Guide Dog Users Inc. Supporting Guide Dog Teams Since 1972

Introduction to GDUI

Guide Dog Users, Inc. is, first and foremost, an advocacy organization, assisting individual members with advice and useful contact information and advocating at both state and Federal levels on behalf of the guide-dog handling population. Our widely-praised, award-winning advocacy achievements are accomplished through legislative and judicial efforts as well as public education.

Many people know GDUI from its advocacy efforts on behalf of quarantine exemption for the state of Hawaii. Our advocacy efforts don't end with our landmark work in Hawaii though. GDUI helps individuals who face discrimination involving housing, employment, entry to public places and transportation. GDUI's many affiliates around the country work tirelessly to assure that guide dog handlers in their areas have equal access to taxi cabs, doctors' offices and restaurants with their guide dogs.

Members also educate Congress, state and local legislatures and government agencies about the role of guide dogs and other assistance animals. GDUI prides itself on its work with coalitions both inside and outside of the assistance animal movement to strengthen our rights.

Related pages:

• GDUI's History
• GDUI organizational documents
• GDUI Affiliates
• GDUI Membership benefits
• Donations

GDUI organizational documents

GDUI provides the following documents online to promote its democratic structure:

• Constitution of Guide Dog Users, Inc.
• GDUI Board Meeting Minutes
• GDUI Conventions

GDUI Affiliates

Guide dog Users, Inc. prides itself on its ability to network and solve problems at the local as well as national level. Working hard at the state and regional level are the GDUI Affiliates. This page is dedicated to them and all of the people who work tirelessly on their behalf. If you would like more information about any of the affiliates listed, please contact them directly. If you are interested in starting a GDUI affiliate in your area, our Affiliate Liaison, Debbie Grubb, can help.

Each year at our national convention we hold an Affiliate Meeting where representatives can exchange ideas, and discuss new projects. This meeting is open to anyone interested in our affiliates. We hope you will check us out at the next GDUI national convention.

Contact GDUI's Affiliate Liaison

Affiliate Presidents & Points of Contact

• Guide Dog Users of Arizona
• Guide Dog Users of California
• Guide Dog Users of Florida
• Georgia Guide Dog Users
• Guide Dog Users of Kentucky
• Maine Pine Tree Guide Dog Users
• Maryland Area Guide Dog Users, Inc.
• Guide Dog Users of Massachusetts
• Garden State Guide Dog Users (New Jersey)
• Guide Dog Users of New York
• Buckeye State Guide Dog Users (Ohio)
• Guide Dog Users of Oregon
• Dixie Land Guide Dog Users (South Carolina)
• Guide Dog Users of Texas
• Guide Dog Users of Washington State
   

Guide Dog Users of Arizona
www.gdua.org

President/Point of Contact:
Terri Hedgpeth
4228 E bighorn Ave.
Phoenix, AZ  85044-6729
480-727-8133
terrih@asu.edu
Twitter.com/gduaz
 

Guide Dog Users of California

President/Point of Contact:
Mary Beth Randall
4733 N. Cedar Ave., #110
Fresno, CA  93726-1009
559-224-7999
Creature_girl@comcast.net
 

Guide Dog Users of Florida
www.fcb.org/gduf.htm

President/Point of Contact:
Doug Hall
1405 Edgewater Rd.
Daytona Beach, FL  32114-5859
386-255-0377
flhalls@earthlink.net

Georgia Guide Dog Users
georgiaguidedogusers.org

President/Point of Contact:
Marj Schneider
212 Oxford Dr.
Savannah, GA  31405-5427
912-352-1415
marjschneider@bellsouth.net
 

Guide Dog Users of Kentucky

President/Point of Contact:
Deb Lewis
107 Fenley Ave., A10
Louisville, KY  40207-2505
H502-721-9129
kentucky@gdui.org
 

Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (Maine)
ellsworthme.org/pinetree

President/Point of Contact:
Pauline M. LaMontagne
154 Sewall St.
Augusta, ME  04330
207-626-3332
Nera2@myfairpoint.net
 

Maryland Area Guide Dog Users, Inc.
www.magdu.org

President/Point of Contact:
Cecilia Warren
1445 Jordan Ave.
Crofton, MD  21114
H410-721-3364
C410-608-7059
Cw413@comcast.net
 

Guide Dog Users of Massachusetts
www.acb.org/mailman/listinfo/gdum-l

President/Point of Contact:
Carl Richardson
110 Foster Terrace
Brighton, MA  02135-3940
617-254-0425
carl@carl-richardson.com

Garden State Guide Dog Users
www.njcounciloftheblind.org/gsgdu

President/Point of Contact:
Lauren Casey
153 Franklin Corner Rd.
Lawrenceville, NJ  08648
609-912-0657
lrcasey1@verizon.net

Guide Dog Users of New York
www.aeonaccess.com/gduny

President/Point of Contact:
Audrey Schading
636 N. Terrace Ave., #2B
Mount Vernon, NY  10552-2716
H914-667-1816
C917-971-8659
Audrey615@verizon.net
 

Buckeye State Guide Dog Users (Ohio)

President/Point of Contact:
Sandy Wilbur
3208 Queen City Ave.
cincinnati, OH  45238-2313
H513-931-2824
Sandywilbur.1@gmail.com

Guide Dog Users of Oregon

President/Point of Contact:
Bill Mlynarski
14761 S.W. Beard Rd., #202
Beaverton, OR  97007-8137
H503-509-3286
C503-523-7351
Big_bad_bill@comcast.net

Dixie Land Guide Dog Users (South Carolina)
www.dixielandguides.org

President/Point of Contact:
Audrey Gunter
802 Castle Ave.
Charleston, SC  29407-5806
H843-571-0737
C843-810-3777
Retired51837@msn.com

Guide Dog Users of Texas

President/Point of Contact:
Cindy Finley
4831 52nd St.
Lubbock, TX  79414-3701
806-795-0216
cpfinley@sbcglobal.net

Guide Dog Users of Washington State
www.gduws.net

President/Point of Contact:
Debby Phillips
1375 Aladdin Rd.
Colville, WA  99114-9103
H509-684-1266
C509-690-4624
semisweetdebby@gmail.com

GDUI's History

In 1972 a group of blind people associated with the American Council of the Blind decided to form a special interest affiliate chapter devoted to the use of guide dogs. Guide Dog Users Inc. (GDUI) began as a grass-roots organization with an emphasis on peer support. Over Thirty years and 600+ members later, we can't all fit around the kitchen table anymore, but GDUI's members continue to value the sense of community, passion and personal dedication behind everything the organization undertakes.

GDUI is a registered 501C3 not-for-profit organization incorporated in Washington DC. We receive no government funding. While the organization does benefit from the support of the American Council of the blind, the majority of its services, projects and activities are funded through membership dues, profits from product sales and tax-deductible donations and bequests from generous individuals.

GDUI is governed through a constitution and bylaws adopted by its membership. Amendments are developed by the Constitution and Bylaws Committee and voted upon each year at the annual general business meeting.

Many of those who generously donate their time and skills to GDUI do so in their "spare time" in addition to pursuing demanding careers, contributing to their home communities and living active personal and family lives.

Former President George Bush Sr. took part in the 30th Anniversary Luncheon of Guide Dog Users, Inc. via video-taped comments. Listen to Former President Bush Senior's remarks

Constitution of Guide Dog Users, Inc.

• ARTICLE I. Name
• ARTICLE II. Purposes
• ARTICLE III. Individual & Affiliate Membership and Voting
• ARTICLE IV. Officers and Directors
• ARTICLE V. Meetings
• ARTICLE VI. Committees
• ARTICLE VII. Fiscal Year
• ARTICLE VIII. Finances
• ARTICLE IX. Removal of Officers, Directors, and Appointees
• ARTICLE X. Amendment
• ARTICLE XI. Parliamentary and Procedural Protocol
• ARTICLE XII. Corporation Dissolution
• Proviso

ARTICLE I. Name

1. The name of this organization shall be Guide Dog Users, Inc., hereinafter to be known as GDUI.
2. The name of Guide Dog Users, Inc. shall not be used by any person or organization without the expressed written consent of the President and/or the Board of Directors of GDUI.

ARTICLE II. Purposes

The purposes of this organization, in addition to those stated in the Articles of Incorporation, shall be:

1. To promote the acceptance of guide dog teams by all agencies, employers, educational institutions, commercial establishments, and the general public.
2. To work for the expansion, standardization, and enforcement of legal provisions, both civil and criminal, governing the rights and responsibilities in the areas of public access, employment, housing, personal injury to dog and handler, transportation, and recreation.
3. To work in cooperation with guide dog training providers in contributing input in the areas of selection, training, health care, and accommodations for both canine and human students, and to provide constructive input to improve the quality of the training experience.

ARTICLE III. Individual & Affiliate Membership and Voting

1. Any person sixteen (16) years of age or older may become a member of GDUI.
2. The majority of GDUI members shall be guide dog users.
3. All members in good standing (dues current and no unresolved charges) shall have the right to cast his/her vote at any meeting of the membership which may include any properly called telephonic election or election by other electronic means. (Refer to Article V Meetings, Section C. for properly called meetings). There shall be no proxy voting.
4. All affiliates of GDUI shall be organized in accordance with the following requirements:
   1. Any organization making application for affiliate status shall have no fewer than seven (7) members, the majority of whom shall be guide dog users. Each affiliate organization shall maintain a majority of members who are users of guide dogs. Any affiliate failing to maintain a membership of at least seven (7) members for three (3) consecutive years shall be subject to dismissal from GDUI according to the procedures stated in ARTICLE III, F. 2, below.
   2. The organization making application for affiliation shall submit its constitution and bylaws for review and approval by the GDUI Board of Directors.
   3. There shall be no conflict between the constitution and/or bylaws of any organization applying for affiliation and the constitution of GDUI.
   4. Applicants for affiliation shall be approved by a majority vote of the voting members of the Board of Directors.
   5. All affiliates shall be responsible for paying the required dues per affiliate member to GDUI on an annual basis. Failure to submit the required dues in a timely manner may, by direction of the Board of Directors, forfeit voting privileges for the affiliate and the members of the affiliate.
   6. Each GDUI affiliate shall, on an annual basis, submit its dues along with an updated roster of members, a copy of its constitution and/or bylaws (as amended), and a current list of officers and directors to the Treasurer on or before the 15th of February, unless the affiliate requests and is granted an extension by the President.
5. Affiliate Voting:
   1. Affiliate voting shall be limited to caucuses and other activities authorized by the Board of Directors, with the exception that the membership at a properly called meeting, may, by majority vote of those present and voting, call for a roll call vote on a specific matter of business. When affiliate voting is authorized, each affiliate shall be entitled to one (1) affiliate vote in any annual or special meeting of the membership or properly called telephonic or electronic election/meeting for each seven (7) affiliate members, or major fraction thereof; however, no affiliate may have more than twenty-five (25) affiliate votes.
   2. Each affiliate shall select a delegate who shall cast the affiliate's vote.
   3. Should the membership of an affiliate drop below seven (7) members, that affiliate shall be entitled to one (1) affiliate vote and be subject to the conditions specified in Section D. 1. of this article.
   4. To insure that its affiliate vote is cast in an equitable manner when conducting ACB business, GDUI shall conduct a caucus at each annual convention at which time the delegates will record the vote of GDUI members and affiliate representatives present in conformity with the provisions of this section. Individual affiliate members shall be members of GDUI by virtue of their affiliate membership and shall possess all rights incidental thereto.
6. Dissolution and Dismissal of Affiliates:
   1. In the event of the dissolution of an affiliate, the president or other presiding officer of the dissolved affiliate shall, as soon as possible after the membership has voted to dissolve, notify the President and Treasurer of GDUI, in writing, of the dissolution of the affiliate.
   2. An affiliate failing to comply with the requirements specified in Article III. D. 5. of this constitution for a period of three (3) consecutive years without appropriate justification, shall be deemed to have relinquished its status as an affiliate, and shall, after due notice and an opportunity to appear and defend itself, be removed from the roster of affiliates upon the majority vote of the voting members of the Board of Directors.
7. Telephonic voting and any other electronic means of voting which has been proven successful may be used for elections, amendments to the constitution, and any other issues authorized by the Board of Directors. A majority vote of those participating in such voting shall decide elections and any other issues allowed by this means of voting, unless a two-thirds vote of those present and voting is specified by this constitution. In any election, where there are more than two (2) candidates for the same office, and no candidate receives a majority of the votes cast, a runoff election shall be held between the top two candidates.
8. May shall be the month of the annual election unless otherwise rescheduled by the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE IV. Officers and Directors

1. The officers of GDUI shall be the President, the First Vice-President, the Second Vice-President, the Secretary, and the Treasurer.
2. The President, First Vice-President, and Second Vice-President shall be elected for terms of two (2) years and shall not be eligible to serve for more than two (2) consecutive terms in the same office.
3. The Secretary and Treasurer shall be elected for terms of two (2) years and there shall be no term limits.
4. All elected or appointed members shall perform the duties of their offices, directorships, or appointed positions as prescribed by the Board of Directors, this constitution, Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised, or any other document to which they may be subject.
5. GDUI shall elect six (6) directors with two (2) directors being elected annually for terms of three (3) years, thereby creating staggered terms. No member shall be eligible to serve for more than two (2) full terms as a director.
6. There shall be no more than three (3) elected members of the Board of Directors from the same state, District, or possession.
7. The officers, directors, immediate past President, and the three (3) additional members who are elected or appointed to the Board shall constitute the Board of Directors and shall be the governing body of GDUI between meetings of the membership. During meetings of the Board of Directors the Board members may cast votes in person, by mail, or telephone or other electronic means that have been proven successful. A majority vote of the voting members of the Board of Directors shall decide matters of business during such meetings unless a two-thirds (2/3) vote is required by this constitution or any other document to which the Board is subject. The Board of Directors shall not take any official action or make any decision that is in conflict with any prior action or decision of the membership.
8. The immediate past President shall have full voting privileges and shall serve until there is another immediate past President.
9. There shall be three (3) additional positions on the Board of Directors, two (2) of which are appointed by the President, and one (1) of which is elected by the Board of Directors. The two appointed positions are the Affiliate Liaison and the Guide Dog School Liaison, and the elected position shall be the Editor of Paw Tracks. These additional appointees shall serve as ex-officio members of the Board but without a vote. The additional two (2) appointed Board members shall be limited to serving the same terms as directors unless an extension of service is requested and granted by a majority vote of the voting members of the Board. The member elected to the Board position of Paw Tracks editor shall serve unlimited terms unless requested to be removed or is removed from that position by the procedures specified in Article IX. REMOVAL OF OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, AND APPOINTEES.
10. All elected officers, directors, and appointed Board members shall serve in no more than one (1) Board position at a time while serving on the GDUI Board of Directors.
11. Any member who serves less than half of the term provided for an office, directorship, or appointed position shall not have that portion of a term counted as a term served. The term of service for all officers, directors, or appointees shall begin at the close of the annual GDUI convention in the year of election and shall end at the close of the annual GDUI convention in the year that elects and qualifies their successors.
12. A vacancy in the office of President shall be filled by the First Vice-President. The Second Vice-President shall become the First Vice-President. The new President may appoint, with approval by majority vote of the voting members of the Board of Directors, a qualified member to fill the vacancy and serve the remainder of the vacated term in the office of Second Vice-President. Otherwise, an election, at a time, place, and procedure decided by the Board, will be held to elect a new Director. Unless otherwise specified in this constitution, all other vacancies in officers, directors, or appointed positions shall be filled by appointment by the president with the approval of a majority vote of the voting members of the Board of Directors. Such appointees shall serve the remainder of the terms vacated.
13. The President, First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, and a majority of the Board of Directors shall be guide dog users.

ARTICLE V. Meetings

1. GDUI shall meet in convention annually in conjunction with the annual convention of the American Council of the Blind to conduct business, engage in educational and recreational activities, and participate in the various activities of the annual convention of the American Council of the Blind. The use of telephonic voting or other electronic voting may be incorporated during or after the annual convention or at any other properly called meeting where a quorum is present or may become present. Such other meetings include special meetings, telephonic or other meetings by electronic means, or the May election. The President may call meetings of the membership upon a majority vote of the voting members of the Board of Directors. In the event of an emergency, the Board of Directors, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the voting members of the Board, may call a special meeting of the membership and proper notice, as required for the annual convention and any other meetings of the membership, shall be waived for the calling of meetings due to emergencies.
2. Quorum Requirements: For purposes of voting at the annual business meeting, a majority of the members present and voting shall constitute a quorum. A majority of the voting members of the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum of that body. A quorum for voting by telephonic or other electronic means shall be twenty (20) percent of the total membership of GDUI, with each member participating in the election being counted as present for quorum purposes. A quorum shall be maintained throughout each meeting of a committee, the membership, or Board of Directors in order to conduct business.
3. A properly called meeting of the membership of GDUI, including telephonic and other electronic elections/meetings, shall be one that is noticed to all members by written or printed means, giving the place, date, and hour of the meeting and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called. Such notice shall be delivered to each member eligible to vote in person or by mail using the United States Postal Service. The call of the meeting may be by or at the direction of the President, or the Secretary, or the Board of Directors. Notice of meetings shall be transmitted to the membership not less than 10 or more than 50 days before the date of the meeting.

ARTICLE VI. Committees

In addition to the committees listed below, the membership or the Board of Directors may establish such other standing, special, or ad hoc committees as needed to carry out the purposes of GDUI.

1. Membership: The membership of each committee shall consist of the number of members necessary to serve GDUI effectively. The President, with the approval of the Board of Directors, shall appoint as Chairpersons members in good standing who possess those qualities and experience needed to carry out the purpose(s) of the committee to which appointed. The President shall, by appointment, fill vacancies that may occur in the chair of committees. The Chairperson of each committee shall appoint qualified members to serve on his/her committee and to fill vacancies within his/her committee. The President shall be ex-officio of all committees except the nominating committee.
2. Terms of Service: The Chairperson of each committee shall be limited to serving for two (2) consecutive terms of (2) years as chairperson of the same committee. Serving for less than half of the stated term shall not count as a term served. Committee members may serve unlimited terms.
3. Reporting: Each committee shall report to the Board of Directors, to the assembly at annual meetings, and/or through publications of GDUI, on a needs basis or as directed by the President or Board of Directors.
4. Meetings: The President, the Chairperson, or a majority of committee members may call meetings of a committee. A majority vote of all members present and voting at a committee meeting where a quorum is present, shall decide matters of business. Such meetings may be by teleconferencing or other electronic means and in person with a majority of its members constituting a quorum.
5. List of Committees and Duties: The goals, duties, responsibilities, and requirements of all committees shall be developed by each committee, directed by the Board of Directors, stated in this constitution, or by the membership in convention assembled. Once developed, these goals, duties, requirements, and responsibilities should be published as a set of standing rules for each committee or added to this constitution by way of amendments to the appropriate committee.
6. Committees
   1. Advocacy
   2. Budget/Finance
   3. Constitution/Resolutions
   4. Fund Raising
   5. Legislative
   6. Membership
   7. Nominating
   8. Program
   9. Publication
   10. Public Relations
   11. Products
   12. Special Concerns

ARTICLE VII. Fiscal Year

1. The fiscal year of GDUI shall run from January 1, through December 31.
2. Dues, memberships and other requirements for affiliation with the American Council of the Blind shall be adhered to by GDUI and its members.
3. The amount of dues for at large or lifetime members shall be set by the board of directors. When changed, such dues and payment requirements shall be adequately publicized to the members by whatever means decided by the board.

ARTICLE VIII. Finances

1. Receipts and Disbursements: All funds, except those with specific instructions, received by GDUI from dues and other sources shall be paid into a general fund, and all disbursements from the general fund must have the approval of the Board of Directors, unless such disbursements are authorized by way of the annual budget of GDUI. Disbursements that exceed any individual budget item limit must have prior approval of the Board of Directors with the exception of emergencies in which case the expenditure shall be submitted to the Board for ratification by a majority vote of the voting members of the Board.
2. Budget and Finance: The Budget and Finance Committee shall, at the beginning of each fiscal year, prepare and recommend to the Board of Directors a budget that addresses the financial needs of this organization, and shall supervise the financial activities related to that budget.
3. Review of Financial Records: The financial records of this organization shall be reviewed by a properly qualified certified public accountant selected by and at such times as the Board of Directors shall deem appropriate.

ARTICLE IX. Removal of Officers, Directors, and Appointees

1. Removal of Officers or Directors: Any elected officer or director may be removed from office for good and sufficient cause by a majority vote of those present and voting by the person(s) authorized to elect such officers or directors. Therefore, elected officers or directors of GDUI shall only be removed from office by a majority vote of the membership present and voting at a properly called membership meeting, after the officer or director has been given written notice of the charges against him/her and afforded an opportunity to appear before the Board and offer a defense to the charges. If the officer or director fails to adequately defend him or herself, the Board, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the voting members of the Board, shall recommend to the membership removal from office which may or may not include forfeiture of membership. The vote of the membership to uphold the recommendation of the Board shall be the same voting body that elected the officer or director.
2. Any appointed Officer or Director or other appointee may be removed for just cause by the person making the original appointment or by the body making the original appointment upon a majority vote of those present and voting at a properly called meeting of that body.
3. Causes for removal of officers, directors, and appointees shall include, but not be limited to:
   1. Being absent from three (3) consecutive meetings of the Board of Directors without just cause as determined by majority vote of the remaining voting members of the Board.
   2. Failure to pay dues or otherwise comply with membership requirements.
   3. Failure to perform the duties of office as prescribed by this constitution.
   4. Performing the duties of office in a manner detrimental to the aims and purposes of GDUI.
   5. Personal conduct that brings discredit upon GDUI.
   6. Conviction of a felony.
4. Unless otherwise specified in this constitution, vacancies in officers, directors, or appointed positions, shall be filled according to the procedures stated in ARTICLE IV. L. OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS.

ARTICLE X. Amendment

This constitution may be amended at the annual convention of GDUI, during the annual election in May, or at a special meeting properly called by the Board of Directors. The following procedures shall be followed.

1. Proposed Amendments: All proposed amendments must be submitted to the Constitution/Resolutions Committee at least ninety (90) days prior to the annual convention, annual election in May, or any other meeting at which the proposed amendments will be voted upon. The Constitution/Resolutions Committee, together with the proposer(s), may meet and jointly approve the final draft. Upon approval by the Constitution committee, amendments will be submitted to the Board of Directors for review, publication, and submission to the membership according to the procedures stated below. Any proposed changes brought about by Board of Directors review, must be mutually agreed upon by the Board and the Constitution/Resolutions Committee.
2. Notice: Proper notice of proposed amendments shall be provided to all members not less than forty five (45) days prior to the meeting at which the amendments will be voted upon and such notice shall be by mail using the U. S. Postal Service. Additional media may be by "Paw Tracks" and/or any electronic communication for informational purposes.
3. Vote Required: A two-thirds (2/3) vote of the eligible members present and voting shall be required to adopt proposed amendments. Voting shall be by telephonic or other electronic means, or other acceptable voting methods as determined by the Board of Directors or the eligible voting members present at the meeting. Adopted amendments go into effect immediately unless otherwise stated in the amendment or by way of a proviso attached to the amendment.

ARTICLE XI. Parliamentary and Procedural Protocol

The rules, requirements, and standard operating procedures stated in the constitution of GDUI, together with any written rules GDUI may adopt, shall govern the proceedings of GDUI in all cases to which they apply and do not conflict with any higher authority to which GDUI is subject. The most current edition of Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the official reference on parliamentary issues not adequately resolved by this constitution.

ARTICLE XII. Corporation Dissolution

1. GDUI is incorporated in the District of Columbia.
2. Upon dissolution, which shall require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the members present and voting at an annual convention or a special called meeting, GDUI shall be dissolved. Such dissolution shall follow Internal Revenue Regulations, applicable procedures established in the Articles of Incorporation, and any current Federal or State law(s) that apply to District of Columbia 501 (c) 3 not for profit corporations. An attorney should be engaged to advise GDUI should dissolution become necessary.

Proviso

The adoption of this revised constitution of GDUI replaces all other constitutions and/or bylaws heretofore adopted. The Secretary, or person or persons responsible for preparing this document for presentation, publication, or distribution is hereby authorized to make such technical, editorial, and/or conforming changes as may be necessary without in any way changing the intent of the original wording contained herein.

Adopted by telephonic vote of the Membership in May 2010.

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Guide Dog Users, Inc. (GDUI) is a non-profit support and advocacy organization, comprised primarily of blind people partnered with guide dogs. Guide dog trainers, puppy-raisers, family members and friends interested in guide dog issues are also welcome members of GDUI.

GDUI serves as a network, providing support to guide dog teams throughout the United States and around the world. We "lead the way" in educating the public about guide dogs and are actively involved in access issues. Through our Advocacy Department, we provide technical assistance and advice to guide dog handlers denied admittance to any public accommodation. 

GDUI makes available the specialty items in this catalog to benefit the guide dog and handler. Proceeds from the sale of these items help to continue the important work of our organization.

Items have been specially chosen for convenience, practical design, or as unique gifts for people who just love guide dogs. We hope you will find them interesting and useful. We look forward to your order.

We at Guide Dog Users, Inc. make every effort to fill all orders in a timely and efficient manner and pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

Our order processing center is located in the eastern time zone of the United States. Since GDUI has no paid staff at the present time, the best time to reach us in person is during weekday afternoons or evenings until 9 p.m. or on weekends. At all other times, you are likely to reach our password-protected voice-mail. Please feel free to leave us your order, or, if you'd prefer, your name and phone number, and we'll call you back. As the GDUI telephone numbers ring in private homes, please be mindful of any time zone differences when calling.

All orders must be pre-paid by check or money order, or via credit card. All checks must be in U.S. funds drawn on a U.S. bank. No merchandise will be shipped before receipt of payment.

To order, please provide GDUI with a listing of the items you are ordering, along with your name, address and phone number. Please remember to add the amount specified for shipping, as shown in the Shipping and Handling Chart. All checks must be made payable to GDUI.

Credit Card Orders: We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover. To place a credit card order, please call toll-free: 1-866-799-8436 option 1 to speak with our office manager.  The minimum amount for credit card orders is $10.00.

When ordering via credit card, please provide us with your name (as it appears on the card), your shipping address, daytime and evening phone numbers (with area code), your credit card number and the card's expiration date as well as the 3-digit security code on the back of the card.  (If the billing address for the card is different from the shipping address, please give us both addresses, as this is necessary for credit card address/owner verification). Orders are usually shipped within two weeks of receipt.

Only complete orders are shipped. If shipment is delayed for more than two weeks, we will notify you.

Store Items

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Leash Rack

Ever wonder what to do with all those leashes that seem to accumulate on your doorknobs? Well, here's the perfect answer. These pine wood leash racks, made by an accomplished woodworker, contain five pegs to hang leashes, harnesses, coats, etc. Above the pegs is GDUI's logo, with the letters "GDUI" in raised letters, as well as two cup hooks for hanging keys or other small items. The large rack is 23.5 inches long, and the small one is 15 inches long.

For an additional $10.00, personalize your leash rack by having your dog's picture instead of the GDUI logo, and/or your dog's name in raised letters instead of the letters "GDUI".

Small Leash Rack: $40.00
Small Personalized Leash Rack: $50.00

Large Leash Rack: $45.00
Large Personalized Leash Rack: $55.00
 

Select one:

Small Leash Rack $40.00Small Personalized Leash Rack $50.00Large Leash Rack $45.00Large Personalized Leash Rack $55.00

GDUI 30th Anniversary CD "Harness in Hand"

Guide Dog Users, Inc. is proud to present "Thirty Years Harness In Hand," a collection of original music and poetry written and performed exclusively by guide dog handlers. These heartfelt tributes to guide dogs and fascinating audio snapshots of the magical bond that exists in working teams will make you laugh and cry, making this one of a kind collection a must have for anyone who loves dogs. This special project features "Harness In Hand", a tribute to working teams written and performed by Sheila Styron commemorating GDUI's thirtieth anniversary. Proceeds will help support GDUI's legislative and advocacy activities undertaken on behalf of working teams.

"Harness in Hand" CD: $15.00
 

Please consider making a donation of any amount to Guide Dog Users, Inc.

About Guide Dog Users Inc.

• Introduction to Guide Dog Users Inc. Our mission and what we do.
• Guide Dog Users Inc.'s History Our growth as a non-profit grassroots organization beginning in 1972. Also includes kind words from George Bush Senior.
• Officers & Directors Contact Information A directory of GDUI leaders and committees
• Constitution of Guide Dog Users, Inc.
• GDUI Affiliates Contact information for regional guide dog user groups in the USA.
• The Coalition of Assistance Dog Organizations (CADO) Explains the need for creating such a coalition: clarifying the role of service animals to legislators & the general public.
• GDUI Organizational Documents containing links to GDUI's constitution, meeting minutes, and annual convention/ general session.
• Email Listservs learn about and sign up for GDUI-Leaders and GDUI-Friends.
• GDUI Latest News Upcoming events, new information, etc.

Thank You

Thank you for your purchase from our store!

Proceeds help support GDUI.

Email Listservs

GDUI-Leaders

GDUI-Leaders is a list created by Guide Dog Users, Inc. to provide a forum for its leadership.
Members of this list should hold a current, working, leadership role within GDUI or one of its affiliates.  List traffic is typically very low on this list, so that the time-constraints of list members can be respected.

GDUI-Leaders list members must be approved by the list moderators.  This list is for:

• GDUI-Board members,
• GDUI-Affiliate-Board members,
• current members of GDUI standing committees.
   

GDUI-Friends

Anyone not currently occupying at least one of the above-mentioned roles is invited to join GDUI-Friends, also a yahoo group.  (Members who serve in leadership roles are also encouraged to join GDUI-Friends if they have available time for that.)

To subscribe to GDUI-Friends, a list intended for conversation and discussion of guide dog related (and guide dog handler related) topics, please send a message to: gdui-friends-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

GDUI Convention 2010

Sheraton Downtown
Phoenix, Arizona

The GDUI Suite will be open from Sunday afternoon, July 11 until Wednesday, July 14. The hours of operation are Sunday Noon-5PM, Monday and Tuesday 9AM-5PM, and Wednesday 9-11AM. Browse the silent auction items on display.  Bid on items until Tuesday afternoon at 4PM. Dog-related products and bottled water will be on sale, and guide dogs and their handlers can relax in the suite.  A vet tech will have limited hours to assist with nail trimming and ear cleaning. Schedule dog massages, too (morning hours only). Be certain to pack your dog booties to protect your guide’s paws. The Arizona heat scorches outdoor surfaces resulting in painful burns to unprotected pads.

SUNDAY, JULY 11

GDUI Suite Open 12 PM- 5 PM

• 12:00 PM Hotel and area orientation. Your favorite guide dog instructors teach you how to teach your dog the best convention routes; guaranteed to get you where you need to be on time and in one piece.
• 2:30 PM Affiliate Roundup –This meeting is REQUIRED for affiliate representatives.
• 4:00 PM Board Meeting
• 5:00 PM Hotel and area orientation

MONDAY, JULY 12

GDUI Suite Open 9 AM- 5 PM

• 7:00 AM GDUI Breakfast Club. Visit a nearby restaurant for a delicious fast break from the hotel. Be back just in time for general session. Breakfast Club is an official GDUI option Monday through Wednesday; canine teams and cane travelers welcome. We will be walking to Steve’s Grill, which is about 10 minutes from the hotel.
• 1:30 PM GDUI Opening Ceremonies
• 2:00 PM Doormats No More: Leveraging security technologies to live an empowered and independent life. Do you use public transportation? Live in a major metro area? Ever wonder how to respond to a safety threat? Get empowered with solutions! Learn about effective security products, how to use them, and where they can be purchased. Tracey Hawkins, security and safety expert, also features accessible safety and security products for the blind and visually impaired.
• 3:30 PM Retire, rehab, retrain: Solutions from the guide dog schools. How do schools modify their practices to accommodate students’ with learning differences? What’s the criteria to rehabilitate a guide dog post-incident? A panel of training experts answers three questions about contemporary issues.
• 7:00 PM Blessing of the Guide Dogs and Ice Cream Social. A half block walk to St. Mary’s Basilica to receive a private tour and blessing of our guide dogs. The Basilica is on the National Historic Register, and is the oldest basilica in Arizona. Afterwards, stay for the Cold Stone Creamery ice cream social.

TUESDAY, JULY 13

GDUI Suite Open 9 AM- 5 PM

• 7:00 AM GDUI Breakfast Club
• 1:30 PM Pets and Debts: Is pet health insurance a viable tool for you? The global financial crisis has raised awareness of cost containment and personal budgets. One guide dog medical emergency can easily cost thousands of dollars. Dr. Karen Felsted, executive director of the National Commission of Veterinary Economic Issues is both a CPA and veterinarian. She advises emergency vet practices on valued services and efficiencies. Dr. Felsted will help you decide if pet health insurance is a sensible choice. No sales pitch, just smart guidance.
• 3:30 PM GDUI Business Meeting
• 4:00 PM GDUI Silent Auction Bidding Closes
• 7:00 PM Juno Poker Run

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14

GDUI Suite 9 AM- 11 AM

• 7:00 AM GDUI Breakfast Club
• 12:30 PM GDUI Luncheon and live auction
• 3:45 PM ACB Caucus
• 7:00 PM In It to Win It. Get your game on and ramp up the fun factor! Fun and original games let you compete for prizes, biscuits, and gourmet dog treats in this original interactive game.