Gucci & Fendi: Pups Making Their Mark

The Farber family has been an integral part of Guiding Eyes since 2013 when they first came to adopt a family pet. Their journey began with Cobey, a medical release pup, who quickly became a beloved member of their family. When Cobey sadly passed away in 2018, they joined the Brood/Stud Program, becoming fosters for brood, Gucci.

Gucci was an amazing addition to the family, and her name made them an interesting match! Paul Farber, an optician, is quite familiar with designer eyewear from Italian luxury brands like Gucci… and Fendi. When later that year a black Lab named Fendi became a new brood, it’s no surprise who Brood/Stud Manager, Maria Lazzaro, immediately turned to.  The family gladly welcomed Fendi into their home as well, continuing to support the program and participate in Home Litter Care until both broods retired in 2022.

Their positive impact continues to ripple outwards, improving the lives of individuals with vision loss. In December 2023, a Fendi pup, Casey, graduated as a guide dog with his partner, and three pups from Gucci’s litters have gone on to become members of Guiding Eyes’ elite breeding colony:  Cammie, Everett, and Coco. They in turn have continued the line of outstanding guide dog qualities through their offspring, breeding dogs Queenie (Cammie), Ziti, Bagel, and Benny (Everett) and Aura and Archie (Coco).

One might think outstanding progeny and retirement is the end of their doggie tale, but Gucci, Fendi, and the Farbers were not done giving back to the community!  Gucci and Fendi are two sweet pups with fancy names and big hearts. They worked with Paul to receive certification as therapy dogs and enjoy regular visits to the patients at North Shore University Hospital on Long Island. They receive smiles and affection from staff and patients, while providing a cheerful distraction to those who truly need one.

Paul describes the welcoming environment encountered on their visits. “To me it’s amazing how the staff and patients smile when they see Gucci and Fendi approach them. The staff always say, ‘I can feel my blood pressure going down. Boy do I need Gucci and Fendi today!’ Many times, the patients say Gucci and Fendi are the best medicine they’ve received since they got there. Walking around the hospital with the dogs is like walking around with two rock stars!”

The Farber’s dedication to promoting Guiding Eyes’ core mission and making a difference in the lives of others is truly heartwarming and inspiring. We are grateful to have the Farber family as part of our community. If you’re interested in becoming a foster to one of our outstanding breeding dogs,  contact Maria at mlazzaro@guidingeyes.org. She’d love to hear from you!

Gucci, (2G316), was raised by Michelle Kristen Kati, in the Eastern MA puppy raising region. Fendi,  (4F17), was started in the Lower Westchester Puppy Raising Region by Adiana Leidich and raised by Linda Depuy in the Wayne County Region.