Vivian and Emmylou

Meet Graduate Vivian

Graduate Team:  Vivian and Emmylou
About the Team:  Emmylou, a female black Lab, is Vivian’s 2^nd Guiding Eyes dog
Location: Fall River, Massachusetts
Training: February 2023 On-Campus Training

Vivian returns to Guiding Eyes for her second guide dog, Emmylou, having retired Sas, her guide dog since 2014. She is currently a student, studying online at a theological institute. Vivian is a member of a Christian church called Master Builder Ministries and volunteers there as the Women’s Ministry Leader. Vivian is Brazilian, and she and her husband live near the southern shore of Massachusetts in Fall River, with Emmylou, Sas and their little Maltipoo, Billy. When she has free time, she enjoys spending it with them and going for walks.  

How would you describe your guide dog? “My guide dog Emmylou is very cuddly, she has a silly personality, very playful, and loves to be close to me.”

What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes?  “I decided to apply to Guiding Eyes because of the support and care they give to the graduate and to the guide dog, including funds to be used for the dog for veterinary care and medications.”

How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Having a guide dog gave me independence, company, and emotional and social support.

Were there any training highlights? “There was a very interesting and sweet moment during our training. Emmylou crossed my way to prevent me from falling down the stairs when we were training in a shopping mall.

Meet Guide Dog Emmylou

DOB:  12/17/2020
Litter ID: 3E320
Color/Breed:  Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Female
Brood: Nell
Stud: Oreo
Littermates: Everley, Elijah, Ensign, Edsel, Eleanor, Elmo, Epic
Region:  Central NY
Regional Puppy Instructor: MeKalea Chambliss
Puppy Raiser:  Ms. Julia Peschka, The Oonk Family
Facebook: Central NY Puppy Raisers

From the Puppy Raiser…

Emmylou was the perfect puppy for me to raise. The words I would use to describe Emmylou as a puppy are easy going, thoughtful, smart and fun with just the right amount of silliness. Puppy raising for Guiding Eyes can be like having a second family. I am so happy Emmylou can now be part of your family! ~ Julia Peschka, Puppy Raiser

Emmylou is such a sweet girl! As a puppy on program she was always such a pleasure to work with and have at home. Everyone loved her! It was so much fun to see her blossom and we are so proud of her. Wishing you and Emmylou many safe and happy adventures. ~ Mary Oonk, Secondary Raiser

Photos of the Team…