K9 Buddy Self Screening

Consider these questions to assess the applicant's interest and readiness for our program. While it’s important that the dog forms a special bond with the primary applicant, individuals may receive assistance from their household or support network to fulfill the criteria and meet all of the dog’s needs.

• Are you legally blind or do you have a significant visual impairment that impacts daily activities and is not easily correctable with glasses, contact lenses, or other treatments?
• Do you/your child naturally enjoy interacting with a dog? Applicants who have limited dog interaction or any fear toward dogs should seek out appropriate opportunities for positive experiences before applying to the program.
• Are you interested in the breeds that GDB uses: Labradors, Golden Retrievers, or a crossbreed of the two? Are you looking for a dog between 2-4 years old? 
• Are you looking solely for a companion and not a mobility aide? K9 Buddy dogs are not service dogs. They are not trained to perform tasks to mitigate a disability and do not have public access rights under the ADA. They are not permitted to go places where a pet dog is not allowed, including traveling in the cabin of an airplane or residing in housing with pet restrictions. K9 Buddy clients are prohibited from pursuing additional training to certify the dog as a service or support animal of any kind.
• Can you provide at least 30 minutes of daily exercise to meet a young dog’s needs? Exercise may include walks, running in a securely fenced area, and play. 
• Can you provide for the physical and emotional needs of your companion? A K9 Buddy will need a safe home environment, quality food, several daily opportunities to relieve, grooming, veterinarian visits, playtime, and affection from its partner. 
• Are you willing to follow GDB guidelines for managing a dog, including keeping your dog on a leash at all times in unfenced areas? Are you interested in maintaining a long-term relationship with GDB for follow-up and support?
• GDB dogs have been raised in an environment where they interact with people throughout the day. K9 Buddy dogs should not be expected to spend most of their day alone. If there is an occasion where you are gone for more than 4 hours, can you commit to making arrangements for dog care?
• Are you willing to wait several months, or longer, for a K9 Buddy dog? After the 4-month application process, if accepted, recent average wait times to be matched have ranged from an additional 6 months to a year (or longer), depending on client needs and dog availability.