Get ready for freedom.
Do you want more independence? If you’re a mature teen with vision loss, you might be ready for a guide dog before you finish high school.
We’ve created a special, no-cost guide dog program for responsible teens like you. If you are accepted into our program, we’ll match you with a highly trained guide dog. Our certified instructor will work with you here on our campus as well as in your home and school environment, offering flexibility that fits with your schedule. You’ll learn how to work with your dog, including basic and advanced cues, navigation skills, and more.
Responsible teen who’s ready to go? We may have just the dog for you.
For teens ages 15 – 17 who are ready, navigating with a guide dog allows you to experience new freedom and confidence, even before venturing out on your own. Our instructors will evaluate your needs and match you with a dog that is just right for you. In addition to teaching you all you need to know, your instructor is available to teach school pack member and students proper guide dog etiquette. Then, after your training, our Alumni Support team will follow up with you for the working life of the team.
For more information about our Youth Guide Dog program, please email youth@dogsinc.org or call 941.479.6598 to learn more.
Teen Camp: A packed day of possibility
Join us for Teen Camp! Designed for teens with visual impairments ages 14–17 and their parents, this one-day experience offers a first glimpse into the world of guide dogs. Teens will spend a full day on the Dogs Inc Palmetto, Florida campus exploring what it means to partner with a highly skilled guide dog—what these dogs do, how they’re trained, and how a future match could change their life.
This immersive day includes hands-on time with dogs, inspiring presentations, and lunch in our dining hall.
Space is limited to 12 attendees.
Stay tuned for more camp dates!
Is a guide dog right for you?
At Dogs Inc, we understand the unique challenges and dreams of teenagers living with visual impairments. Our guide dogs aren’t merely pets, they’re specially trained companions designed to provide independence, confidence, and mobility to young individuals like you. Each guide dog partnership is nurtured with love and dedication and focused on understanding the special needs of teenagers, creating a bond that goes beyond the leash.
This journey is about more than companionship—it’s about growing, learning, and thriving. The connection between a guide dog and guardian is profound, built on trust and cooperation, giving you the power to navigate your world with confidence, and grace.
Are you ready to take the first step toward an exciting and independent chapter in your life? Discover the opportunities that await you with Dogs Inc. Your transformational journey begins here.
What You Can Expect
From application to match day, guide dog candidates experience an average waiting period of 6-12 months.
1 APPLY – Submit application
2 FORMS – Submit required physician forms
3 INTERVIEWS – Complete phone and home interviews
4 REVIEW – If accepted, you will be notified
5 MATCH – Meet your dog on your 21-day campus stay
Youth Guide Dog Application
“It’s really nice to have someone who’s looking out for me. I’m so lucky that I have a guide dog as my hero.”
— Teen Charlotte with Guide Dog Essie | Goshen, New York
