SAN ANTONIO – Dogs are routinely called a man’s best friend, but at Guide Dogs of Texas their service dogs way more -- they are the “eyes” for many visually impaired Texans.
On average, it takes two years for a guide dog ready for service. At Guide Dogs of Texas the process starts much earlier. A selective breeding program and a dedicated group of puppy raisers who care for and socialize the dogs make sure they are well trained while they grow up.
To that end, KSAT 12 has been following the journey of its own Guide Dog of Texas, Gino.
Recently, Gino had an assessment done and is on track to take his big test in January of 2017.
Guide Dogs of Texas also said they intend to take part in Big Give SA this year.
"You can choose our organization and give as little as ten dollars and of no maximum. It's tax deductable, and city wide we set a goal of 20-thousand dollars," April Medellin, of Guide Dogs of Texas, said.
The Big Give SA is KSAT Community event that takes place on May 3. That day the Guide Dogs of Texas will be at several locations around town.
For more information you can visit Guidedogsoftexas.org.