Visitors from Hong Kong School

Guiding Eyes is widely recognized for its exceptional knowledge-sharing practices, especially in the fields of breeding and genetics, as a global leader in these areas. Many service dog schools from all over the world have sought our guidance and training on various aspects of our processes. Our expertise includes state-of-the-art techniques in Cryogenics, as well as STEP, (Successive Training & Enrichment Program), our unique relationship-based approach to Puppy Raising, and other areas of our operations.

In March 2024, Guiding Eyes welcomed two guests from Hong Kong Seeing Eye Dog Services (HKSEDS), Choi Hiu Yan Meicy, “Meicy” and Hey Mong Wee, “Ivy”.  HKSEDS is a small, young guide dog school that breeds only 2-3 litters annually. This internship would enable Meicy and Ivy to gain increased knowledge of the breeding, socialization, and raising of puppies. Their 2-plus week experience was funded in part by the International Guide Dog Foundation’s (IGDF) Derek Freeman Scholarship Fund. Guiding Eyes has been one of the most sought-after schools for these internship experiences.

The majority of Meicy and Ivy’s time was spent in the Reproduction & Cryogenics lab at the Canine Development Center learning various reproductive techniques and protocols. HKSEDS recently moved into a new kennel, so they were extremely grateful to shadow the kennels on both Guiding Eyes campuses, returning home with insight into ways to increase efficiencies and improve husbandry and care of their dogs. Their visit included experiencing In-For-Training tests, a Brood Stud Walk, puppy classes, and “Walk & Talks”, evaluations held by our Puppy Program, as well as opportunities to watch a spay and neuter and help with mating timing and breeding.

Clover Williams, our manager of Repro and Cryo, stated, “They thoroughly enjoyed every department and activity presented to them, and I am very grateful for the staff’s help in designing a robust schedule to meet their goal.”

It was a pleasure to have Meicy and Ivy as our guests at Guiding Eyes for the Blind. The staff enjoyed their stay with us and we hope it was enjoyable for them and beneficial to their organization.