Skip to content
Ohio 211 home page

Deaf-Blind Guide Dog Program | Leader Dogs For The Blind

1039 South Rochester Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48307

Not Applicable.
Eligibility
Serves individuals age 16 and over who both are legally blind and hearing impaired and meet the following criteria:
  • Must use American Sign Language (ASL).
  • Must have good mental and physical health, including the ability to walk several blocks without jeopardizing any current medical conditions.
  • Must demonstrate a proper method of crossing a street including the use of message cards, taped message device, human assistance or remaining functional vision.
  • Have successfully completed a basic course in orientation and mobility (white cane training).
Required documents
Complete application including personal references, consent to release information form, medical history form, vision evaluation form, video and photography release, waiver release form, and a short video demonstrating the applicant's independent travel skills.
Hours
  • Same as site hours.
  • Once completed application is received, the review process typically takes 30 to 60 days. If approved for a program, assignment to a class usually takes an additional 30 to 90 days.
  • Call for details regarding next available 3-week residential training program.
Languages
Communication method is American Sign Language (ASL), either visual or tactile, depending on client needs.
Application process
Call the office or visit the website for more information. Clients may speak with a guide dog mobility instructor via videophone by emailing their appointment request to [email protected]. Please put “Videophone Appointment Request” in the subject line. To apply for a guide dog, complete online application or visit the website to download an application to complete and mail in.
Fees
No fee including guide dog, equipment, room and board during residential training program, and transportation to and from the residential training program.
Service area
Carroll County, Ohio Summit County, Ohio Tuscarawas County, Ohio Jefferson County, Ohio Portage County, Ohio Harrison County, Ohio Medina County, Ohio Stark County, Ohio Lorain County, Ohio
Provides dogs trained to assist individuals who have both visual and hearing impairments. Dogs trained for these individuals recognized and respond to hand signals and American Sign Language (ASL) with or without vocal support. The guide dogs have been trained to help individuals who have both visual impairments or blindness as well as a hearing impairment increase their mobility and independence and/or maximize their ability to communicate effectively.
Last assured
09/10/2025
What's Here
Service Animals
Providing organization
Leader Dogs For The Blind
Provides guide dogs and cane travel instruction for individuals with legal blindness.