Viridiana and Quintessa

Meet Graduate Viridiana

Graduate Team:  Viridiana and Quintessa
About the Team:  Quintessa: female yellow Lab; Viridiana’s 2^nd guide dog, and 1^st from Guiding Eyes
Location: Illinois
Training: December 2024 On-Campus

Viridiana is a student at National Louis University, pursuing a degree in secondary education with a minor in English and bilingual studies. She is currently in her last semester and is student teaching at a nearby high school. The summer of 2025 is particularly eventful for her, as she is preparing for both her graduation and her wedding day in August! When the warmer months roll around, Viri embraces activities outdoors such as walking, hiking, kayaking, and exploring caves. She and Quintessa are sure to have many exciting adventures in the months ahead.

How would you describe your guide dog? “Quintessa’s name is as unique as she is! She is sweet and playful like most Labs; however she is very serious at first and takes some time to warm up to new people, which I find unusual for a Labrador. It is a trait that makes her an excellent guide dog.  As a guide she is focused and professional. When she is in her harness, it is ‘go time’.  She’s also a real ‘girly girl’  and seems to enjoy shopping with me.  I recently began my student teaching at a local high school. Quintessa has her own badge, complete with her picture, identifying her as staff too!”

What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes?  “Everyone I know with a Guiding Eyes guide dog , including my fiancé and other close friends, have nothing but great things to say about their guides and the organization. I decided to apply to Guiding Eyes after my previous guide dog passed away. I’m so glad I did.  It has been a great experience and Quintessa is amazing!”

How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Quintessa is my second guide dog, and I cannot imagine living without a guide dog again. It has had a huge impact on my life; providing me with freedom and confidence. I am willing to venture to new places knowing I have buddy, (and best friend), with whom I can problem solve. For example, even when I go someplace unfamiliar, I know I can enter a room and with independence and ease find a seat.”

Were there any training highlights? “Training at the Guiding Eyes campus was wonderful in many ways. Everyone I encountered was so welcoming and willing to give their attention and time in answering my questions.  From my first walk with Quintessa, I knew she was a perfect fit. As an experienced handler, I recognize the difference between ‘pulling’ and ‘guiding’.  Quintessa guided me at a comfortable pace from the very beginning. I appreciated that the training schedule was flexible enough to incorporate those situations that best represent my daily activities. When we visited New York City, Quintessa took her job seriously and remained focused despite the holiday crowds and decorations. Another highlight was meeting Quintessa’s puppy raiser, who shared with me Quintessa’s love of squeaky toys and pup cups!”

Meet Guide Dog Quintessa

DOB:  7/21/2022
Litter ID: 2QQ22
Color/Breed:  Yellow/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Female
Brood: Coco
Stud: Arlo
Littermates: Quentin, Quarter, Quasi, Quigley, Quantas, Quinbie
Region:  New Hampshire
Regional Puppy Instructor: Lisa Bumbalo
Puppy Raiser:  The Masors Family, Montana Pouliot
Facebook: Montgomery Puppy Raisers

From the Puppy Raiser…

Quintessa’s journey through the program was a testament to her heart and determination – she’s not just a pup, but a beacon of hope, ready to guide and inspire a life of independence. ~ Montana Pouliot 

Photos of the Team…