Graduate Team: Ryan and Tavi
About the Team: Tavi, a male black German Shepherd; Ryan’s 1st guide dog
Location: Knightstown, Indiana
Training: May 2025 On-Campus
Ryan attended Purdue University in Indiana, earning bachelor’s degrees in architectural engineering and business management. He has lived in Indiana his entire adult life and is married and the busy father of five children, ranging in age from 18 to 6 years old. He and his family maintain a small farm with a variety of animals, including cattle, horses, a pig, and many types of fowl, such as chickens, quail, and peacocks. In 2022, Ryan lost his vision due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident, which sidelined his careers as both a police detective and a construction firm manager. Ryan’s resilience is evident in his refusal to succumb to unexpected circumstances. Instead, he actively seeks new opportunities; after completing a four-month training program at Bosma, he successfully launched a vending business. Additionally, Ryan consults on construction projects, focusing on cost reduction and ensuring ADA compliance. He plans to earn a master’s degree in social work, focusing on providing mental health counseling to first responders. a decision coming from his understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals in these high-stress professions.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Tavi is great and always by my side. At just 2 years old, he is well-trained and well-behaved, like so many K-9 police dogs I observed working at the Shirley Police Department. Tavi is energetic, goal-oriented, and wants to please. He gets along well with kids, other dogs, and the many animals on our farm. Playing fetch is his favorite hobby!“
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “As a result of my accident and damage to my retinas, I went from being fully sighted to total vision loss in a matter of months. With the support of my family and encounters with other blind people, I gradually learned of the resources available to me. With the help of an Orientation & Mobility instructor, I developed skills for everyday living and learned to use a cane for safe travel. I want to be as independent as possible. I knew a guide dog could get me closer to that goal, and Guiding Eyes was recommended to me.“
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Tavi and I graduated just 2 weeks ago, but I already have a much greater sense of independence. Although I have a wonderful family and many friends, being blind can feel very lonely. Tavi is my companion and ready to work wherever and whenever needed. Having a guide dog is different than having a pet dog. The handler and dog interact with each other in a unique way. We take turns being the leader and the follower. Once I issue the direction, Tavi then guides me as instructed. The partnership Tavi and I have is both powerful and empowering.”
Were there any training highlights? “The entire process from application to graduation was a highlight. Adjusting to blindness comes with some anxiety; however, with the processes Guiding Eyes has in place, I was able to fly solo for the first time since losing my sight. Everyone at Guiding Eyes is professional, and the culture of the campus is just incredible! Both trainers I worked with, Michelle and Shannon, were capable and passionate educators. I left thinking of them not just as instructors, but as friends. The entire staff, regardless of their role, reminded me of the many first responders I’ve worked with. They approach their profession as a calling with a servant’s heart.”
DOB: 3/4/2023
Litter ID: 2T23
Color/Breed: Black/German Shepherd
Gender: Male
Brood: Xena
Stud: Kodiak TSE
Littermates: Techno, Tarot, Tiago, Tempo, Turbo
Region: Cleveland West
Regional Puppy Instructor: Macy Nauman
Puppy Raiser: Leslie Stephens & Family
Facebook: Ohio Puppy Raisers
“Any day spent with you is my favorite” – (Winnie the Pooh) Tavi was so much fun to take out and about. I loved watching him learn and experience new things. One of my favorite qualities about Tavi is his loving spirit. He was always up for lots of pets and activity. ~ Leslie Stephens
