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Mariana and Einstein

Meet Graduate Mariana

Graduate Mariana with yellow Lab guide dog EinsteinGraduate Team:  Mariana and Einstein
About the Team:  Einstein, a male yellow Lab, is Mariana’s 2nd Guiding Eyes dog
Hometown:  Miami, Florida
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor:  Dan Weesner
February Residential Training

Mariana returns to Guiding Eyes for her second guide dog. She is employed as a claims specialist at the Little Havana Activities & Nutrition Center and is also a student at Florida International University, majoring in psychology. Mariana looks forward to graduating this year and pursuing a career in social work.  When taking a breather from her busy life of work and school, she enjoys days at the beach and being active, running, kayaking, and flying kites. Mariana has a musical side as well and enjoys playing guitar.

How would you describe your guide dog? “Einstein is very energetic, sweet and friendly!  He likes to be near me and is always ready to work.  I am impressed at how focused he is. When he is working, he is not even distracted by other dogs!”

What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I researched many guide dog schools and Guiding Eyes came out on top. I really appreciate the quality of the training and the continued support post-graduation. In addition, Einstein is part of the running guides program. I look forward to going on runs with him in the future.”

How has having a guide dog impacted your life?  “I am more confident and comfortable with Einstein by my side. I generally feel more secure. My daily commute includes walking several blocks, taking the bus and metro.  I can travel more quickly with Einstein.  I also think others are more aware of me because of him.”

Were there any training highlights?  “My trainer Dan was outstanding! He was patient and personalized my training. Training in New York City was a highlight.  Einstein and I were able to navigate the subway and work in a heavily trafficked area. The entire staff at Guiding Eyes is amazing and goes above and beyond, making you feel at home. Even after graduation, Guiding Eyes is committed to the success of the team and continues to be very responsive and supportive.”

Meet Guide Dog Einstein

 

Einstein had us from the first day he arrived. He is probably the most handsome puppy we started, and those eyebrows just make you smile! He was always eager to learn, a little spunky and jumpy, but had a soft side so gentle and sweet you could trust him with a newborn. The first time he learned to walk appropriately, by my side, I knew this boy had what it takes. We are so proud of our boy, and happy for his new person. We’ll never forget Einstein, he made a mark on our hearts, and we know he’s going to have an even bigger impact on the lucky person to receive his guidance. Congratulations, and thanks to his finishing raisers, and all the amazing staff and trainers at GEB for helping him graduate! You are all incredible wonderful people!

Josh Cicchino & Image Moore, Puppy Raisers of Einstein

A social butterfly, adventurer and lick-master. That is Einstein to the core. He greets everyone with an enthusiasm that spreads through his body, from not only his nose to tail, but from the tip of his tongue. You could always count on Einstein to be thrilled to see you and to provide you with a bath. Einstein brought that same enthusiasm into everything that was asked of him. He canoed, climbed mountains and camped, diving in with an inner confidence and complete trust of those around him. We enjoyed exploring from Maine down through Virginia with Einstein and are excited that his adventures will continue in Florida with Mariana by his side.

Heiko and Susan Johannsen, Puppy Raisers of Einstein

 

Enjoy these photos of the team and Einstein as a pup on program…