[nfb-talk] Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation Inc.

[Marion Gwizdala]

Please distribute the following message as widely as appropriate.


         January 28, 2011



             The National Association of Guide Dog Users (NAGDU), a 
division of the National Federation of the Blind, has been contacted 
by a consumer of the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation Inc., alleging that 
they have arbitrarily and without just cause, removed her dog from 
her. Fidelco contends that they removed the dog "for safety reasons" 
but refuse to share any more details, citing confidentiality and 
privacy concerns, in spite of a signed release of information form 
granting permission to speak with us. Fidelco officials contend they 
have given the consumer an explanation of the reason the dog was 
repossessed, a fact the consumer denies. Fidelco has referred us to 
their ownership agreement which states, "Fidelco may repossess the 
dog. . .for any other reason as determined by Fidelco in its sole and 
absolute discretion."

             We have reason to believe that this is not an isolated 
incident and there are other consumers who have been treated in a 
similar manner by the Fidelco Guide Dog foundation inc. We are 
interested in hearing from others who have had their dogs repossessed 
by Fidelco without cause or explanation "in its sole and absolute 
discretion." Fidelco consumers wishing to file such a complaint 
should send their names, addresses (including email addresses), and 
telephone numbers, along with the circumstances of the repossession to



Marion Gwizdala, President

National Association of Guide Dog Users

National Federation of the Blind

<mailto:President at NAGDU.ORG>President at NAGDU.ORG