Gift Ideas for Future Service Dog Handlers
In this month's post I thought I would make a special gift guide for those going into class early in the new year to receive their first or successor dogs.
Eve sitting in front of a large Christmas tree.
Dog Leash Holder, Cast Iron, Antique Bronze, 2 Hooks, Wall Mount, 6.9x6.9x1.8 inches, AR001 Leash hangers like this one would be a great gift for a friend or family member that may be going into class to receive their first guide dog or looking to change up their organization with a successor dog.
Leash hook with guide dog harness and leashes.
Guide dog leash: After getting accepted to a guide dog program of choice it may be worth putting a leash from that particular program on your list, so when you come home with your new dog you have a backup leash to use if necessary down the line.
Gift cards: As you are preparing to go into guide dog school you may want to request gift cards from merchants like Amazon, PetSmart, PetCo, Chewy, and Ruffware to help in purchasing items that you may have forgotten, or ones that your friends or family members may not know what to get.
Stuffed animal: A stuffed animal from the school you applied to or from Two Blind Brothers may be a fun way to announce that you have arrived on the guide dog school’s campus to receive your first or successor dog on social media. I say this because depending on where you choose to receive your first or successor dog will vary as to when you can publicly announce which dog you have received.
Two Blind Brothers stuffed dog Beacon.
Poop bags: A great gift to have on your list while waiting to go into class is poop bags as they will come in handy no matter where you are.
Gamma2 Vittles Vault Stackable Dog Food Storage Container With Airtight Lid - Fits up to 60 Pounds of Dry Pet Food - For Bulk Cat Kibble Use - BPA-Free Plastic - Made in the USA - 14.5" L x 19" H: Having a dry sealable place to keep your dogs food will be an important consideration to make. The linked container is the one I personally use and has worked well for over two years.
Dog food container.
Elevated Dog Food and Water Bowls for Small Size Dogs and Cats - Adjustable Raised Dog Bowl with Stand, Durable Bamboo Dog Feeder with 2 Stainless Steel Bowls and Non-Slip Feet I know that some guide dog programs give their students dog bowls in addition to other items upon graduation, while others may not. If you receive your dog from one of the programs that may not provide dog bowls this one may be a great option.
Dog towel: Having a dog towel similar to this one may be a good thing to request before getting a dog as they will not only come in handy after a bath, but also after a walk in the rain or snow.
Good walking shoes: If you are in need of good walking shoes it may be a good idea to ask for them for the holidays before going into class, so you have time to break them in for the miles of walking you will do while in class.
Comfy clothes: No matter which program you chose to go to or the time of year you find yourself embarking on this journey, having comfy clothes will be important. One way to ensure you have what you need may be worth asking for a few pieces of clothing for the occasion.
