MMeunier

Guide-Dog-in-Training Cleo Visits WCBS New York

Cleo sits quietly with tongue out slightly focused on activity off camera at the WCBS broadcastWe’re excited to share this Sunday morning segment, which aired on WCBS-TV (CBS New York) on August 24, in honor of National Dog Month.

Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Ben Cawley, together with Cleo, a yellow Labrador Retriever guide-dog-in-training, highlighted the process of training a guide dog. Ben discussed the dog’s journey from vital early experiences with volunteer puppy raisers to their return to campus and eventual pairing with a student – all at no cost to the recipient.

While Ben provided information about the organization and how viewers can get involved, Cleo, in her blue Unifly guide dog harness, was a shining example of an exceptional Guiding Eyes dog. Ben demonstrated the foundational skill “Touch,” which uses food rewards to teach targeting, and Cleo was an enthusiastic participant. When asked about this year’s WAGATHON, Ben described the September event and how viewers can sign up to take part in the virtual marathon at their own pace.

We thank Ben and Cleo, for doing a great job celebrating Guiding Eyes for the Blind and National Dog Month!

Click the image below to watch the video from WCBS “How a New York nonprofit is training dogs to help the blind” or use this LINK.

Ben sits on a couch with the two hosts of the WCBS program and Cleo demonstrates the Touch skill