Guide Dog Application Process
You can apply online or download the application and send it to us. We'll go over more about each part of the application and why we need it below. In addition to your application, we require a short video demonstrating your independent travel skills in your home area.
Once we receive your complete application, the review process typically takes 30 to 60 days. If you are approved, assignment to a class can take upwards of 6 to 12 months depending on a number of variables.
We'll start your application review as soon as your client services coordinator has received all the required items listed below. We're ready to assist you with your mobility needs. Please contact us if you need more information or assistance with your application!
The application for training provides us with an overview of who you are, including where you live, your health, travel skills, education, employment, previous guide dog experience and references. Please provide as much information as possible for each section.
Please note, the application must be signed and dated by you and witnessed by one person.
The medical history and vision evaluation forms should be completed by your physician and eye care professional. If you have health concerns that could complicate training, please make sure these concerns are stated clearly by your physician. Training, especially for the guide dog program, is demanding and requires several hours of walking and working with a dog each day.
The waiver release of liability, indemnity and consent form allows us to contact the people listed on your application. All information is confidential and is never distributed outside of Leader Dog.
This form also allows us to share information with other professionals selectively. For example, it allows us to supply a doctor’s office or hospital with your medical information if you are accepted for training at Leader Dog and need to see a doctor while you are here.
To assist our admissions committee in assessing your skills and suitability for training, we need a video showing your independent travel skills. The video will also help our instructors select the perfect dog match for you.
If you are unable to create your own video, your local Lions club may be able to help. If you need assistance contacting a Lions club, call us at 248.651.9011 or toll free at 888.777.5332.
Video Checklist
- Answer the interview questions listed on the Video Request Sheet.
- Give a quick tour of the home where the dog will be living, including where the dog would relieve itself.
- Go up and down stairs.
- Demonstrate a route that you travel frequently that includes multiple intersections that are familiar to you.
- Travel in your workplace (if applicable).
- Video submissions should include 10–15 minutes of you traveling your route. If your route is longer than 15 minutes, please include it in its entirety.
Videographer Guidelines
- Keep natural sounds in the video (do not add music or sound effects).
- Avoid interfering with applicant in any way, unless applicant’s safety is in jeopardy.
- Avoid excessive editing. We prefer to see a continuous video when possible.
- Follow 3–5 feet behind applicant, keeping their full body in the video frame as much as possible.
Acceptable Video Formats
- Dropbox — Upload .mp4 or .wmv file to your Dropbox account and provide a shared link to access the file via email to clientservices@leaderdog.org.
- YouTube — Upload the video to your YouTube account, then email a shared link to clientservices@leaderdog.org (if you want your video to be available to us but not to the general public, change the privacy setting to "Unlisted").
Next Steps:
Still Have Questions Before You Apply?
Share your info below and our client services team will get back to you with answers within two business days.
