Graduate Team: Jessica and Uber
About the Team: Uber, a male yellow Lab, is Jessica’s 1st guide dog
Location: Irwin, Pennsylvania
Training: April 2023 Home Training
Jessica is a graduate of her local high school and enjoys being active. Some of her favorite athletic activities include bowling, golf, basketball and track and field events. Jessica was first drawn to Guiding Eyes because of the Running Guides program and looks forward to running with Uber. Being teamed with Uber has not only increased her independence, but also her desire to be out in the community. You may also find Jessica in the kitchen, where she enjoys baking. Jessica lives with her parents and younger brother and sister, and although they have had pet dogs in the past, Uber is the only dog in the family currently. They all enjoy having him as a part of the family, where he receives lots of love and attention.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Uber is very funny, playful and a real ham! He loves attention. He also loves to work. As soon as Uber sees his harness and hears the word ‘go’ he is ready and up for any adventure. He loves to go places in the car.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I wanted to increase my independence and be able to be out in my community more. I knew a guide dog would help me with both goals. I applied to several schools, but the Running Guides program, as well as the availability of Specialized Training, made it clear that Guiding Eyes was the school for me.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “In the short time since I got Uber, I can feel my independence increasing. I can and want to go out more. Not only does he guide me, but his companionship also makes me happier! I loved the opportunity to meet Uber’s puppy raiser over FaceTime. I look forward to learning about his littermates as well.”
Were there any training highlights? “Two events during training really stand out in my mind. Both events give a good glimpse into Uber’s big personality. My trainer Ellin and I were putting on Uber’s booties. As soon as we had all four booties on him, he became very excited and started galloping around the room. Another time we were out walking a route in my neighborhood and a drizzling rain quickly turned into a downpour. Uber was unfazed and kept his usual comfortable pace. During training, I realized how smart Uber is by how fast he learns. We taught him to stop at a special spot along the route and he does it each time.”
DOB: 11/10/2020
Litter ID: 9UU20
Color/Breed: Yellow/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Guava
Stud: Wallace
Littermates: Ulani, Ubanks, Utica, Ulla, Una, Unity, Umpire, Utah, Ultra
Region: Richmond
Regional Puppy Instructor: Kerry Lemerise
Puppy Raiser: The Hester Family
Facebook: Richmond VA Puppy Raisers
Uber was such a delight to raise! He always made us laugh, and was always up for a challenge. We had a baby during his time with us, and he welcomed the new baby into our family with such a sweet and gentle spirit. He traveled to Colorado with us and explored the state in an RV. We loved taking him hiking and exploring. He is adventurous, brave, and spunky! We couldn’t be more proud of him and are so excited to see him thrive as a guide dog. ~ Kylie Hester & Family, Puppy Raisers