From Camper to Mentor with Cheddar: Ava’s GDB Journey
Ava Basso’s journey with Guide Dogs for the Blind began as a teenager at Camp GDB, where she discovered a new sense of confidence, community, and a vision for her future. That experience and later being paired with her guide dog, Cheddar, helped shaped Ava’s path through school, advocacy work, and eventually back to GDB, where she now helps others begin their own journeys.
Conversations With Chris: The Journey of a Breeder Dog and Her Puppies
Don’t miss this livestreamed event! Join GDB President and CEO Christine Benninger on a behind-the-scenes look at the remarkable journey of a breeder dog and her puppies. Through exclusive video footage from our state-of-the-art Puppy Center and an engaging panel discussion, Chris and experts from our Breeding and Canine Welfare Neonatal teams will share insights into the care, science, and dedication that give future guide dogs the best possible start in life.
Mission Moment: Orientation & Mobility Immersion Client Stephen Singer
For GDB clients who receive on-campus training, meeting fellow clients and sharing personal experiences can be just as life-changing as the training itself. In Stephen Singer's case, sharing his sight loss journey with classmates led to an unexpected opportunity and a meaningful reminder that new possibilities can emerge when people believe in you.
At Guide Dogs for the Blind, dog welfare guides every aspect of our work—including how we support dogs during time spent in kennel environments on our campuses. Guided by our Dog Welfare Statement and the Five Domains of Animal Welfare framework, GDB continually evaluates and adapts strategies to create calm, comfortable, and individualized experiences for every dog. In a peer-reviewed publication, we share approaches that help support dogs’ wellbeing in kennel settings, with a focus on the physical environment and behavioral interactions that shape their daily experience.
In this episode of Central Bark, host Theresa Stern talks with GDB client Juanita Herrera about the everyday realities of parenting with a guide dog in the home. From setting boundaries to building strong relationships, this conversation explores how guide dogs and kids learn to live and thrive together.
