June Home Training
Graduate Team: Jayson and Oxford
About the Team: Oxford, a male yellow Lab, is Jayson’s 1st guide dog
Hometown: Oswego, New York
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor: Lisa Derleth
Jayson attends Ithaca College and will be entering his senior year this fall. He is majoring in Exercise Science. His studies support his favorite pastime; health, fitness and working out. After graduation he plans to expand his personal fitness brand, Iron Vendetta Fitness. He is a first-time guide dog user and became familiar with Guiding Eyes dogs through Ithaca College’s puppy raising program, which allows students to raise future guide dog pups on campus. With Oxford by his side, Jayson looks forward to greater ease when navigating the campus and experiencing college life.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Oxford is 3 years old. He is very friendly and attentive. He gets along well with our two pet dogs, a Lab and a beagle. He is a good listener and worker, but when he’s not working, you’ll find him resting and relaxing. He likes to chill out. When he is off leash in the house, he like to follow me around. He is going to be a great companion.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “Guiding Eyes has a presence on the Ithaca campus through the puppy raising program. Through that I became aware of Guiding Eyes and their guide dogs. I often felt that people did not notice my cane and give me the space needed. I’m hopeful that Oxford’s presence will make me for visible to others.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “In the short time I’ve had Oxford, I believe he will make it easier for me to navigate my day and get around as needed. Walking with a cane required a lot of focus on my part. I am realizing that I can rely on Oxford to share that focus and allow me to relax a bit more. I live alone on campus, so I am looking forward to his companionship.”
Were there any training highlights? “I participated in the Home Training program. I quickly learned that I can trust Oxford and his guidance. Whether we are at a street intersection or in a store, Oxford is very good at checking in with me as to which direction I want to go. My family and I continue to work with him on distractions. No matter what else is going on in the house, when he hears my voice, he comes to me. He knows I’m his person.”
Special Recognition: Oxford was special named by the Manning Family. Click to read and watch a video about the Mannings and Oxford’s litter.
My sister and I were fortunate to have been Oxford’s starter raisers. We raised him for about 9 months. He was an extremely, sweet and lovable puppy. He got a long very with our GEB brood that we are fostering. He at times would make his opinions known and everyone took notice. He very much enjoyed going on outing and definitely enjoyed his rest time. He made many visit to schools, community outings to bring awareness of GEB mission and give out many kisses in our kissing booth. All those that met Oxford fell in love with his silly and loving personality.
Lena Gjonaj & Paska Nayden, Puppy Raisers
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