Thirty dog lovers met at Marin Guide Dogs for the Blind on Saturday, November 5th. We were treated to a tour of the premises which are located in San Rafael conveniently adjacent to the graveyard. We were told this is a most fortuitous spot as there are never any complaints about noise, and it’s also a good location to exercise the dogs.
The tour started with a brief introductory film featuring a recipient of one of the dogs, depicting his life before and after receiving his guide dog. The dogs truly open up life for a sightless person, who might otherwise have a very limited lifestyle. Dogs are trained to lead their owners down busy streets, to cross the road, and even when to respond to the telephone or a knock at the door.
We walked around the kennels and viewed the dogs. There are different sections depending on the age of the puppies, for instance 3-6 months, 6-0 months. Their collars are color-coded depending on their age and that helps the volunteers give them the correct food mix and exercise program.
Potential owners are housed in apartments located on the premises and come from across the country. They spend a week getting to know their new guide dog and training together before they depart with their new helper. All expenses are paid by Guide Dogs for the Blind, including vet’s bills if the dog needs treatment.
Our tour was followed by a short drive to San Rafael for lunch and lots of conversation. Our thanks to Jim & Yvonne Klein for spearheading this event—we all wanted to take a puppy home but they wouldn’t let us.
Thank you to Jim & Yvonne Klein for organizing a special event and educating us all on the essential need to support the skills and dedication of this excellent organization.
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