Graduate Team: Isaias and Rocky
About the Team: Rocky, a male, black Lab; Isaias’s 1st guide dog
Location: Danielson, Connecticut
Training: July 2025 On-Campus
Isaias is a busy high school senior who manages a rigorous academic schedule, including AP and college-level courses. He is also the captain of his school’s fencing team. Currently applying to colleges, Isaias plans to major in psychology and hopes to attend law school, with the goal of becoming a criminal defense attorney. When he isn’t studying or fencing, he enjoys following soccer, hiking, playing video games, spending time with friends and family, and of course, playing with Rocky! He also has a collection of vinyl records.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Rocky is a very hard worker, but also enjoys relaxing when he is not in harness. He is very smart! In the short time we have been working together, I’ve taught him to get things for me if I drop something or cannot locate it. With a simple ‘Rocky, find it!’ he is on the job, retrieving whatever I lost. With the school year starting, Rocky has adjusted well to my daily schedule. I am really proud of him. At home, he loves to play tag and hide-and-seek. I am working on finding new hiding spots!”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I do not like feeling dependent on, or limited by, my cane. As I was exploring guide dog schools, Guiding Eyes stood apart because they will consider applicants who are minors. I appreciate the opportunity I have been given with Rocky. He and I have a partnership, and together we can do so much at a comfortable and efficient pace. I often describe my cane as an obstacle finder, whereas Rocky is an obstacle avoider. Low-light environments are especially challenging, even with a cane. Rocky makes navigating in the dark so much easier. ”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Rocky has given me a different perspective on life and an improved outlook. I am more confident and independent, and as a result, I enjoy being out in public more often. He is my guide dog, but he is quickly becoming a best friend. He will be with me in deciding which university to attend.”
Were there any training highlights? “When I first met Rocky, there were four people in the room: my parents, the trainer, and me. When Rocky’s crate was opened, he did not hesitate and came directly over to me. He knew I was his person! Training was hard work, with its challenges and victories, but I am proud of the rate at which we progressed and the immediate bond Rocky and I shared.”
DOB: 2/20/2023
Litter ID: 2R23
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Kyra
Stud: Loki
Littermates: Rex, Racer, Powell, Ripple, Ranger, Rhonda
Region: Bay
Regional Puppy Instructor: Cindy Tait
Puppy Raiser: Ashlyn & Thomas Pagano
Facebook: Bay Puppy Raisers
Throughout Rocky’s puppy journey, he was an absolute *rock* star of a dog. His cuddly and chill personality made him a joy to be around. He is always down for an adventure, whether it’s a road trip, hiking, relaxing at a festival, or or playing on the beach. Our favorite memory was taking him to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to run up the famous Rocky Steps and see the Rocky Statue. Every guide dog was once a puppy who refused to give up! Congratulations, champ! ~ Ashlyn Pagano
