Graduate Team: Guillermo and Geo
About the Team Geo, a male black Lab; Guillermo’s 2nd guide dog
Location: Orlando, Florida
Training: March 2026, On Campus
Guillermo received his second guide dog, a male black Labrador named Geo. Guillermo works as an account executive for Lighthouse Works, an organization that provides employment for people who are blind and visually impaired. Born in Venezuela, he earned his degree in economics there before moving to the United States in 2013. Since then, he has lived in several cities around the country, including Miami, Milwaukee, and now Orlando. Guillermo is married and the father of two children, ages 8 and 5. He lost his vision due to retinitis pigmentosa, and having a guide dog has enabled him to continue traveling extensively across the country, attending conferences, and meeting potential clients as part of the important work he does to support the blind community.
How would you describe your guide dog? “I find him to be very analytical. My vision has declined since my first guide dog, so I really need a dog I can completely rely on for safety-related behaviors. I really like that Geo is looking around, looking at me, being sure he understands what I’m asking for, and that it can be done safely. He is deliberate and careful about being sure he’s following the right instructions. Every dog is different, so it helps to have a good understanding of what you can do and what you need your dog to help with. With Geo, he wants to be sure he’s following my decisions safely, and that’s exactly what I need this time!”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I first learned about Guiding Eyes from a graduate and supportive friend, Jose Lopez, who received all of his guide dogs from there. He gave such a great referral, I never even considered looking anywhere else. When I got my first dog, it was a magnificent experience. At that time, my vision wasn’t as bad as it is now, and my dog provided me with a sense of independence and safety walking around the city. Everyone at Guiding Eyes was so welcoming, and it was a wonderful experience. When it came time for Keely to retire, I didn’t even think of any other option! Although I’m familiar with other schools, I would never consider anywhere else. My instructor this time happened to be the same one I had with my first guide dog. Kat was amazing, and her personality is a perfect match with mine. They really took the time to make sure my trainer would be a good fit and that my dog and I would be a successful team.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “My condition is Retinitis Pigmentosa. When I received my first guide dog, she made such a difference in my ability to get around when the lighting was not ideal, as that really affected my vision. Now, with Geo, in addition to guiding, I teach him to ‘follow.’ For example, when we go to a restaurant, we use the follow command to follow the host to our table. Having a guide dog gives me so much more independence. I feel much safer and more secure going to unknown places. I don’t have to worry about lighting conditions and can go out at night. You are dependent on the dog, but the dog is always there for you!”
Were there any training highlights? “There were so many great things! To start, the campus is very well-designed. The rooms are perfect, and each student is given their own. The layout is designed in a way that it’s very easy to navigate. I was so impressed by how comfortable the accommodations were and how important it is to the staff that everyone feels comfortable. The kitchen staff was so nice! There is a suggested meal during the day, but they are willing to accommodate any dietary needs. I wasn’t eating meat on Fridays during Lent, and they were more than happy to accommodate that. They also have a small fitness area if you want to continue your workout or training. They had lots of fun activities and planned events that helped put us at ease. Another fantastic aspect was their flexibility and willingness to individualize our training. You aren’t obligated to do anything you don’t need or don’t feel comfortable with. For example, there is a trip to Manhattan at the end, but you don’t have to go if you don’t live near a big city. They also offer work with escalators or revolving doors, unless you don’t use those in your daily life. We all felt so comfortable because of that. Training is a place to connect, meet others, and have fun!”
DOB: 2/3/2024
Litter ID: 6G24
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Merijul
Stud: Wiggins
Littermates: Garden, Gidget, Garrett, Gumbo, Gracie
Region: Adirondack
Regional Puppy Instructor: Kate Gardner
Puppy Raiser: Mary Buesing
Facebook: Adirondack Puppy Raisers
Raising Geo has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. He was an exemplary puppy,
following Guiding Eyes house manners perfectly and respecting boundaries with just a simple “ugh oh.”Geo is incredibly smart, friendly, and thoughtful. It was easy to see in class that he is the perfect blend of spunky and sweet, making training an absolute joy. As part of his socialization, he accompanied me to the gym three times a week, becoming a beloved celebrity who brought smiles to everyone in Body Pump class.Geo is truly special, and I cannot wait to see him thrive as a team with Guillermo. He will always hold a special place in my heart. ~Mary Buesing
