The Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides is hosting its annual Walk for Dog Guides event on Friday evening at High Park. The walk begins at 6 p.m., aiming to raise funds and awareness for the training of service dogs that provide independence and support to Canadians with disabilities.
Life-Changing Partnership
Emily Ackerman, a Toronto resident born profoundly deaf, shared how her dog guide Yuki has transformed her life. 'Being partnered with Yuki has positively impacted my independence and acceptance of my identity,' she said. 'She helps me stay aware of my surroundings by alerting me to sounds and activity around me, which gives me confidence and security.'
Ackerman grew up in a hearing family and now relies on Yuki for support at work and in the studio. 'Whether I am commuting or working long hours, her attentiveness allows me to feel safe, capable, and at ease,' she added.
Community Support Vital
Travis Forbes, national event manager for the foundation, emphasized the transformative impact of these dogs. 'They are life-changing dogs. They provide confidence, independence, and security to our clients. These dogs are sometimes an extension of people's arms, people's voice, ears, and people's ability to live life with confidence and independence.'
The cost to fully train a functioning service dog is $35,000, and the process takes approximately two years. Maria Galindo, director of marketing and communications, explained that the cost covers training, food, vet bills, travel, and accommodations for clients. 'A lot of the cost comes from trying to make sure the dogs are healthy to enter into this line of work,' she said.
Seven Programs Offered
The foundation is unique in offering seven programs: canine vision, hearing, service, seizure response, autism assistance, diabetes alert, and facility support. 'We are the only one in the world that has seven programs, which means we have a range of dogs that we can accommodate into each program,' Galindo noted.
Each program requires specific skills. For hearing dogs, the foundation looks for energetic and alert dogs. For autism assistance, they seek calm, affectionate dogs that can provide emotional support through hugging, which helps regulate children's emotions. Autism dogs serve children aged 3-12, while most other programs require clients to be at least 14 years old.
Fundraising Goals
Nationally, the foundation aims to raise $1.6 million this year. As of Thursday evening, $595,097 had been raised. In Toronto, the goal is $40,000, with $12,837 reached so far. The foundation receives no government funding and relies on donors, sponsors, volunteers, and events like the walk.
Walks are planned throughout the Greater Toronto Area this weekend. To donate or find walk locations, visit the Lions Foundation website. 'We just encourage the community to come out and see what we are about,' Galindo said.
