FAQs

When did the Guide Dog movement start in Australia?

It was established in Perth in 1951 by volunteers, with the support of the Apex Australia. Now there are independent Guide Dog organisations providing services in all states and territories, who are affiliated under the Guide Dogs Australian banner. Guide Dogs Queensland was incorporated in 1960. Though services originally started in Queensland under the umbrella of the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia.

Do you charge for your services and equipment?

No, all of our services are provided free of charge to all Queenslanders who are blind and vision impaired.

Do you receive any government funding?

Yes, Guide Dogs Queensland receives less than seven per cent government funding for some specific fee-for-service Rehabilitation programs however we do not receive any funding for our Guide Dogs.

How long does it take to train a Guide Dog?

The dogs spend about 12 months in the Puppy Development Program with a volunteer Puppy Raiser. This is followed by about six months of intensive training with a Guide Dog Instructor, then one month to match the Guide Dog with its new handler to ensure that they can travel together safely and independently. Click here to learn more about being a Puppy Raiser.

Where do we source Guide Dogs?

Guide Dogs Queensland has its own breeding colony, and expects a record number of pups in 2010. We also source bloodlines and semen from renowned Guide Dog schools from Australia and around the world.

What happens to dogs that are unsuitable as Guide Dogs?

Dogs that fail to meet the standard are withdrawn from the program and re-classified for alternative careers, or re-homed with suitable applicants. The dogs that don’t make it may go on to new careers as our own Guide Dogs-in-training (Public Relations); detector dogs with the Corrective Services Queensland; or companion dogs for children and adults with special needs. There is currently a waiting list for people who are interested in re-homing our Guide Dogs who don’t make it. For more information please call Kylie on Freecall 1800 810 122.

What is the average working life of a Guide Dog?

Guide Dogs usually begin work with their handler at about 20 months old, with a well-earned retirement about 8 to 10 years later. Upon retirement, a Guide Dog can remain with the client as a pet or live with a family member. If these options are not available, GDQ finds a loving and suitable home through its Guide Dog re-homing program.