Graduate Team: Rory and Teagan
About the Team: Teagan, a black male Lab; Rory’s 2nd Guiding Eyes dog
Location: Hobe Sound, Florida
Training: October 2025 On-Campus
Rory returns to Guiding Eyes for his second guide dog, Teagan, who was specially trained as a running guide. Rory grew up in California and earned his undergraduate degree in Colorado. He then travelled overseas to Aberdeen, Scotland, for graduate school. As a middle school teacher, Rory spends his days guiding curious young students through new ideas and challenges with Teagan by his side. The students are always delighted to see Teagan and eagerly anticipate the moments they’re allowed to interact with him. Rory currently lives in his parents’ home in Florida and feels very fortunate to reside within walking distance of the beach. One of his favorite things to do is run with Tegan along the shore, and he also enjoys socializing in some of the local establishments with friends.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Teagan is a very conscientious dog. When in harness, he is all business. He always wants to do the right thing. Once he gets used to something or warms up to it, he is a rockstar! For example, he now goes in the water at the beach with a bit of encouragement, on a 15-foot leash of course! He loves his dog treats. He likes to nap, which is great, since I am a teacher, and he will rest during the day when I am working. When we get home, he likes to play and run. He and I run on the beach, and his pace is perfect for me. He enjoys chewing bones, but his all-time favorite thing is squeaker balls.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I received my first dog from Guiding Eyes and really enjoyed their Running Guide Program. Sadly, he was diagnosed with cancer, and that was so difficult, but Guiding Eyes was very supportive during that time. Initially, I was told that it would be a year before they’d have a second running dog available. Happily, they were able to provide a dog sooner than that.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Teagan can get me places much quicker and more efficiently than when I use a cane. Once he has done a route a few times, he knows exactly where to go. I also find I have more positive interactions with people.”
Were there any training highlights? “The food was great, and the staff is phenomenal. I enjoyed the meet and greet, held so we could meet the staff members and learn the roles they play in the organization. As a returning guide dog handler, it was cool to learn a little more of what goes on behind the scenes. I also enjoyed our day trip to Beacon. It was useful to practice taking the train and a bus.”
DOB: 11/21/2023
Litter ID: 5T323
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Ziti
Stud: Denny
Littermates: Tally, Thimble, Taco
Region: Cleveland West
Regional Puppy Instructor: Macy Nauman
Puppy Raiser: The Trela Family
Facebook: Ohio Puppy Raisers
The moment we brought Teagan home from NY in February 2024, he fit right in at our house. When he realized what training and “work” was, his attention and focus was absolute. This dog wanted to learn, work and please! We started saying that Teagan always stared at us with determination, “tell me what to do!!!” He loved making us laugh, smile and reward him when he did well. When he wasn’t being trained, he would stare at us just the same, wanting to work, begging us: “tell me what to do!” Now Teagy, we did our part telling you what to do as best we can, and we are confident you will go on to “do” big things that bring you joy. You certainly brought us joy every day. ~ Lindsay Meggas & Joe Trela
