Introduction: In spite of the vast amount of literature on pet therapy and dog companionship, limited studies exist on older adults with vision loss and the experience of owning a dog guide. The purpose of this study is to explore the facilitators and barriers of first-time ownership and utilization of a dog guide as experienced by older adults with vision loss. Methods: Data were gathered among seven participants using open-ended semistructured telephone interviews. Participants described their experiences related to owning a dog guide. Using phenomenological analysis, themes were extracted from verbatim transcriptions. Results: Through constant comparison methods, five themes emerged: increased responsibilities for new dog guide owners, changes in habits and routines, quick human–dog guide bonding, increase in community integration, and enhancement of autonomy through dog guide ownership. Discussion: The study results suggest that obtaining a dog guide increased the older adults with vision loss everyday engagement in community activities. The increased confidence in independent mobility may have led participants to engage in activities in unfamiliar environments, thus improving their autonomy, self-esteem, and physical abilities. These changes resulted in increased feelings of independence and freedom for the older adults with vision loss. Participants also revealed positive changes in their daily habits. Due to the increased physical ability and motivation needed to complete activities, making adjustments to owning a dog guide became easier. Furthermore, a human–dog guide bond was prevalent among all seven participants. Implications for practitioners: Themes extracted provide health practitioners and dog guide organizations insight into how owning dog guides may empower older adults with vision loss.

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We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to everyone who has helped us in completing our research study. Ms. Theresa Stern from Guide Dogs for the Blind, thank you for taking the time and effort in recruiting our participants. To the participants, thank you for sharing not only your time, but your story and journey thus far. We would like to also thank our research assistants as well as the California Foundation of Occupational Therapy, who partially funded our research. Lastly, we want to thank Dr. Kitsum Li and Dr. Laura Hess for their endless support and guidance for our capstone and Dr. Karen McCarthy for being our second reader. You helped us evolve as researchers and future occupational therapists. For that, we are extremely grateful.