Graduate Team: Nicholas and Star
About the Team: Star, a female black Lab, is Nick’s 2nd Guiding Eyes dog
Location: Beverly, Massachusetts
Training: June 2024 On-Campus
How would you describe your guide dog? “Star is energetic, lively, and a courageous young guide who loves to work. Traveling into Boston, and riding trains and subways are among the highlights of her busy working day. Star’s ability to navigate challenging routes, weave through pedestrians and communicate to me what lies ahead, is nothing short of amazing. She adheres to the work hard, play hard mentality. When she is off harness, she loves belly rubs and any toy that makes noise. She also loves splashing in the waters off Cape Ann.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I graduated with my first guide dog from Guiding Eyes and the support, both during class and afterward, is unmatched. Guiding Eyes trainers have a passion for dogs. While I live in a suburban town, I travel often to Boston and other large cities. Because of this, I was matched with a dog that met my needs and was comfortable training in these environments. That level of individualized experience in class is what sets Guiding Eyes apart.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Finding enough to say to describe the freedom of having a guide dog is difficult. It is remarkable the confidence Star has given me. Traveling for work is no longer a daunting task. It has become a welcomed routine. Whether crossing a street or crossing the country, I travel looking forward to the adventures that lie ahead.”
Were there any training highlights? “I had the privilege of being part of an incredible class. From my classmates, puppy raisers I met, to Star herself, all were extraordinary. Working with Shanon, my instructor was an absolute delight. Her extensive experience makes her a valuable asset, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Connecting with trainer Jolene, and witnessing the joy Star had upon their reunion, was an unforgettable experience. Learning about Ann, Jerry, and Scott, Star’s puppy raisers, and hearing about Star’s early life, was deeply touching. My most memorable moment though, was the first time I picked up Star’s harness handle to work with her. Her eagerness made the experience my favorite moment during training.”
DOB: 7/29/2022
Litter ID: S-P-3SS22
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador
Gender: Female
Brood: Darren
Stud: Minka
Littermates: Springsteen, Savannah, Santana, Splash, Sprinkles, Sushi
Region: NoVA-North
Regional Puppy Instructor: Katie Meuer
Puppy Raiser: Ann & Jerry Vernon, Scott Vernon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geb.novanorthregion/
Special Recognition: Star was special named by the Jacksonville Beach Lions and was also followed by a Pathfinder Society member, someone who listed Guiding Eyes in their legacy plans and received photos and updates of Star’s journey.
Why did watching Star be a dog, playing, working new skills, finding her calm zone, fill me with such happiness, pride, and sense of wellbeing? She was just doing what she was meant to do – be a Guide Dog! She was a student and a teacher (of me) without ever going to “school”, but we did do homework every day. We had our moments of struggle, joy, and then our Eureka moments. Every step was special along the way, but especially that she overcame her dog distractions and was used for her best skill: being busy, active, and on the move. ~ Ann Vernon and Scott Vernon