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Mythbusting facts on getting a Guide Dog
Myth #1: I have too much vision for a Guide Dog
Guide Dogs Victoria works with Clients of all stages of vision loss and some individuals may not be aware how limiting their vision has become. If you are identifying challenges with everyday tasks or mobility then we would be keen to work with you and provide education in supporting your access to the community.
Myth #2: I live in an apartment, so I can’t have a dog
We have many Guide Dog Handlers that live in apartments and enjoy the mobility support and company a Guide Dog provides. We assess everyone and their circumstances as an individual so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about the suitability of your accommodation.
Myth #3: I have a pet dog, so a Guide Dog would not feel welcome
Our dogs are incredibly social and love the company of other dogs and pets in general. Our staff will be able to advise you on the best way to manage this and support a Guide Dog transitioning into the home. Many of our Puppy Raisers also have other pets themselves, so our dogs are desensitised to lots of animals.
Myth #4: I work, so I can’t take my dog to the workplace
Guide Dogs have a wide variety of access rights and workplaces are very supportive of Guide Dogs entering their facilities. If your workplace is industrialised and you are concerned about safety, our staff will be able to provide you the best advice around how to manage this.
Myth #5: I am studying and a Guide Dog would be challenged by the complicated university environment and disrupt study
Guide Dogs thrive on challenges and enjoy using their initiative to work through complicated environments. They are extremely well-behaved, so would not be a distraction while you are studying and can even be an advantage to meeting people and engaging in social conversation.
Myth #6: I travel too much and I’m worried about how my Guide Dog would cope
Some of our Guide Dogs have flown more miles than pilots! Our training is personalised, so if you like to travel a lot, we will help you train with your dog in airports and on planes to get you both comfortable. Plus, all airports have dog toileting facilities. It’s quite accessible these days.
Myth #7: I don’t work or study, so the Guide Dog will not have enough work to do
A Guide Dog is a good reason to get out and about to complete everyday living tasks such as shopping and meeting people for social events. Regular exercise is amazing for the body and mind, so walking with a Guide Dog will promote improved physical and mental wellbeing as well as socialisation.
Myth #8: I do not qualify for a Guide Dog due to age
We will assess every application on its merit and recommend pathways to individuals achieving their goals. Please feel free to speak to our staff in relation to your mobility preferences.
Myth #9: I don’t qualify for funding (NDIS, My Aged Care)
If you don’t qualify for government funding streams, we provide options courtesy of philanthropic donations.
Curious about what it takes to make a great Guide Dog Handler?
Check out our article about what makes a good Handler or talk to our team directly on getting paired with a Guide Dog now on 1800 804 805.
