a guide dog. Young people through to people in their seventies, eighties and even nineties have become successful guide dog owners
• Guide Dogs has recently removed the lower age limit for guide dog ownership, and is now offering guide dogs to children and young people under the age of 16.
• You don’t need to have lost all your sight. Most people who own a guide dog still have some vision. You don’t have to be formally registered as blind or partially-sighted, either
• It costs just 50p to have a guide dog. All essential equipment and training is provided by Guide Dogs, and we can also cover the cost of vet bills and dog food if people wish
• No previous experience of keeping or caring for a dog is necessary. Providing you are committed and able enough to work with, support and care for a guide dog then our training will teach you all you need to know
• It’s not just about improving your mobility. A guide dog and its owner exist as a partnership, and the companionship, loyalty and fun that each partner brings to this relationship can be immensely rewarding

You can read and print info on getting a guide dog as a PDF 250kb

You can listen to or download info on getting a guide dog as an audio file 3.9MB

How to get in touch

You can contact your local Guide Dogs District team, all details are available in our District Team section. Our staff there will answer any questions you have, and will arrange an informal visit if that is what you'd like.

If you would rather, you can contact us on 0845 3727499, or email us using the online form below. Someone from your nearest Guide Dogs District Team will then contact you within 3 working days.