Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind was founded in 1992 by Eric and Sharon Loori.
Our dogs are bred specifically for guiding right here at our facility. We work mostly with Labrador Retrievers, but also train Smooth-coated Collies and Barbets.
Our puppies are raised by volunteers called “Puppy Raisers” for approximately 1.5 years, then the dogs begin their formal training for guide work.
It takes about four to five months to train a guide dog. Ten days to two weeks are spent training the client and the dog together as a team.
The average work life of a guide dog is eight to 10 years.
It costs $25,000 to breed, raise, train and place one guide dog, which includes lifetime technical support. We provide training and guide dog placement at no cost to the client.
Our work is funded through the generous support of caring individuals, grant support, and service clubs.
