How Guide Dogs of Texas, Inc. impacts San Antonio's shared Community Vision
Guide Dogs of Texas (GDTX) matches people who are visually impaired with a professionally bred and trained guide dog, increasing their freedom, mobility, and independence. From safely navigating curbs, sidewalks, and stairs, to helping individuals get to work, school, a medical appointment, or a friend's house, quality guide dogs dramatically improve the quality of life of people who are visually impaired. Twenty-five percent of GDTX clients report obtaining employment after completing training with their matched guide dog;75% feel more comfortable navigating complex crossings or traffic intersections with their dog versus with a white cane;65% report being able to navigate non-sidewalks better than when using a cane;65% report it being easier to navigate buildings indoors with their guide dogs;and, nearly 80% report that they are more comfortable engaging with others when using a guide dog versus a white cane. Guide Dogs of Texas specifically works with people who are legally blind age 17 and older. Client training takes places in their community to alleviate the cost and burden of travel or taking off work, yielding a 100% training completion rate.