Amy and Fairlee

Meet Graduate Amy

Graduate Team: Amy and Fairlee
About the Team: Fairlee, a female black Lab, is Amy’s 1st guide dog
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska
Training: August 2023 Home Training

Amy was born and raised in Norfolk, Nebraska. She spent time in Kansas City and currently resides in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was born with Retinitis Pigmentosa and a stigmatism, which caused complete vision loss. Prior to receiving Fairlee, her first guide dog, Amy relied on both a cane and sighted guides to navigate the world around her. Fairlee has opened a door to increased independence and confidence in her day to day life. Amy values family above all else and has an interest in music and art. She has two sons who share her love of music, Ashton, 20,  plays guitar and Sullivan, 15, the drums. Her music tastes span from country to rock to classical. Amy also enjoys curling up with a good book by Christian authors or occasionally a thrilling mystery.

How would you describe your guide dog?  “Fairlee is a sweetheart. It is very easy to love her because of her wonderful personality.”

What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I researched a number of guide dog schools and spoke to several people to learn more about the different schools. One friend, with a guide dog from Guiding Eyes, helped solidify my decision to pursue this school. I was drawn to the home training Guiding Eyes offers and their unique style and approach to training.” 

How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “I am more comfortable traveling the routes I previously took around my neighborhood using a cane. It was intimidating and often I relied on others. I am now comfortable walking into places alone. When I am traveling my typical routes, Fairlee provides me greater independence.”

Were there any training highlights? “The first highlight was instantly bonding with Fairlee when my trainer, Dave, brought her to my house. During the training we entered a local sporting goods store. Although I was apprehensive about going inside, she did very well in handling the shopping crowds. As I have a hearing impairment and rely on hearing aids, my anxiety is heightened going to new places. Fairlee helps a great deal with alleviating my fears.”

Meet Guide Dog Fairlee

DOB:  12/22/2020
Litter ID: 1F320
Color/Breed:  Black/Labrador
Gender: Female
Brood: Mercy
Stud: Dasher
Littermates: Forest, Florie, Flower, Fanta, Fulton, Fay
Region:  Delmarva
Regional Puppy Instructor: Cindy Tait
Puppy Raiser:   The Christian Family
Facebook: Delmarva Puppy Raisers

From the Puppy Raiser…

Fairlee is a fun loving, and hard working girl. She excelled in everything she set her mind to. We had hit a few bumps along the way with fire alarms and stressful situations, but she always pushed through and came out better than ever. We had so much fun taking her to the Smithsonian and around Washington DC. The most enjoyable part about raising Fairlee was learning her fun personality quirks. She is very smart and loving and I know she will do amazing things. ~ Madison Christian, Puppy Raiser

Photos of the Team…