Introduction

The Mission of the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) is to support its members in their efforts to encourage and advance the provision of guide dogs as a means of independent mobility for people who are blind or with low vision. One of the IGDF objectives is to provide guidance and support to emerging guide dog services. The status of Enquiring Organisations (EOs) and Applicant Organisation (AOs) were created to provide official channels for this support and there are various resources available to the organisations with these statuses. 

The IGDF Development Committee (DC) works with emerging organisations through mentoring and assistance tailored to their needs. Sample documents are available to EOs and AOs.  

This information was written to provide you with practical guidance as you consider starting a guide dog organisation. Some elements of this guidance may not be relevant to all organisations. This information is NOT the IGDF Standards or intended to superceed them. IGDF membership is assessed against the IGDF Standards and organisation are not expected to comply with this guidance.

For more information visit our website at http://www.igdf.org.uk or e-mail: enquiries@igdf.org.uk 


11 key elements to a successful guide dog organisation:

At first, it may seem that all you need to start a guide dog organisation are a reliable and suitable source of dogs, qualified staff and funding. However, operating a successful guide dog organisation involves a range of activities along with the capacity to work successfully with people and dogs. 

There are 11 key elements required to operate a viable, sustainable and successful guide dog service. Some elements must be in place immediately when an organisation starts, and other aspects can be set up as soon as practical in order to deliver a professional, sustainable and accountable service.  

  1. Governance and management
  2. Administration support services, record keeping systems and resources
  3. Fund raising and public relations – media and communications 
  4. Staff education and ongoing professional development 
  5. Source of dogs 
  6. Puppy raising programme 
  7. Kennel services and / or boarding facilities 
  8. Guide dog assessment and training 
  9. Client services – applicants, students and graduates 
  10. Veterinary care 
  11. Adoption / career change services 

Development journey towards IGDF membership for emerging guide dog organisations