Graduate Team: Maryann and Dusty
About the Team: Dusty, a female black Lab; Maryann’s 2nd guide dog
Location: Gardiner, New York
Training: August 2025 On-Campus
Maryann received her associate’s degree in early childhood education in 2021, and she currently works one-on-one with infants and preschoolers in a special education program. She will be attending SUNY Orange Community College, studying Occupational Therapy, beginning in the January 2026 semester, continuing to support special needs children in developing important life skills, such as dressing, shoe-tying, and managing sensory challenges like overstimulation through calming techniques. Maryann lives with her parents and three young brothers, who range from 6 to 11 years old. Outside of work, she assists her mother in caring for her ill father and supports two of her brothers, who have autism. Maryann is a runner, and Dusty is a trained running guide dog. Together, they enjoy running on the rail trail that passes through her town and behind her house. In addition to running, Maryann enjoys listening to country and hip-hop music, as well as shopping.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Dusty is super sweet. She is a cautious girl, always watching to make sure I’m Ok and safe. She loves to work and likes knowing she’s doing the right thing. When we go to the store, she already knows how to get me to the right aisles when I say apples, milk, salad, or even when I say Teddy Grahams cereal. She likes running in harness.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “In 2016, I was in a support group of visually impaired people. My mentor had a guide dog and suggested I apply for one. I found Guiding Eyes and realized I didn’t live too far from the Training School, so I contacted them. They did my home interview and even brought a guide dog. I was super excited when they let me walk with the dog, and in 2018, I received Lopey. I knew when it was time for my second guide dog, I would not trust any other school besides Guiding Eyes. I love Guiding Eyes staff – from training to veterinary care. The follow-up after graduation is ongoing. They care not just about your dog but you too, making sure you’re alright every step of the way.”
How has a guide dog impacted your life? “Being able to work with a guide dog provides independence and safety while traveling without my family. It allowed me to continue gaining confidence while conquering the world of college life and entering the workforce with confidence in being safe, without fear of running into things, falling off curbs, or stepping in front of traffic. Working with a running guide dog also gives me the confidence to run independently on trails. I live in a small town with no traffic lights or sidewalks. I had Lopey, and now Dusty, who is very alert about cars, and good about shorelining me if a car is approaching, or guiding me away from holes or changes in the pavement. These Guiding Eyes dogs have changed my life and make every day easier.”
Were there any training highlights? “I loved that the class size was smaller this time. I felt like there was more one-on-one time with our instructors. Training with my instructor, Kat, was wonderful. She knew if I wasn’t feeling Ok. We had a code word to check on how I was doing, to pause and reset or refocus, and work through hard times. Kat made me laugh throughout class. She also tells you like it is and does not sugarcoat anything. That’s why she is such an amazing trainer. I loved running with Jolene – she was amazing. The staff at Guiding Eyes are all great, and the nursing staff was so nice. The food was great, and so was Chef Rob and the kitchen staff. They brought my salad every night with my favorite dressing. I don’t drink coffee, so they always brought me hot chocolate. The staff wants you to focus on your dog; they don’t want you to worry about any other small thing, from food to cleaning up. Just focus on your bond with your dog.”
DOB: 9/8/2023
Litter ID: 5D323
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Female
Brood: Irie
Stud: Ira
Littermates: Dream, Draco, Dispatch, Denver
Region: Montgomery
Regional Puppy Instructor: Jeanyne Gembarski
Puppy Raiser: The Banerjee Family
Facebook: Montgomery Puppy Raisers
On a wintry day, we welcomed Dusty, a tiny bundle of joy with twinkling brown eyes full of curiosity. In no time, that little “Swirling Dust Bundle” grew into a confident, graceful girl who quickly became our best buddy and darling companion. Dusty’s greatest strength is her blend of politeness and adaptability, whether running joyfully in the yard or taking routine walks, always giving space to other dogs when needed. It’s hilarious to see her curled up in a loud-snoring nap, often in the most comical posture. Watching her grow into a calm and responsible Guide Dog with kind eyes and a spirited “Runner Labrador” has been a true joy. We are so grateful to have shared this journey with her. Thanks to the GEB team for the opportunity; it has been an honor to raise Dusty and see her thrive so beautifully. ~ Rahul and Koyeli Banerjee
