GDB Unveils New Industry-Leading Puppy Raising Guidebook
GDB’s Puppy Raising Program has undergone a major transformation to help more dogs become guides, breeders, or K9 Buddies. The reimagined program places greater emphasis on exposing puppies to sights, sounds, and experiences that build their confidence and resilience rather than training them to learn specific behaviors. Puppy Raising Director Sarah Blevins says the innovative program’s Puppy Raising Guidebook is now available to puppy raisers and the public on GDB’s website.
Join GDB President and CEO Christine Benninger as she hosts a livestream panel discussion on "Raising Confident and Resilient Puppies." Chris will be joined by Kristin Lucas, GDB’s canine and community operations officer, and Dr. Sarah-Elizabeth Byosiere, director of canine research and development. They'll discuss how GDB is incorporating the latest scientific research to help more dogs succeed as guides, breeders, or K9 Buddies.
Margeaux Gray says she has GDB’s staff, donors, and puppy raisers to thank for the enhanced independence, freedom, and friendship she has experienced with her guide dog, Wrigley. “They are part of my journey because their time and money has made a difference in my life and in Wrigley’s life.”
Survey Reveals Pervasive Discrimination Against Guide Dog Handlers
A recent Rideshare Survey among GDB guide dog handlers in North America found that 83% of respondents have been denied services by rideshare drivers despite federal protection of service dog handlers under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Thanks to FOX 17 for highlighting important findings of this research and for bringing the personal experiences of our clients to the story. The news story shows GDB clients with guide dogs in their home and work environments.
Access and Representation in the Entertainment Industry
Television and film producer Joe Strechay joins Central Bark Host Theresa Stern to talk about accessibility and inclusion in the entertainment industry. Joe was a producer on the Netflix series All The Light We Cannot See, starring GDB alum Aria Mia Loberti. They talk about his work in disability employment advocacy and finally settle the "cane vs canine" debate.
