Final answer:
The Seeing Eye dogs undergo initial socialization with a foster family, followed by four months of intensive training and a final exam where they navigate New York City. Success rate is about 75%, after which they are matched with an owner for further partnership development. This proves the high standard of training in comparison to emotional support dogs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Training at The Seeing Eye starts with a puppy living with a foster family to learn basic behavior and socialization. Between 13 and 19 months old, the dog receives four months of intensive training with an individual instructor on campus. This period culminates in a final exam where the dog must navigate New York City with the instructor. About 75 percent pass and are matched with a blind or visually impaired person. The owner then works with the dog and instructor for an additional 25 days before taking the well-trained service dog home.
Post-training, the owner's ongoing reinforcement is crucial, and The Seeing Eye provides telephone support and home visits as needed. Contrast this with emotional support dogs, which may not meet the minimal standard of training required by airlines, underscoring the thoroughness and credibility of certified Seeing Eye dogs in comparison.