Graduate Team: Timothy and Omar
About the Team: Omar, a male black Lab; Tims 1st guide dog
Location: Whitman, Massachusetts
Training: April 2026 On-Campus
Timothy is a native of the Boston area and an avid Boston sports fan. Before losing his vision, he trained as an electrician, working on construction projects. Tim lost his vision in early 2024 as a side effect of medication taken following his heart transplant. Despite this change, he continues to follow his favorite teams by listening to games, finding football and basketball especially enjoyable in an audio format. He is a dedicated fan of the New England Patriots and the Boston Celtics. In addition to sports, Tim enjoys visiting friends and family, spending time outdoors, and traveling.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Omar is just 2 years old. Although he is young, he works hard and is becoming an excellent guide. I find it both amazing and impressive that he stops at every curb. Omar and I are learning how to be a team. When he is not working, he is very chill and relaxed. Omar likes to run around for a minute but then enjoys sitting quietly and chewing on his bone.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “My girlfriend researched guide dog schools for me. Of the ones we considered, Guiding Eyes was the most geographically desirable. Then, in addition, we liked what we learned about the school’s methods and reputation.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “I definitely get out of the house more often! Omar and I have established routes in the neighborhood, including a regular excursion to the convenience store down the street. He is a great dog and has quickly become my pal!”
Were there any training highlights? “During training, I learned what Omar is capable of and, in turn, what we can do as a team. As I developed my skills as a handler, Omar demonstrated the extensive skills he had already learned. Omar proved to me he is up to any challenge; whether it was riding an escalator at Barnes & Noble, shopping in Walmart, or navigating the train and New York City. At graduation, I enjoyed meeting Omar’s puppy raiser, who traveled from Ohio to support Omar and me.”
DOB: 4/4/2024
Litter ID: 7O24
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Gwenny
Stud: Gusto
Littermates: Omega, Oshie, Oasis, Opie, Owen, Oswald
Region: Cleveland East
Regional Puppy Instructor: Macy Nauman
Puppy Raiser: Marcie Radack & Dave Martin
Facebook: Ohio Puppy Raisers
Omar was an exuberant and loveable pup! He was always up for an outdoor adventure and loved being around people. He went on hikes, played at the beach, and took many road trips to visit family and friends. At home, he never tired of dropping his toys from the top of the stairs to watch them tumble down or pulling the mat out of his crate and dragging it to just where he wanted it to be. He especially loved snuggling and having his belly rubbed. Omar was our first GEB puppy and will always hold a special place in our hearts. We are so very proud of him and excited as he begins his career as a guide dog with his new partner and best friend. ~ Marcie Radack & Dave Martin
