KNGF:Impact of assistance dogs

On the surface, providing an assistance dog may seem to affect only one person, but it is assumed that the dog actually affects the lives of many more people and that society also benefits from this. Markteffect therefore Markteffect a study for KNGF Guide Dogs to gain insight into the actual impact of the organization's services.

To gain insight into the impact of assistance dogs on the lives of clients, their loved ones, and society, a total of 34 in-depth interviews were conducted. The interviewees were both clients who have an assistance dog from KNGF Guide Dogs and the loved ones of clients. By talking to people from both groups, a clear picture of the impact of the assistance dog could be painted.

As a result of our research, KNGF has gained a deeper understanding of the impact of assistance dogs on the lives of clients. Having an assistance dog gives the client independence, autonomy, and self-confidence, among other things. The assistance dog brings joy to the family and is there for the whole family. The immediate environment enjoys more freedom and fewer worries, among other things. The assistance dog takes over care tasks from loved ones and ensures that the client plays a greater role in society by being able to start or maintain work.

KNGF Guide Dogs will use the results of the study in various ways. For donors and volunteers, the results will once again underscore the importance of the work of assistance dogs and the impact their support has, not only on the client, but also on their immediate environment. In addition, the results are important in demonstrating the added value and, in many cases, the reduction in care costs to health insurers, who often reimburse part of the total costs. Finally, it is a huge boost for the employees of KNGF Guide Dogs, who work passionately within the organization, to see that so many people benefit from a professionally trained dog.

"The collaboration with Markteffect very smoothly. It was the first time we had worked with them, but we would definitely do so again. What stood out was the professionalism demonstrated by our contacts in their input, suggestions, and advice. They are also very friendly."
Irma Metzger – Project Manager, KNGF

Some research projects stay with you for a long time. The KNGF study, in which we conducted 34 personal interviews, is one of them. We heard some remarkable stories, all from people who spoke enthusiastically about their assistance dogs and what the KNGF means to them and their families. In any case, we have become much more aware of the impact a dog can have and hope that these results will help the KNGF to spread the word even further."
Mirjam Verbon - Research Capacity Manager, Markteffect