“In memory of Aunt Maxine, a life-long animal lover, who cherished all the animals she knew, but most of all, was in awe of Jada, Cindy Lou Altman’s Guiding Eyes guide dog, and the freedom and confidence Cindy Lou gained. Maxine would be beaming knowing this graduation was sponsored in her memory.”
– Cris and Cindy Lou Altman
“In memory of Joe Hilton, and wishing Guiding Eyes Moseley good luck!”
– Tina Shevetone and Judy Eisele
Graduate Team: Jimmy and Moseley
About the Team: Moseley, a male black Lab, is James 1st guide dog
Hometown: Yonkers, New York
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor: Stephanie Koret
Jimmy comes to Guiding Eyes for his first guide dog. Basketball has always been a big part of this Lehman College graduate‘s life. He played basketball during his college years and his father was a renowned basketball coach. For a time, Jimmy also ran a basketball program and being active continues to be very important to him. In years past, he found great enjoyment in his time helping others get fit at his local health club. Moseley has loved getting to know Jimmy’s daughter, the rest of his family and all their pet dogs too!
How would you describe your guide dog? “The first thing I would say about Moseley is that he’s a very smart dog. His memory is incredible and he picks up routes right away.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “When I first contacted Guiding Eyes, I hadn’t been through Orientation and Mobility Training yet, but they didn’t just brush me off. They were very courteous on the phone and helped me find the resources I needed. Once I was ready, we picked up where we left off. Guiding Eyes took all my concerns seriously and were willing to explain everything thoroughly. They did whatever they could to help.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “I think people are more aware of someone walking with a dog, than someone with a cane. I feel more comfortable going outside and found that having that second set of eyes has been life-changing. I really feel confident when I’m out and about now and he eases my worries. He’s been a fantastic companion for me.”
Were there any training highlights? “Our trainer Stephanie was great. She’s so knowledgeable and experienced and helped me understand the best way to communicate with Moseley. I could really see the difference it made in how we worked together; he’s been fantastic and so attentive.”
Moseley originally came to us as a small pup for a week of Home Socialization, but we soon became the raisers of this bundle of black puppiness. Moseley had a different way of interacting with each person, knowing what they like and need. He would go around the house checking on everyone, just to be sure they were OK, often settling on someone’s feet. One night I heard our college-age son in his room, speaking at length and I assumed he was on the phone. What I found was him on the floor, stroking a well-settled puppy on his lap and no cellphone in sight. It was clear this pup Moseley, had already begun valuable service. I’m a pastor-in-training and initially members of our new church were reticent about Moseley, but people were amazed at how quietly invisible he was. One time, a 2-year-old, mischievously army-crawled under the pews to visit, but Moseley remained completely still! Moseley was a shared and beloved presence in our home, but eventually it was clear it was time for him to graduate to his highest calling. We are gratefully eager to see him work his “Moseley Magic” with his new partner.
David Rucquoi, Puppy Raiser of Moseley
Meet our other recent guide dog team graduates. Click here!
Friends and Family: Watch this video to learn more about Working with a Guide Dog Team.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind is approved by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501 (C) (3) tax-exempt organization, and all donations are tax deductible to the extent provided by law.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind Federal Identification Number (EIN) is 13-1854606.
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