Leader dogs topic of Lions Club meeting

The Groesbeck Lions Club will be hosting Sandy Griffin, Texas Lions leader dog chairman, and Ivy Green, leader dogin training, at the Wednesday, Dec. 2, meeting. The Lions meet at Mi Rancho Restaurant, 301 W. Yeagua, at noon.

The Leader Dog program was founded in Rochester, Mich., in 1939 to provided independence for the visually impaired. The program is supported by Lions Clubs International, and more than 13,000 leader dogs have been placed since 1939.

The main focus of the leader dog program is to provide welltrained dog guides for individuals who are visually impaired, at least 16 years old, and physically and mentally capable to care for and use the dog. Recipients complete a 26-day training program that includes country, city and nighttime travel, how to incorporate the leader dog into a daily routine, and dog care knowledge.

Expanded programs can enhance a person’s independence and quality of life. The Deaf- Blind Program provides training for individuals hearing and visually impaired. The Accelerated Mobility Program teaches advanced orientation and mobility skills to cane travelers. The Trekker Training utilizes a global positioning system (GPS). Basic and Advanced Computer training teaches the use of assistive technologies to enhance employment opportunities. Other services also are available.

Interested individuals are welcome to attend. Please RSVP to Jan Bohls at (254) 587-2259.