Prospective Clients
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the virtual learning options or would like to learn more about a topic, please email Leslie Hoskins or give her a call at 248-650-7104.
Interested in applying for a program at Leader Dog? Explore Guide Dog, Orientation and Mobility or Teen Summer Camp.
What is O&M?
Have you heard the term "O&M" but aren't sure what it means? Learn about orientation and mobility (also known as white cane training) and Leader Dog's unique approach to white cane training.
Guide Dog Readiness
Are you ready for a guide dog? Hear from our certified orientation and mobility specialists and guide dog mobility instructors about strategies to prepare yourself and decide if now is the right time.
Client Testimonials
Hear from Leader Dog graduates about their experiences during training at Leader Dog. Three graduates will discuss why they wish they would have come to Leader Dog sooner!
Campus Tour
Are you thinking about coming to training at Leader Dogs for the Blind and want to learn more about campus? Check out this video to learn more about the wonderful accommodations and what to expect on campus.
Accessible Pedestrian Signals
Ever wondered what those beeping poles are at intersections and/or how they work? Learn what Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) are and what they are not, how they can assist with orientation and mobility, and how to request an APS in your area (download sample letter).
Programs and Services FAQs
Do you have some questions about Leader Dog and our programs and services? We've taken some of our most frequently asked questions and had our experts answer them! If you have additional questions please send them our way and we'll be happy to answer them for you!
When is it Time to Consider Using a White Cane?
How do you know when it's the right time to get a white cane? Where do you get a white cane and how do you learn how to use it? During this short presentation you will learn the history of the white cane and how or when to get started.
Making a Guide Dog Application Video for Leader Dog
Getting ready to apply for training at Leader Dog? Leader Dog requires a video with your application to find out more about your mobility skills and prep the best training for each applicant. View a sample application video and learn what is important to include and some tips and tricks for the videographer.
What to Expect When Applying to Leader Dog
Have you ever wondered about the application process for Leader Dog programs? This video shares what to expect when applying to Leader Dog including what to bring and how to prepare.
Descriptive Yoga
Have you ever considered trying yoga? This video provides a one-hour descriptive yoga session provided by yoga instructor, Heidi Hess. Heidi walks participants through some common yoga poses that can be beneficial for body awareness, balance and strength.
The Unique Matching Process of Handler and Guide Dog
Have you ever wondered how guide dog mobility instructors (GDMI) find the perfect guide dog for individuals who are blind or visually impaired? During this video you will learn what GDMIs look for in both the client and guide dog and how complete the unique matching process.
Teen Opportunities at Leader Dogs for the Blind
Do you know a teenager who is blind or visually impaired and looking to learn more about orientation and mobility or guide dogs? This video discusses the programs at Leader Dog specific to teens including our Youth O&M and Teen Summer Camp.
Human Guide for Individuals Who are Blind or Visually Impaired
Wondering how you can help someone who is blind or visually impaired? Learn how to offer assistance and help guide someone safely. You can also download our human guide brochure for handy techniques.
Life Cycle of a Leader Dog: Breeding
The breeding department discusses our breeding program and why we breed our own dogs. A volunteer breeding host shares their experiences as they prepare to return their most recent litter of puppies.
Life Cycle of a Leader Dog: Puppy Raising
Our puppy development department explains some new options for raising a puppy, and a puppy raiser shares about their puppy raising journey.
Life Cycle of a Leader Dog: Formal Training
The training department discusses our formal training process and what it takes to become a Leader Dog. They also discuss why a dog may be career changed from the program.
Planning for the Arrival of a New Leader Dog
Gather some tips to help you make a smooth transition to your home environment with your new Leader Dog! Learn about some things to consider prior to bringing your dog home after graduation.
Life Cycle of a Leader Dog: Class
Learn about the Leader Dog class experience and the final phase of the Lifecycle of a Leader Dog. Clients are matched with a guide dog and learn how to navigate the world together.
Collaboration Events
Collaboration Events are an opportunity to spotlight other organizations within the blindness and low vision field to learn about additional available resources. While Leader Dog has many programs and services to offer, we are not alone and there are numerous other organizations that could be of great benefit to our contacts. These events are held the last Wednesday of every month at 3 p.m. EST and are open to anyone.
Get your invite to upcoming Collaboration Events.
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the virtual learning options or would like to learn more about a topic, please email Leslie Hoskins or give her a call at 248-650-7104.
Want to know when new resources are added to this page?