A Belgian Story of Solidarity and Service
Founded in 1990 by the Kiwanis “Scale” Club of Brussels, inspired by a visit to a guide dog training centre in Limoges, Scale Dogs celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. It marks a beautiful milestone in one of Belgium’s most heartwarming stories of compassion, community spirit, and dedication.
From the beginning, the organisation’s mission has remained clear and powerful: to transform lives through the extraordinary partnership between humans and dogs.
Scale Dogs trains and provides guide dogs for the visually impaired, as well as assistance dogs for children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Thanks to a passionate team and an exceptional volunteer network, the organisation now places between five and eight dogs each year with their new human partners.
“Behind every guide dog is a story of trust, courage, and unconditional love.”
More Than Companions, Partners in Independence
At the heart of Scale Dogs is a belief that independence, confidence, and quality of life can be profoundly enhanced through the right canine partnership.
Each dog is trained not only to perform essential daily tasks, but to offer reassurance, emotional stability, and a sense of belonging. Whether guiding someone safely through a busy street or providing calm and comfort to a child with autism, these dogs create bridges, between isolation and inclusion, fear and freedom.
Scale Dogs doesn’t just train animals; it cultivates life-changing relationships built on trust, respect, and deep mutual understanding. Its mission extends far beyond mobility, it is about restoring dignity and empowering people to navigate the world with confidence.
“Scale Dogs doesn’t just train dogs; it trains hope.”
Families with Big Hearts
Behind every guide dog or assistance dog stands a foster family, volunteers who open their homes to raise these exceptional puppies during their first year of life.
They help the dogs learn, socialise, and grow with love, structure, and patience. Their role is crucial: without foster families, the organisation simply cannot fulfil its mission.
Scale Dogs is always looking for new families ready to take part in this unforgettable experience. If you’re curious or inspired, visit scaledogs.be to discover how you can apply.
“A foster family doesn’t just raise a dog, they raise someone’s future.”
A Collective Effort with a Priceless Impact
Training a guide dog or assistance dog is a long and delicate process, taking up to two years and representing an average investment of €43,500 per dog.
That’s why every donation matters. Each contribution directly supports training, care, and long-term follow-up, giving someone the gift of independence and a safer, more autonomous life.
To support Scale Dogs, donations can be made via bank transfer:
BE37 0012 6238 0228
(Donations of €40 or more are tax-deductible.)
“Every euro donated brings someone one step, and one paw, closer to freedom.”
Step by Step, Paw by Paw
Scale Dogs embodies a timeless truth: meaningful social change begins with empathy, collaboration, and shared humanity. Thanks to devoted volunteers, foster families, donors, and a team of five expert trainers, the organisation continues to make Belgium a more inclusive and hopeful place.
One step, one paw at a time.
For more information:
Olivier Erkelbout, Director
Mob: +32 495 206 106
scaledogs.be
