New Support Program Available to Current and Next Generation of Seeing Eye Teams
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michelle Barlak
973-539-4425
mbarlak@seeingeye.org
September 28, 2026
MORRISTOWN, N.J. – The Seeing Eye is piloting a new Veterinary Financial Assistance Fund (VFAF) to support the cost of veterinary care for working Seeing Eye dogs. Through the new program, which will roll out in two phases in 2027, active Seeing Eye teams may apply for financial assistance to cover their dogs’ routine, chronic, and emergency veterinary expenses.
“Alongside the independence of our graduates, the health and welfare of every Seeing Eye dog is of paramount importance to us,” said Seeing Eye President and CEO Karen Leies. “The Veterinary Financial Assistance Fund will ensure Seeing Eye graduates have supplemental support to meet their dogs’ needs and can focus on working with their canine partners without worry.”
According to Consumer Price Index data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of veterinary services rose roughly 67% over the last decade, far outpacing general inflation.
The Seeing Eye conducted an in-depth analysis to establish a comprehensive understanding of its graduates’ veterinary care needs and costs; assessed various support options and created a clear roadmap for implementing a sustainable VFAF model.
“The Seeing Eye Board of Trustees has made it a strategic priority to remove economic barriers and ensure guide dog partnerships remain accessible as everyone faces rising costs for veterinary care,” said Seeing Eye Board of Trustees Chair Michael H. Mittelman. “The new fund is designed so that no handler has to weigh their dog’s health against their household budget.”
Beginning Jan. 1, The Seeing Eye will provide assistance of up to $750 USD for routine and chronic care for individuals who meet need-based criteria. Assistance for routine and chronic veterinary care includes but is not limited to annual physical exams, vaccines, and parasite screening and prevention, and will be available to support active Seeing Eye dogs’ long-term health. Starting in July, all Seeing Eye graduates may receive up to $5000 USD in assistance for approved emergency veterinary care.
With the addition of the VFAF, The Seeing Eye’s veterinary costs will nearly reach $5 million annually. The Seeing Eye receives no government funding and 100% of its costs are covered by private donations. A campaign is currently underway to support this essential work. For more information, visit seeingeye.org/vfaf
Established in 1929, The Seeing Eye provides specially bred and trained dogs to guide people who are blind or low vision. Seeing Eye dog handlers experience greatly enhanced mobility and independence, allowing them to retain their active lifestyles. The Seeing Eye is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, bequests, and other planned gifts.
The Seeing Eye is a trademarked name and can only be used to describe the dogs bred and trained at the school’s facilities in Morristown, N.J. If you would like more information on The Seeing Eye, please visit the website at www.SeeingEye.org, call 973-539-4425, or email info@seeingeye.org.
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