About Us

Maryland Area Guide Dog Users, Inc. is a member organization of Guide Dog Users, Inc. We are an affiliate of the American Council of the Blind. The vision of MAGDUi is a world where all guide dog teams can enter places of employment, amusement, or public accommodation, without hearing the words, “That dog is not allowed in here.” That vision can be realized through education, advocacy, and outreach.

MAGDUi is a young and vibrant organization. The Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws were adopted in 2002. The group received its’ IRS non-profit charitable status in 2006.

Achievements in the areas of health, education, advocacy, training, and lobbying include:

Health- Obtaining an affordable veterinarian services national group benefit for members of our parent organization, GDUi. This helps guide dog users in finding affordable medical care for their canine partners.

Education- MAGDUi members provide presentations at schools, churches, and seminars. A new initiative with the Ronald McDonald House in Baltimore began in the Fall 2006.

Advocacy- MAGDUi advocates for the rights of guide dog users at the federal and state levels of government.

Legal- MAGDUi is a recognized 501C-3 charitable non-profit organization .

Lobbying- MAGDUi has drafted and lobbied for passage of legislation to protect guide dog teams from attack and theft. MAGDUi observes and publicly comments on legislation which impacts guide dog teams.

Training- MAGDUi provides training and developmental opportunities to its’ members. Seminars on current issues affecting guide dog teams are provided annually.

Outreach- MAGDUi is relationship building with agencies and organizations that impact the guide dog community. Alliances with county fire departments, emergency management planners, and state agricultural groups permit us to provide technical guidance in the development of policies that affect guide dog teams.