Changing Lives One Dog At A Time
Why a Guide (Service ) Dog ?
Service Guide Dogs provide invaluable assistance to South Africans aged 14 and older who live with physical or medical disabilities. These specially trained dogs offer a wide range of support, including retrieving objects that are out of reach, opening and closing doors and appliances, and activating automatic buttons. Additionally, they are trained to recognize situations where help is needed, either by alerting their owner or barking to draw attention, or by activating an alert system to notify others of the person’s need for assistance. Through their training and skills, these guide dogs significantly improve the independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Before submitting your application, please review the Discovery Package to confirm that you meet the qualification criteria. The application process is intensive and emotional, and your active participation will be required if you choose to move forward. It’s essential to fully understand everything before making this important decision.
We are beyond excited to announce the official launch of our Service Guide Dog Program! This incredible initiative is designed to empower South Africans (ages 14 and up) with physical or medical disabilities by providing them with highly trained Dog Guides who are here to make a real difference. These exceptional dogs are not only skilled in retrieving items and opening or closing doors, but they are also trained to bark on command for help, offering their owners unmatched assistance and independence. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this life-changing support and help create a more inclusive and accessible world for those who need it most!
Application and Training Process
Step 1 - Discovery
Welcome to the beginning of your journey with Smart Service Dogs of South Africa Guide Dogs! Training each of our dogs is a detailed process, but we understand that an assistance dog isn’t the right fit for everyone. The Discovery process is designed to provide you with all the information you need to decide if this path is right for you.
Throughout Discovery, you’ll have the chance to explore materials about our organization, the program that best suits your needs, and what’s involved in working with a Guide Dog. These resources will help you build a solid foundation of knowledge, preparing you for the responsibilities of being part of a Team and giving you insight into what life with a Guide Dog will be like.
Step 2 Expression of Interest
During the Expression of Interest phase, we will request some fundamental information from you to assess whether you meet the eligibility requirements for our program. This initial information helps us ensure that your profile aligns with our criteria. If we determine that you qualify, a representative from our Client Services team will reach out to schedule a phone interview. The interview will allow us to gather more detailed information about your background, goals, and interests, which will help us make a more informed decision about whether you are ready to proceed with the formal application process.
Step 3 Application
Once you submit a complete program application, it will be reviewed to ensure all necessary information is included. Our Client Services team will assess the details and reach out to you within five business days if they have any questions. Additionally, we will arrange an in-home assessment, which may be conducted either in-person or virtually. This assessment allows us to understand more about you and the environment where a Guide Dog could potentially live. After the assessment, your profile will be presented to our Admissions Committee for review. They will evaluate your application and home assessment to determine if we can train a Guide Dog to meet your specific needs. A Client Services team member will contact you with an update once a decision has been made.
Step 4 Dog Team Matching
Upon acceptance into one of our programs, our Client Services team works closely with our Program Instructors to carefully assess your lifestyle, activity level, and the unique requirements of your medical or physical disability. This collaborative process is designed to determine which type of dog would be the best fit for you. The goal is to find a companion that not only complements your daily routine but also meets the specific needs of your condition. While the process of matching the right dog with each client can take some time, it is one of the most vital and rewarding steps in the journey toward building a meaningful and lasting partnership.
Step 5 On Campus Training
Once we’ve matched you with a suitable Guide Dog, we’ll reach out about 6-8 weeks in advance to invite you to our Training Facility. During this time, you’ll participate in On-Campus training with us and meet your new canine teammate! Depending on the program, we’ll invite you to stay with us for 10-21 days to learn how to handle and care for your dog, while also bonding and practicing together in our facility. Our Program Instructors will be on-site during class to support you, answer any questions, and help you build the confidence and skills needed to graduate as a new Team.
Step 6 Ongoing Support
Once you depart from our facility, your journey with your Guide Dog will begin, but rest assured, you and your Guide Dog will never walk alone! The Smart Service Dog will continue to assist you until your Guide Dog is ready for retirement. Within 4-8 weeks after leaving, one of our Program Instructors will visit your home to check how you’re adjusting, offer additional support, and address any questions you might have. Our Client Services team is also available to provide ongoing assistance to ensure the well-being and success of your partnership.
