September 1-30

National Guide Dog Month

This National Guide Dog Month, honor the hardworking and loyal service dogs who help individuals with disabilities lead independent lives.

Yearly Date

September 1

Observed in

United States

Introduction

September is not only the start of fall, but it's also National Guide Dog Month! This month-long celebration is dedicated to honoring and appreciating the amazing work of guide dogs and their handlers. Did you know that the first guide dog was a German Shepherd named Buddy who helped his blind owner navigate busy streets in 1928? Since then, guide dogs have been providing independence, companionship, and safety to individuals with visual impairments. So let's take a moment to recognize these incredible animals and all they do for their human partners during this special month!

National Guide Dog Month Timeline

1928

First Guide Dog

The world's first guide dog, a German Shepherd named Buddy, was trained to help his blind owner navigate busy city streets.

1931

First Guide Dog School

The first guide dog school in the United States, The Seeing Eye, was founded in New Jersey, setting a precedent for future training facilities.

1956

Guide Dogs for the Blind

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association expands its reach from the UK to North America, providing more services and guide dogs to individuals in need.

1981

ADA Recognition

The U.S. Department of Justice officially recognized guide dogs in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring legal protection and access rights.

2008

National Guide Dog Month

Dick Van Patten, an actor and animal welfare advocate, established National Guide Dog Month in September to recognize the work of guide dogs and their trainers.

How to Celebrate National Guide Dog Month

1 Volunteer at a guide dog organization

Spend some time giving back to the guide dog community by volunteering at a local guide dog organization. You can help with tasks such as walking the dogs, cleaning kennels, or assisting with training exercises.

2 Attend a guide dog graduation ceremony

Many guide dog organizations hold graduation ceremonies to celebrate and honor the hard work and dedication of their guide dogs and trainers. Attend one of these events to show your support and appreciation for these amazing animals.

3 Donate to a guide dog organization

If you are not able to volunteer or attend an event, consider making a donation to a guide dog organization. Your contribution can help provide training, food, and medical care for these incredible animals.

4 Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to educate others about the importance of guide dogs and their impact on the lives of those with visual impairments. Share facts, photos, and personal stories to spread awareness.

5 Adopt or foster a retired guide dog

Consider giving a loving home to a retired guide dog. These dogs have served their purpose and deserve a comfortable and loving retirement. If you are not able to adopt, consider fostering a retired guide dog until they find their forever home.

Why We Love National Guide Dog Month

Guide dogs provide crucial support to individuals with disabilities

Guide dogs are not only lovable and adorable, but they also play a crucial role in aiding those with visual impairments or other disabilities. They provide a sense of independence and unconditional love to their owners, which is why National Guide Dog Month is important for raising awareness about these amazing animals.

They go through extensive training to become guide dogs

Guide dogs undergo rigorous training and must be highly obedient and attentive in order to perform their duties effectively. This training process can take up to 2 years, making guide dogs truly dedicated and hardworking companions.

They form an unbreakable bond with their owners

Guide dogs not only provide physical assistance, but they also become best friends and constant companions to their owners. The strong bond formed between guide dog and owner is truly special, and National Guide Dog Month celebrates and recognizes this unique relationship.