The Makings of a Guide Dog blog presents the path I’ve followed over the past 35 years with different guide dogs. It includes stories of our successes, challenges, and the circumstances that ultimately led to our parting ways. Seven great dogs spread out over 34 years and counting.

The blog also explores the year (2019) I spent with CNIB Guide Dog program officials working with eight young guide dog trainees. My goal was to train the trainers the things I would normally teach my new guide dogs after arriving home – guiding techniques specifically geared to life in the outdoors. At the end of the year, I was matched with one of the successful guide dog trainees. The entire process was captured on video.

Each of my seven guide dogs have been different, amazing, and my best friend. They include: