Monthly News Updates - Pine Tree Guide Dog Users

Welcome to Pine Tree Guide Dog Users Monthly News Updates.
Read about dog handling tips & tricks, advocacy news, favorite gear & toys, guide dog school updates, great-tasting recipes and more!

Close-up of yellow Lab looking at camera with a hand holding the harness

2023 Monthly News Updates

2022 Monthly News Updates

2024 News Updates List
November 2024
October 2024
September 2024
August 2024
July 2024
June 2024
May 2024
April 2024
March 2024
February 2024
January 2024

November 2024

Welcome to the Pine Tree Guide Dog Users Monthly News Update, a nationally recognized publication for guide dog handlers and others interested in the guide dog movement. To offer submissions or feedback, please send us a message.

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

Alert. It’s time to renew your PTGDU membership for 2025. Visit us online to pay by PayPal, debit card, or credit card. You can also pay by check, just make it payable to Pine Tree Guide Dog Users, and mail to P.O. Box 6157, Falmouth, ME 04105. Annual dues are $20 per person.
Cedar, noble fir, holly berries and more. Share the joy of the season and take part in this year’s national Guide Dog Users festive fundraiser. Choose from three beautiful holiday decorations delivered fresh from the Pacific Northwest directly to your door. The last day to order is Thursday, November 14.
Get a double paws up! From biscuits to pupcakes, learn how to bake your own dog treats from scratch from the experts at King Arthur Baking.
Ready for a little retail therapy? Join the 9th annual Let’s Go Shopping virtual mall crawl on Friday, November 8th and Saturday, November 9th, 2024. Over a dozen small business entrepreneurs will be participating in the two-day extravaganza. A special retirement bash with deep discounts and mystery boxes will be held by KaeAnn Rausch of GuideLight Dogs as she prepares to close out her business.
Now available in digital talking book format for BARD users. Get ready to boost your dog’s confidence, improve your communication, and build your bond with your best friend. Download Victoria Stilwell’s audio book titled Train your dog positively: understand your dog and solve common behavior problems including separation anxiety, excessive barking, aggression, housetraining, leash pulling, and more. Also available on Amazon in various formats.
From Pups to Partners. On a recent episode of the Eyes on Success program, two puppy raisers from Guide Dogs for the Blind share their journey of raising guide dogs, the responsibilities involved, and the rewarding experiences of helping to shape these future heroes.
Looking for handy techniques when offering assistance to someone who is blind or low vision? Watch this video from Leader Dogs for the Blind to learn how to safely guide a blind person.
Be your dog’s very own Florence Nightingale. Whether it’s recovering from surgery; administering medications; managing bandages; or other ways of ensuring your dog’s comfort, safety, and speedy recuperation, you can learn the skills you’ll need from this recording hosted by the Usdan Institute for Animal Health Education.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Hey, hey. Ho, ho. Rideshare denials have got to go! Watch this coverage of the National Federation of the Blind’s rideshare rally as fellow guide dog handlers marched in front of Uber headquarters in San Francisco. The event was held to protest rideshare discrimination against blind people with guide dogs and white canes.
Addressing Rideshare Denials. Check out Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s new resource which provides solution-focused rideshare strategies and tips, including information about PTGDU’s educational handout for rideshare drivers.

Voluntary self-ID option. At the end of October, Uber began a six-week Service Animal Mobility Pilot Study intended to determine the impact of a new feature in their app that would give people traveling with service animals the ability to automatically identify themselves as service animal owners when requesting a trip and more easily report any denials to Uber. Feedback from the volunteer test group will help to refine this optional feature and better support the needs of riders with service animals. Lyft is also working on a similar feature and both companies have reported expanding their efforts to better educate drivers about transporting service animals.
Passion, knowledge, and drive. Guide dog handler Albert Elia, a board member of the National Association of Guide Dog Users, was recently appointed by the U.S. secretary of Transportation to serve on the Air Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee. Congratulations Al, thank you for your continued efforts to improve the air travel experience for those of us with guide dogs.
Traveling by air this holiday season? You can find a state-by-state listing of both indoor and outdoor service animal and pet relief areas at U.S. airports on the Pet Friendly Travel website.
When disaster strikes. Being prepared for emergencies of any kind often comes down to planning what you and your guide dog will need if your lives are unexpectedly disrupted. You can find out more from the ADA National Network.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

White Pine Outfitters Soft Web Collars

Silky soft, strong, and machine washable, the White Pine Outfitters Soft Web Collars are 100% nylon and come in a variety of vibrant colors. The Soft Web Combo Collar combines the control of a slip collar with the ease of a side-release buckle and the Soft Web Slip Collar offers maximum control. (When fitted correctly, the dog will feel the collar tighten, but not to the point of choking, and the dog will not be able to back out of the collar.) The sturdy nylon adjustment slides, D-rings, buckles and stitching are all in black. Will not damage, cut or discolor neck fur, even when wet. Available in various widths and sizes. The 9/16-inch and 1-inch collars are suitable for larger dogs. Fit and Safety tips can be found on the company’s website. $14.00 and up.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Recommended by a PTGDU member, this smooth and creamy, golden-orange bread pudding gets rave reviews every time.

Ingredients

1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin purée

6 large eggs

2 cups light cream or half-and-half

1 cup milk

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup light brown sugar or dark brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup rum, optional

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon ginger

1/4 teaspoon cloves

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

8 cups stale bread, cut in ¾ inch cubes

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the eggs, pumpkin, cream, milk, sugars, rum, salt, spices, and vanilla.
Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish or a 9″ x 13″ pan. (If you’re going to refrigerate the pudding before baking, be sure to use a dish that can go from the fridge to a hot oven.
Place the cubed bread in the dish in an even layer, and pour the liquid mixture over it. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, or for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
When you’re ready to bake the pudding, stir it together to redistribute the custard; quite a bit of it will have been absorbed by the bread.
Sprinkle with grated nutmeg, and bake in a preheated 350°F oven until set and beginning to brown, about 40 to 50 minutes.
Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream; garnish with minced crystallized ginger.

About Us

This monthly news update is a publication of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization serving Maine’s blind and low vision residents who are partnered with specially trained guide dogs. Founded in 1997, PTGDU’s mission is to promote complete acceptance of guide dog teams in all aspects of life. Visit us on the web or follow us on Facebook.

October 2024

Welcome to the Pine Tree Guide Dog Users monthly news update, a nationally recognized publication for guide dog handlers and others interested in the guide dog movement. To offer submissions or feedback, please send us a message.

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

Join the pack! Become a member of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users now and receive three free months! Dues paid after October 1st of this year will provide membership in PTGDU through December 31st 2025. Sign up today!
Come one, come all! PTGDU’s annual Fall Membership Meeting will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, November 6^th at 6:30 PM EST. All members and friends are welcome. Drop us a line for the Zoom link and meeting agenda.
Be aware! October has long been an important month for raising awareness about the safety and capacity of blind people. Watch our Facebook page for informative posts related to White Cane Safety Day and Blind Equality Achievement Month.
Back to school. Check out our Guide Dogs in Action Educational Series, as a guide dog team makes a trip to the country store. Learn what challenges they’ll face and how the guide dog uses its skills to navigate a variety of situations along the way. The series includes free classroom materials and supplemental information for teachers and other presenters.
Let’s get moving. Ron Brooks, a long-time guide dog handler, a 30-year veteran of the public transit industry, and author of the newly released book, All Aboard: Conducting Accessible Community Involvement for Public Transit, will be a featured speaker at the ACB Maine convention on November 2, from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Send a message to Linda if you wish to get more information or to register for the event.
A world of hurt. Our dogs can’t tell us when they’re in pain, but they do show signs that can help us detect their discomfort. Learn more about recognizing ways that pets display pain and tips on when to contact your vet.
Slim down your hound! Does your dog need to lose weight? Check out the American Veterinary Hospital Association’s practical and proven tips to help your furry friend reach a healthy weight.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Be an advocate. Visit PTGDU’s Educational Corner to download helpful information to hand out to your local businesses, healthcare providers, and Uber/Lyft drivers. You can also share or react to our educational posts pinned to the top of our Facebook page.
Planning a trip to another country? Before you go, you’ll need to complete certain paperwork or tasks for your dog. Meeting these requirements takes time, so check the APHIS Pet Travel Website for your destination country’s entry requirements, or contact your veterinarian for help as soon as you decide to travel.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Fiebings Saddle Soap

Soften, protect, and restore. A trusted brand in leather care since 1895, Fiebings Yellow Saddle Soap paste is a multipurpose leather cleaner and conditioner designed to restore shine and extend the life of all of your leather goods — including your dog’s leather harness and leash. For best results, simply rub a dampened sponge or cloth onto the surface of the paste to create a lather. Then, apply the lather to the leather in a circular motion, working in small sections at a time. After cleaning a section, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any excess saddle soap residue. $7.50 for a 3.5-ounce tin.

Guide Dog School Updates

This section offers brief updates about guide dog schools in the United States and beyond.

Honoring our heroes. Congratulations to Guide Dog Mobility Instructors Chris Mattoon from The Seeing Eye and Marc Gillard from Guide Dogs for the Blind who were both recognized with the Ethel Bender Award by Guide Dog Users, Inc. This special award honors those who have provided significant service to the cause of enhancing the well-being of the guide dog and handler community. Listen to these two remarkable men accept their well-deserved award.
Viral Sensation. ‘Pip’, The Wildly Popular Animated video short by Dogs Inc (formerly Southeastern Guide Dogs), reached over half a billion views last month. This charming guide dog puppy video is also available with audio description.
Dress for Success. Leader Dogs for the Blind September Collaboration Event featured NOA made by Biped.ai, an all-in-one mobility vest worn on the shoulders, with wide-angle cameras on the left of your chest, a small computer on the right, and a battery behind your neck. Learn how this hands-free device can complement travel with both white canes and guide dogs.
Top dog. Congratulations and best wishes to Karen Leies, the recently named Chief Executive Officer of The Seeing Eye guide dog school in Morristown, New Jersey. Leies brings more than 25 years of experience with non-profit organizations and plans to begin her new role on November 1^st.
School round-up. Over a dozen guide dog school representatives shared information about their programs during the Guide Dog Users, Inc. convention. Check out the recently uploaded recording of this event.
From Asia to Australia. Listen to representatives from Hong Kong Guide Dogs Association and Stapell Guide Dogs to learn more about Guide Dogs Beyond Our Borders.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

Pumpkin PUP-Sicles for Dogs

Fidelco guide dog foundation

This pumpkin-filled recipe was created by Fidelco staff for their guide dogs in-training to enjoy at the end of the day.

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/2 tablespoon honey

3 cups prepared instant potatoes

1-1/2 cups dog’s favorite kibble

6 tablespoons water

6 (12 oz.) plastic cups

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin with the peanut butter and honey and stir until well blended. Then layer the following into each plastic cup:

1/4 cup kibble

1/2 cup instant potatoes

5 tablespoons pumpkin mixture

1 tablespoon water on top

Place cups in freezer until frozen. Remove from plastic cup before serving!

About Us

September 2024

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

SAVE THE DATE. PTGDU will hold its fall membership meeting on November 6 at 6:30 PM ET, via Zoom.
Coming soon! Maine’s 29th Annual White Cane Walk will be held on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2024 in Portland. Get more details about the event from The Iris Network.
Another date to remember. ACB Maine will hold its fall convention on Saturday, November 2 from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM in Waterville, Maine at the Best Western. A block of rooms for Friday and Saturday night have been reserved for attendees wishing to visit with friends before and after the convention program. PTGDU is offering each of its members attending the event reimbursement of up to $100.00 for lodging or transportation expenses, from the Ellis – McKenna Memorial Fund. Watch for more details.
Transportation challenges affecting your life? The Moving Maine Network is collecting personal stories from Mainers to help educate decision-makers about transportation barriers, and to increase their support for solutions. Please share your story!
The big picture. Want to know more about what it’s like to live and work with a guide dog? Join Maine Cite’s next webinar on September 25^th, featuring presenter Melissa Carney, Community Outreach & Graduate Support Manager for Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Get more details or register for the event with Maine Cite.
Boost your bond! From daily routines to playful activities, these top 10 tips from the experts at Guiding Eyes for the Blind can help to strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Celebration of life. Honor your beloved animal companions; find comfort in community, and listen to Craig Grossi, author of Craig & Fred: A Marine, A Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other, at this year’s Animal Medical Center’s pet memorial event, to be held on Tuesday, September 17^th, via Zoom.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Hitting the road. The National Federation of the Blind recently voted in a resolution to call upon members of Congress to work with the National Federation of the Blind to pass legislation that would create a national framework for autonomous vehicles that ensures equal access to transportation for blind and low-vision people, addresses potential access barriers to the use of autonomous vehicles by blind and disabled people, and promotes the inclusion of blind people in the testing and continued development phases of autonomous vehicle technology.
Veterans Affairs facilities. Looking for access requirements for individuals with service dogs in VA health facilities, Vet Centers, regional offices, and other properties owned or leased by the VA? Download the Veterans Health Administration Directive for more details about the access of animals on VHA property.

Submissions From Members & Friends

This section features contributions shared by PTGDU members and friends.

Disability Community and the Power of Friendship

Submitted by PTGDU member, Courtney Tabor

Growing up as a blind child in a tiny town, I didn’t know many others with vision loss. Adults tried to engage me in activities for blind youth, but I insisted that I had no need for blind friends.

As I progressed through young adulthood and later into motherhood, I found that blindness can be powerfully isolating. Navigating one new challenge after another, I often felt quite alone. How do I get to my college class when the sidewalks aren’t cleared of snow? How do I frost cupcakes and not make them look awful? Why is it so hard to just take my kids to the playground? It was easy to believe a narrative of my own incompetence when none of my sighted peers had the same struggles.

I have dramatically strengthened my confidence since then, and one of the great gifts of that growth is the connections I’ve built to others with vision loss.

Nowadays, when I spend hours of frustration on inaccessible forms just to file my taxes, my blind friends can relate. When I am distractedly rushing down the sidewalk and face-plant into a thornbush, I offer a sheepish grin to passersby and then text my blind friends so they can laugh along with me.

This week, during a quiet minute in an otherwise packed workday, a dear friend and colleague shared with me a proud moment from her own life with vision loss. We do this sometimes, two blind women catching quick opportunities to hold each other’s joy or heartache, then going on with our days, feeling lighter and more loved. Our deep mutual empathy nurtures belonging and trust. This is the beauty of disability community. Friendships like these remind me of our common strength and worth, and inspire me to live with authenticity and joy.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

BedSure Orthopedic Dog Bed

Sweet dreams! Give your precious pooch unparalleled support for a deep, dreamy sleep with this #1 Best Selling orthopedic dog bed on Amazon. The BedSure dog bed is designed with a non-skid bottom and a high-density egg-crate foam mattress encased in a waterproof liner. The rectangle-shaped bed has bolsters on all sides with a lowered front entrance. Wrapped in a velvety soft flannel fabric, the standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified dog bed consists of CertiPUR-US certified foam and luxurious material, creating a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend to rest and recharge. Large size measures 35 x 25 x 7 inches. Available in a variety of colors. $45.00.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

The Seeing Eye

Spicy Stuffed Peppers with Chicken

Red, green, orange, or yellow, these colorful chicken stuffed bell peppers with a south-of-the-border flair will spice up any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

5 large bell peppers, similarly sized in mixed colors

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened

2 large eggs

1-1/2 tablespoons heavy cream

2-1/2 cups shredded, cooked chicken breast

1-1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced

1 teaspoon jalapeno, seeded and minced

1 clove garlic, minced

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup chicken broth

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease large roasting pan and set aside. Cut bell peppers in half and remove cores and seeds. Select two different-colored pepper halves, dice and reserve for stuffing.

In mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, eggs and cream on medium speed until combined. Stir in reserved diced peppers, cheese, scallions, jalapeno, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and stir in chicken until well combined. Fill each pepper half with chicken mixture.

Place in prepared pan and carefully pour chicken broth around the peppers. Bake for 50 minutes, or until peppers are wrinkled but still shaped.

About Us

This monthly news update is a publication of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization serving Maine’s blind and visually impaired residents who are partnered with specially trained guide dogs. Founded in 1997, PTGDU’s mission is to promote complete acceptance of guide dog teams in all aspects of life. Visit us on the web or follow us on Facebook.

August 2024

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

What’s up, Doc? Our newest educational flyer, titled What Healthcare Providers Need to Know about Patients with Guide Dogs, offers tips for interacting with blind or low vision patients who are accompanied by a guide dog. The photo in the flyer, courtesy of The Seeing Eye, depicts a nurse taking a blind woman’s blood pressure while her black Lab guide dog rests quietly under the chair. Read, print, and share the flyer with staff in your healthcare network. Additional resources for healthcare providers are also available on our website.
Bonjour! Our professionally designed rideshare handout and poster, told from the perspective of a guide dog, is now available in French. The handout is intended to help drivers learn more about guide dogs and what to expect when transporting these highly trained animals. The rideshare flyer is also available in English and Spanish.
By land, air, or sea. If you’re planning to travel out of the country with your dog, be sure to take a look at the CDC’s new requirements to return to the US or check out The Seeing Eye webinar/transcript on traveling with your guide dog.
Vision: a memoir of blindness and justice. In this riveting new memoir, guide dog handler David Tatel shares his story of coping with blindness and fighting for justice. Tatel’s anecdotes and honest insights from his service as a judge on the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit are especially informative, revealing, and entertaining. But it may very well be the last chapter on Vixen, his heroic guide dog, that steals your heart! Available in hardcover, audio, Kindle and on BARD.
Living Blindfully. PTGDU member Nicholas Giudice talks autonomous vehicles and robot guide dogs with Jonathan Mosen, a well-known and trusted voice in the blind community. Listen to the interview on Living Blindfully – a podcast about living your best life with blindness and low vision.
Stone fruit, shish kebabs and corn on the cob. When you’re planning your next backyard picnic, learn what foods can be hazardous to your dog. For instance, foods on sticks like hors d’oeuvres on toothpicks or meat and vegetables on wooden skewers can be exceptionally treacherous.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Splish splash. Did you know that gyms, fitness centers, hotels, and municipalities that have swimming pools are not required to allow a service animal in the pool with its handler? The ADA does not override public health rules that prohibit dogs in swimming pools. However, service animals must be allowed on the pool deck and in other areas where the public is allowed to go.
Healthcare guidelines. Looking for detailed guidance for safe practices concerning access for patients, visitors, and employees with service animals? Check out Section 3 of the CDC Environmental Infection Control Guidelines for animals in Healthcare Facilities.

Tips & Tricks

This section features an array of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

Spa & fitness. Working out at the gym, or treating yourself to a massage? Consider bringing along a pop-up crate in your backpack to safely tuck your dog away while you’re otherwise occupied. It helps to protect your dog from being inadvertently stepped on or petted by nearby dog lovers.
Switch it up. Is your light-colored dog’s fur getting discolored from constantly wearing its stainless-steel collar? One way to avoid staining is to switch out the steel collar to another type of collar when you’re at home. Just keep your steel collar with your harness when not in use and be sure to have ID tags on both collars.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Fluff & Tuff Georgia Gator

From shaking to squeaking to tug-of-war, Fluff & Tuff’s Georgia gator can do it all. This large green plush dog toy has embroidered eyes and measures 18 inches in length. The outer layer is ultra-plush and covers the durable thick mesh inner liner. $22.00.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

Blueberry Muffins

A favorite recipe made with Maine’s iconic wild blueberries.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

3/4 cup sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups fresh wild Maine blueberries, dusted with 1 tablespoon of flour

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup whole milk

Topping

2 tablespoons of sugar

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin and set aside. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Add vanilla. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the creamed mixture until just blended. Gently fold in Blueberries. Scoop batter into tin. Mix together the topping ingredients and sprinkle on top of muffins. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes. Cool for five minutes before removing muffins from the pan. Note: To give the muffins a blue tinge, mash 1/2 cup of the blueberries before folding into batter.

About Us

July 2024

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

Congratulations to PTGDU officer Pauline Lamontagne! On June 29^th, Pauline was honored with the prestigious Guide Dog Users, Inc. Moffitt – Gleitz Award in recognition of her significant contributions to the well-being and advancement of guide dog teams. Her exemplary work on both the national and state levels has been of great value to all of us!
New! What Rideshare Drivers Need to Know About Guide Dogs. This fun, easy to read handout, told from the perspective of a guide dog, is intended to help drivers learn more about guide dogs and what to expect when transporting these highly trained animals. Available in English and Spanish. Many thanks to Guide Dogs for the Blind, Leader Dogs for the Blind, The Seeing Eye, and to many others who contributed to this handout. Download and share this helpful flyer with rideshare drivers, paratransit services partnering with rideshare companies, etc., or visit our Facebook page to like and share the flyer on your own page.
Patriotic Perils. July Fourth festivities are full of food, fireworks, and fun, but they can also pose many hazards for your dogs. Follow these tips from the American Animal Hospital Association to help your furry friend enjoy the celebration safely.
Doggy Down under. PTGDU member and expat American Bonnie Mosen shares her adventures when moving to New Zealand with her Seeing Eye dog, including the challenges of living in another country and the process of training with a successor dog from the United States. Read Bonnie’s story and more on our website.
Sit, stay, down! Looking for dog training tips from an expert? Check out the book, Buck’s Best Dog: Private Dog Training and Socialization Groups: A Comprehensive Approach to Training Your Dog, written by Graham Buck, a former Guiding Eyes for the Blind guide dog mobility instructor with 31 years of experience. Graham will be the featured guest at the next Guide Dog Book Club discussion, scheduled for Wednesday, July 17 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern. Send a message to guidedogbookclub@gmail.com for the Zoom information.
Save the date. The Iris Network will be hosting Maine’s 29th annual White Cane Walk for Awareness in Portland on Saturday, October 12, 2024.
A Partnership Like No Other. A successful partnership between a blind person and a guide dog blends both human and canine skills. Visit our Guide Dogs in Action Educational Series page and check out our supplemental information document for a detailed overview of how guide dog teams get around safely and independently.
Scoop the poop! Dog waste doesn’t just decompose. It adds harmful bacteria and nutrients to local waters when it’s not bagged up and disposed of properly. Find out more about this source of pollution from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

New rideshare resource. PTGDU’s General Overview: Rideshare Discrimination against Blind Riders with Guide Dogs briefly summarizes the various aspects of rideshare discrimination and provides links to supporting materials for further investigation. Topics include reasons rideshare drivers use to deny service to guide dog teams, how these refusals impact the lives of people with visual disabilities, discrimination statistics, and more.
Service animal policies. Accessible Avenue, a consulting and training service that helps to increase accessibility for people with disabilities, offers guidelines for creating a comprehensive service animal policy that Affirms Civil Rights and Protects Against Fraud.
Rideshare Podcast. Listen to the Guide Dogs for the Blind Central Bark podcast as GDB Alumni Association Manager, Amy Salger, and Lead Researcher, Melba Vélez-Ortiz, share the staggering results of their rideshare survey and what GDB is doing to ensure that rideshare companies are held accountable for these egregious actions.

Tips & Tricks

This section features an array of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

Trouble getting those sticky, plastic doggy waste bags open? Just touch your dog’s wet nose or let the dog lick your fingers. Then hold the top edges of the bag near the opening between your moistened thumb and first two fingers. Rub your thumb and fingers back and forth until the bag edges slide apart.
On the go. Need an emergency water dish for your dog? Fill an unscented (and unused!) doggy waste bag with cool, refreshing water and hold it wide open while your dog gets a drink.
Tick trick. Use a sticky pet hair roller on your dog (or yourself) immediately after spending time in the woods or tall grass to remove stray ticks that may have climbed on during your outing. Your dog’s monthly preventative will kill ticks that bite the dog. But preventatives do not repel ticks. That means a tick could come indoors on your dog, and potentially drop off to attach itself to a nearby human.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Earth Rated Grab & Go Dog Waste Bags

Extra-long, extra strong and 100% leak-proof. A top favorite among dog lovers, these Earth Rated Grab & Go bags come in a Convenient tissue-style dispensing box. They’re made from 65% certified post-consumer recycled plastic, giving a second life to more than 5 million pounds of landfill-bound plastic each year. The thick textured plastic makes the bags easy to open. Measures 13 inches long by 8 inches wide. Available in unscented or lavender scented. Price for 300 count is $15.00.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

The Seeing Eye

Nancy’s Banana Split Trifle

This scrumptious dessert was a first prize winner at one of The Seeing Eye’s staff bakeoff contests — definitely a crowd pleaser.

Ingredients

1 (16 oz.) frozen pound cake, thawed and cut into ½-inch cubes

1 (32 oz.) pkg. half and half

2 (3.4 oz.) pkgs. vanilla instant pudding mix

3 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced

2 cups (1 pint) sliced strawberries (optional)

1 cup hot fudge ice cream topping

1 king size English toffee bar, crushed into bits

Directions

1. Combine instant pudding and half and half in a large bowl. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes and set aside. In a separate bowl, toss together sliced bananas and strawberries until evenly distributed.

2. Layer the ingredients in a trifle bowl or large glass bowl (about 4 inches high and 10 inches in diameter) starting with half of the cubed pound cake, followed by half of the fruit, and then half of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers.

3. Microwave the hot fudge sauce on high for 20 seconds at a time until just warm and pour over the top. Sprinkle with toffee bits and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

About Us

June 2024

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

Robotic Guide dogs? Congratulations to PTGDU member Dr. Nicholas Giudice for co-authoring an award-winning paper that features the first user-driven guidelines on the needs and design specifications for robot guide dogs. Learn more about Dr. Giudice’s research on robotic guide dogs and making autonomous vehicles accessible for blind and low vision users.
Place your bids! The Seeing Eye’s 95th Anniversary Online Auction is now live through June 11th. From loads of dog gear to cool products for the blind and much more, there is something for everyone in this well stocked auction.
Tasty treats or trouble? Billions of cicadas are just starting to emerge after hanging out in the ground for well over a decade. They’ll crawl up nearby trees, shed their final exoskeletons, and fly to the upper branches where the males will sing their super loud mating calls. These beetle-like bugs may not bite or sting but dogs who overindulge in these large crunchy morsels will likely suffer some nasty health consequences. Find out what you need to know about dogs and cicadas from Guide Dogs for the Blind.
The magic of discovery. You can now visit Our Personal Stories page to read a touching excerpt from guide dog handler Michael Moran’s new book, I Did It Without Looking: A Blind Man’s Recovery from Addiction. In this heart-warming piece, Michael captures the magic and wonder of learning to love and trust his very first Seeing Eye dog.
The golden years. While senior dog age depends on factors like breed and size, most dogs are generally considered “senior” around age seven. Join California’s Golden State Guide Dog Handlers on Monday, June 3, at 8:00 PM ET via Zoom to learn more about age-related health challenges faced by German shepherds, Labs, and goldens.
If dogs could talk . . . and apparently some do! Listen to freelance writer and author Mark Carlson as he discusses his life and book, Confessions of a Guide Dog – The Blonde Leading the Blind. Thanks to the Guiding Eyes Alumni Association’s Guide Dog Book Club for making this recording available.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

PreCheck for Guide Dogs? The FAA Reauthorization Act, recently signed into law, requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal handlers the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Enrolling in this program will eliminate the need for handlers to complete the service animal forms for each flight. Thanks to PTGDU’s advocacy team for submitting letters of support for this pilot program.
Access challenges on the rise? The Seeing Eye’s North American Public Access Barriers Survey report is now available. Learn more about the access barriers that guide dog teams encounter in public places, rideshares, and air travel.
Planning a trip abroad? Be aware that traveling internationally with your guide dog just got more complicated. Check out the new CDC’s travel requirements that go into effect on August 1^st or contact your guide dog school for more details.

Communication Tips from the Experts

This section offers tips from the guide dog schools about successfully communicating with your guide dog.

Perfect Praise

This month our friends from Guiding Eyes for the Blind remind us to think about the way in which we deliver praise to our dogs. According to the experts, if you use the same exact phrasing all the time when giving praise, this can create a problem. One of two things will most likely occur. The dog will develop a slow or low-level response to praise or in the case of food rewards, link the exact phrasing to receiving a food reward every time. We want the praise and food reward to hold value. By varying your praise wording it will help with keeping the dog working and responding properly. For example, Good Boy, that’s it, who’s my buddy, way to go etc.

Also, think about how you use inflection with your voice. By changing the wording, you have to concentrate more on what you are saying to the dog and how it is being delivered.

Finally, reward good response! If you reward weak or mediocre responses expect weak or mediocre work. If you reward good responses expect good work.

Tips & Tricks

This section features an array of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

Protect those paws! When dining out in a crowded restaurant, ask to be seated next to a wall or in areas with the least amount of foot traffic. (Sitting with your back to the wall not only makes it easier to protect your dog’s paws, but it can also help to minimize the noise for handlers who prefer quieter settings.) Another tip is to use your foot or pack to block others from getting too close to the dog’s paws. This also helps to keep your dog from stretching its paw into an aisle.
Maui Jim for the win! Hands down, Maui Jim’s polarized sunglasses made the top of the list on a recent Facebook request for the most preferred sunglasses for those with light sensitivity.
Letting go. One reader writes about a special ritual she performs when letting go of a guide dog. To start, purchase a small change purse with an ID window. Once you have the pouch, put your school ID card into the ID window and your dog’s working collar inside the zippered portion of the pouch. A tuft of your dog’s fur can also be placed in the pouch. Once filled, tuck the pouch in a drawer or in another place where it can easily be remembered.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Vera Bradley Zip ID Case

Flamingoes, daisies and more! This perfect little zippered pouch is just right for quick errands. Tuck your cards inside the ID window, hook your keys to the ring, and toss a little cash into the interior pocket. Then slip the little cotton case in your pocket when you’re ready to go. Comes in a variety of designs. May also be used to store dog waste bags or used as a keepsake pouch for a cherished guide dog as mentioned above in the Tips & Tricks section. Measures 5-inches by 3-inches. $18.00.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

Fresh Strawberry Pie

Cool and refreshing, this tantalizing pie with its bright berry flavor is a favorite during Maine’s strawberry picking season.

Ingredients

1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced in half

1/2 cup water

1 cup granulated sugar

4 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Whipped cream for garnish

Directions

Arrange half of the strawberries into the pie crust and set aside. In a small saucepan on medium heat, simmer the other half of the berries in 1/2 cup water for about 4 minutes. Slightly crush berries with the back of a spoon. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together sugar and corn starch. Add lemon juice and just enough cold water to form a paste. Stir well and add to hot strawberry mixture. Cook, stirring often, until thick and bubbly. Cool slightly and pour over berries in pie crust. Chill for about 2 hours or until set. To serve, top with whipped cream.

About Us

This/ monthly news update is a publication of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization serving Maine’s blind and visually impaired residents who are partnered with specially trained guide dogs. Founded in 1997, PTGDU’s mission is to promote complete acceptance of guide dog teams in all aspects of life. Visit us on the web or follow us on Facebook.

May 2024

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

You (yes, you!) are just the person we want to hear from. Drop us a note if you have suggestions for the etiquette tip sheet we’re working on for health care providers.
Safety first. Our dogs are cherished family members, and their safety during emergencies is a top priority, whether it’s a natural disaster, power outage, or an unexpected event. Find out how to prepare an emergency kit for your dog.
Take a chance. Win a playful plush guide dog decked out in a beautifully handmade leather harness created by Hava. The silly black Lab is poised to pounce, and measures 24-inches from nose to tail. Get your tickets and support Guide Dog Users, Inc. today!
More Bad Days Than Good? We all want to ensure that our dogs receive the best possible care and support in their final life stage. Read these tips on how to make your dog’s last days special.
Roll the dice? Not sure which app to choose when it comes to Good Maps outdoors, Apple Maps, Voice Vista, Moovit, and OKO? Listen to The Lighthouse for the Blind’s webinar on essential technology for blind travelers and find out what works best for you.
Myth busters. Listen to Hadley’s audio podcast to hear about experiences with guide dogs and some common misperceptions about them.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

It’s almost graduation time! Whether you’re a soon-to-be-graduate, or one of the many who will be attending someone’s big event, just remember there are laws that protect your right to be accompanied by your guide dog in educational institutions.
Wonder what to do about uncontrolled pet dogs in stores and other public venues? Here are some tips for dealing with these negative encounters.
The results are in. Findings from the Guide Dogs for the Blind rideshare survey revealed more than 83 percent of their graduates had been denied access by rideshare drivers, with many stating they had been denied multiple times. Find the full survey results here.
More bad news. Rideshare denials are happening worldwide. Guide Dogs Australia conducted research to identify instances of unfair treatment or discrimination. As revealed in the survey, overall, 70% of guide dog handlers experienced challenges in public places and of those experiencing issues, 46% reported rideshare denials and 34% reported cancelled rides.

Communication Tips from the Experts

This section offers tips from the guide dog schools about successfully communicating with your guide dog.

Consistency is Key

This month our friends at Guide Dogs for the Blind remind us all that consistency is crucial in communicating clearly with a dog. Dogs do not understand inconsistent rules or expectations. After experiencing initial confusion or frustration, dogs can actually become indifferent or anxious towards someone handling them inconsistently. For instance, allowing a dog to jump up on you when you have on old clothes means to the dog that it is always okay to jump up on you . . . even when you are in your best clothes. Dogs do not understand that a certain behavior is okay only “some of the time”. A random reprimand would not be fair, and unreliable signals from you may result in your dog “tuning you out”.

Tips & Tricks

This section features an array of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

Dog hair hints. When away from home, groom your dog in the hotel bathroom where the excess hair can be easily wiped up with a few facial tissues. Using a dry Swiffer cloth from home works even better. Just keep the cloth tucked inside a resealable plastic sandwich bag and store with your grooming tools when not in use.
Stinky dog breath? Spread a bit of doggie toothpaste with a dab of coconut oil over the grooves and soft bristles of a lick mat to “brush” your dog’s tongue. Getting rid of the bacteria can help to freshen up your dog’s breath.
Mobility babble. When going about with another guide dog team, it can help if the handler in the lead “talks to” or praises the guide dog a little louder and a little more often to provide audible cues for the team that is following.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Zwig by West Paw Design

Chew, catch or carry! Built for moderate chewers, the West Paw Zwig toy stick is a favorite with many of the Guiding Eyes pups being raised here in Maine. The Zwig’s twisty, hollow squishy feel makes it perfect for fetch and water play. It measures 13.75-inches in length. Non-toxic & dishwasher safe (top rack). Made with zero-waste in Bozeman, Montana. Available in jungle green, eggplant purple, and melon orange. $19.00.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

The Seeing Eye

Jen’s Brownie Trifle

Sure to satisfy even the most extreme chocoholics!

Ingredients

1 regular-size box of favorite brownie mix

1 (32 oz.) pkg. heavy cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 (5.1 oz.) box chocolate instant pudding mix

1/2 cup water

1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

Cocoa powder and mini chocolate morsels for garnish

Instructions

Prepare brownies according to package. Cool and cut into 2-inch squares.
In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix, water and condensed milk until well-blended. Fold 1/3 of the whipped cream into pudding mixture.
To assemble trifle, layer half of the brownies, then half of the pudding mixture, and then half of the whipped cream in a trifle bowl or large glass bowl. Repeat same layers with remaining ingredients. Top with a dusting of cocoa powder and mini chocolate chips, if desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours before serving.

About Us

April 2024

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

We’re in the news! Many thanks to MaineBiz.com, a leading source of news for Maine business owners and decision makers, for publishing an extensive piece about the access challenges faced by businesses and people accompanied by legitimate service animals and for highlighting PTGDU’s new service animal flyer. Read Maine businesses may be barking up the wrong tree when dealing with service animals. The Portland Press Herald also shared information about our new service animal flyer for businesses. A big shout out to PTGDU member Bonnie Mosen for writing an excellent press release about our flyer.
Preparing for the future of autonomous technology. At PTGDU’s upcoming annual spring meeting, Nicholas Giudice, PhD., Professor of Spatial Informatics at the University of Maine, and founder & Chief Research Scientist of the Virtual Environments and Multimodal Interaction Laboratory, will be discussing his team’s extensive research on making fully autonomous vehicles accessible for use by blind and low vision passengers. He will also discuss other autonomous systems and the importance of getting input and guidance from blind users in the development of these technologies. The presentation will take place on Wednesday, May 1st at 6:30 PM ET via Zoom. Everyone is welcome. For the Zoom info, please send us a message.
New in Our Personal Stories. Read this powerfully moving account of one man’s struggle to adjust to gradual vision loss. With raw honesty and genuineness, PTGDU member Steve Lambert openly shares his tumultuous path to acceptance, reconciliation, and growth.
A salute to guide dogs everywhere! International Guide Dog Day is celebrated on the last Wednesday in April each year. It marks the April 26, 1989 establishment of what is now called the International Guide Dog Federation. International Guide Dog Day is an opportunity to celebrate the work of guide dogs around the world and raise awareness of the importance of guide dog services to help people who are blind or have low vision to live life on their own terms.
Do it yourself! Owned and operated by Shelby Regan, a former Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, Pawsitive Chance professional dog training services offers virtual, fully customizable lessons for training your own guide dog. Visit PawsitiveChance.com for more information.
Free Service Animal Eye Exams. The American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) is offering free eye screenings in the month of May to service animals throughout the U.S. and Canada. For Maine residents, options include a participating Veterinary Ophthalmologist in Portland and one in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. You must register for your May exam from April 1 through April 30th.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Breaking down barriers. Several PTGDU members who travel by air, for work or recreation, have been negatively impacted by the inaccessibility and complexity of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s service animal form that many airlines currently require. Read PTGDU’s comment supporting the National Federation of the Blind’s petition to restore meaningful access to air travel for those of us who fly with guide dogs. You can also read the NFB petition and submit your own comment.
On the job. Want to know more about guide dogs in the workplace? Check out the Job Accommodation Networks publication, Accommodation and Compliance: Service Animals.
Going on a business trip? Vacation? According to question 29 on the Department of Justice’s Frequently Asked Questions About Service Animals and the ADA, hotel guests are not allowed to leave their service animals in their hotel room when they leave the hotel. The dog must be under the handler’s control at all times. Question 11 covers why hotels cannot assign designated rooms for guests with service animals, and Question 12 explains when hotels can charge a cleaning fee.

Tips & Tricks

This section features an array of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

Thinking outside the box. Looking for something a bit more stylish than wearing the same old standard treat bag from one day to the next? Try attaching your treat pouch to a purse or pack. Or you can get creative and explore non-traditional solutions like using the outer pocket of a crossbody slung over your right hip, stashing treats in a lululemon unisex belt bag, or wearing a wrist band with a zipper pocket.
Tired of wrestling with doggie waste bags when out picking up after your dog? Before heading out, simply open the bag up while you have two hands free and tuck it away for later use. If you want to prepare a bunch of opened bags in advance, a cute little tote bag hung on the back doorknob, or on a hook in a nearby closet makes a convenient storage space. The tote can also be used to store the dog’s leash or a relieving belt.
Human medications can poison your dog. Consider Keeping your medications and vitamins safely tucked away in a bureau drawer where they cannot be accidently knocked onto the floor by humans or cats. When ready to take your meds, hold the bottle over an open drawer when removing pills. This helps to ensure that any dropped pills will fall into the drawer, and not on the floor for your dog to consume.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Lymeez 3D Mesh Leg Gaiters

Stop ticks in their tracks with Lymeez leg gaiters! Recommended by one of our members who lives in the Northern Maine woods, these mesh gaiters are about 12-inches in height and worn around the lower legs when going walking, hiking, or other places where ticks may be present. The gaiters are made with mesh and treated with permethrin, a chemical designed to kill ticks and other insects. The mesh slows ticks down, leaving them exposed to permethrin for a longer amount of time. Repellency remains effective through at least 50 warm water washings. Wash gaiters separately from other clothing. Do not dry clean. Do not re-treat with other permethrin tick repellent products. Comes in different sizes and colors. The cost per pair is $38.00.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

Easy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars

A family favorite from one of our PTGDU members, these bars are perfectly delicious fresh or frozen.

Ingredients

2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

2 cups packed light brown sugar

1 cup butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Topping

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13-inch pan with parchment paper and coat with nonstick spray, set aside. On medium speed of mixer, cream butter and sugar for 2 minutes. Add in the eggs, vanilla, baking powder and salt, and mix for 1 minute more, scraping sides of bowl as needed. Turn the mixer to low and add in the flour, mixing until just combined. Spread batter into prepared pan. In small bowl combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over batter. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool slightly and cut into bars.

About Us

March 2024

“Opening Doors to Independence and Opportunity”

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

New! Educational flyer to help businesses recognize real service animals. PTGDU’s new flyer features photos of actual working dogs, and offers guidance on how to identify a legitimate service animal, what questions businesses can ask, how real service animals are expected to behave, when they can be excluded, and more. Photos shown in the flyer were provided courtesy of K9s For Warriors and The Seeing Eye Inc. For an accessible version of the flyer, please send us a message.
Save the date. At our annual spring meeting, PTGDU member Nicholas Giudice, PhD., Professor of Spatial Informatics at the University of Maine, and founder & Chief Research Scientist of the Virtual Environments and Multimodal Interaction Laboratory, will be discussing his team’s extensive research on making fully autonomous vehicles accessible for use by blind and low vision passengers. The event will take place on May 1^st at 6:30 PM ET via Zoom.
It all falls into place. Read about PTGDU member Sue Martin’s adventures with former Seeing Eye dog Beverly as the team successfully navigates an unfamiliar area while away on a business trip. Sue’s story and more can be found on the Our Personal Stories page of our website.
Here, but not for long! Winter’s starting to wind down and with spring in sight, lots more pet owners will be out and about with their furry friends. Help us spread the word about keeping pet dogs a safe distance away from guide dog teams.
Calling all chefs! ACB Maine is hosting a Pampered Chef fundraiser that you won’t want to miss! Check out the new spring line of products just released and place your order by Sunday, March 24, 2024.
Shed those excess pounds. The most recent statistics classify the majority of dogs in the U.S. — 56% — as overweight or obese. Evidence shows that just being 10% overweight decreases a dog’s lifespan by a third and predisposes it to many undesirable health consequences. Find out more about maintaining your dog’s healthy weight.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Problems at the security checkpoint? If your screening experience at the airport doesn’t meet your expectations, request immediate on-site assistance from a TSA supervisor or go to this o nline form to file a formal complaint.
It’s the law! Check out The Seeing Eye’s free app for iOS and Android. The app provides information about U.S. and Canadian laws for guide dog teams.
Rideshare round up. Here are three presentations about the challenges guide dog handlers often face when attempting to get a ride from Uber or Lyft, and the work that’s being done to improve the situation:

A Conversation with Uber

Untangling Transportation – The Promise and Pain of Rideshare

And most recently,

Rideshare Access Barriers.

Tips & Tricks

This section features an array of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

Planning a visit to museums, galleries or other tourist attractions? Call in advance to see what resources are available for visitors who are blind or low vision. Googling the destination to learn all you can about the places you intend to visit can also enrich your experience.
Tired of rideshare drivers dropping you off at the wrong house, workplace, or other frequent destination? Consider showing drivers a photo of your preferred drop-off point to make it easier for them to find. Following along with your GPS can also help.
High and dry? Many airports have free bottle refilling stations after you go through security so bring along a few empty water bottles and fill up! This makes it easier to stay hydrated on the plane and after landing, you’ll have plenty of water to share with your dog.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

S melly Proof Reusable Zip Top Bags

Super durable, resealable, reusable, washable, BPA-free, and puncture resistant. These odor-proof bags seal in even the smelliest dog treats and food leaving the contents in your luggage, backpack, or purse free from unpleasant odors. The bags are made from extra-strength food-grade materials and may be washed, air dried, and reused multiple times. Available in a variety of sizes. Sandwich bags measure 6.5 inches by 7.5 inches. A package of ten is $12.00.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

The Seeing Eye

Irish Soda Bread

In celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day, Seeing Eye students and staff enjoy sampling this treasured family recipe. Makes an ideal side for corned beef and cabbage.

Ingredients

3-3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 tablespoons caraway seeds (optional)

1/4 cup shortening

1 cup raisins or currants

1-1/2 cups buttermilk

1 large egg

1 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 9-inch round cake pan and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add caraway seeds, if desired. On low speed, beat in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in raisins.

In separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg and baking soda until combined. Add to flour mixture and beat on low speed until dough comes away from sides of bowl to form a soft ball (sprinkle with additional flour if needed). Shape dough into a round loaf, about 8 inches in diameter. Place in prepared pan, keeping dough away from edges of pan. Using a sharp knife, cut an X (about 1/2-inch deep) on the top of the loaf and brush top with buttermilk.

Bake until golden brown and bottom of loaf sounds hollow when tapped, about 40 to 50 minutes. (Internal temperature should be about 190 to 200°F.) Remove from pan and serve warm.

About Us

February 2024

“Opening Doors to Independence and Opportunity”

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

What’s up? Find out at our next PTGDU board meeting on Wednesday, February 7th at 6:30 PM via Zoom. For more information and the Zoom link, just send us a message.
Looking for a career in Maine? See how Maine’s Orientation & Mobility Specialists excel at pursuing their professional aspirations and nurturing the blindness community, all while savoring the easy lifestyle and breathtaking views that Maine has to offer.
History in the making. TV star Aria Mia Loberti’s black Lab guide dog, Ingrid, made history at the Golden Globe awards ceremony as the first guide dog ever to stroll along the famous red carpet. All the Light We Cannot See, a popular Netflix mini-series starring the legally blind actress, was nominated for a Golden Globe award last month. The show, based on Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, tells the story of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl who escapes Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II. Visit the audiovault.net to download an audio-described, audio only version of the show. Or read the book from the National Library Service.
Wanna go for a ride? Many dogs jump at the chance to go for a car ride, and guide dogs are no exception. As further advancements in autonomous vehicles evolve, blind people with guide dogs are already dreaming about the independence that these vehicles will provide. Imagine, no more worrying about being denied access by rideshare and taxicab drivers! Read more about Waymo, Uber, and the Ongoing Journey of Self-Driving Cars.
February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Join the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center on Thursday, February 22nd at 6PM for a discussion about common dental diseases and how to care for your pet’s teeth at home. Register here for the online presentation.
Accessible voting. A big shout out to guide dog handlers Nicholas Giudice, Pauline Lamontagne, and Lynn Merrill, as well as to Cheryl Peabody, a long-time member of PTGDU, for their part in helping Maine become one of only a few states to have a fully accessible electronic absentee ballot voting system. Read more in the February issue of The Braille Forum.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Questions about renting? This guidance provides housing providers with a set of best practices for complying with the Federal Fair Housing Act when assessing requests for reasonable accommodations to keep service animals in housing.
Street smarts. Download and listen to a recent presentation by Lukas Franck, COMS, GDMI as he reviews concepts and strategies for safely making street crossings. He will discuss how to signal drivers of the intent to cross a street; what to consider when crossing at two-way and four-way stops; why it is essential to locate and push Pedestrian Call buttons; and more. Sponsored by Guide Dog Users of Kentuckiana, an affiliate of GDUI serving Kentucky and Indiana.
Emergency transportation. Generally, a guide dog is allowed to ride in an ambulance with its handler. However, if the space in the ambulance is crowded and the dog’s presence would interfere with the emergency medical staff’s ability to treat the patient, staff should make other arrangements to have the dog transported to the hospital. Read more about hospital arrangements from ADA.gov.

Odds and Ends

This section features a mishmash of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

Give your Memory a boost. Set Alexa up with a monthly reminder to give your dog its heartworm and flea/tick meds. Setting the alarm time right before your dog’s breakfast helps to ensure that you’ll be home when Alexa sounds off with the reminder.
Looking for an easy way to locate the handle on the back door of an arriving vehicle? Start by listening to the sound of the car engine as it pulls up to help determine which direction the vehicle is facing. Use this sound to help guide you to the back half of the vehicle. Then reach up your fisted hand to touch the window and then slide it toward the back until you reach the door frame. Move your fist down and on to the door to find the handle.
Road salt and sand. Encouraging your dog to romp in uncontaminated snow after returning from a messy wintertime walk can help to remove harsh substances from your dog. However, trotting on wet sidewalks and roadways kicks up a lot of spray and sand so once inside, be sure to finish cleaning off the dog’s belly, legs, chest and in between its toes.
Save space. For those who feed their dogs in the bathroom, switch out the liquid hand soap for a mild dish soap that can be used for cleaning both hands and dog dishes.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Darn Tough Vermont Socks

Comfort that lasts a lifetime. Guaranteed for Life, these ultra comfortable, ultra rugged Darn Tough wool socks come highly recommended by many seasoned guide dog handlers. Choose the women’s Northwoods Micro Crew Midweight Hiking sock in dark teal with blue accents and a moose/tree design on the ankle; the men’s Animal Haus crew lightweight sock in deep water blue with striped accents and a gorilla eating hot sauce design; or any of the other wide array of Darn Tough socks for unbeatable function and comfort. Available in a variety of styles, weights, and colors. $20.00 and up.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

Leader Dogs for the Blind

Chili for a Crowd

This popular Leader Dog staple is often enjoyed by Lions Club members visiting the campus.

Ingredients

10 pounds ground beef

2 cups dried minced onion

1 teaspoon celery salt

½ teaspoon red pepper

2 tablespoons sugar

¾ Cup chili powder

2 tablespoons salt

1 tablespoon pepper

1 102 oz. can (#10) diced tomatoes

1 111 oz. can (#10) chili beans

1 108 oz. can (#10) kidney beans

1 46 oz. can tomato juice

Directions

In large stock pot brown ground beef; drain. Put cooked ground beef back into pot and add remaining ingredients. Simmer for several hours on low heat, stirring often. Additional tomato juice may be added to achieve desired thickness. Yields approximately forty 8 oz. servings. Note: #10 cans are often found at big warehouse stores like Costco and Sams Club.

About Us

January 2024

“Opening Doors to Independence and Opportunity”

Community Connect

This section features PTGDU community updates.

Head into the New Year with PTGDU! Become a member, serve on one of our committees, or share your best photo to post on our Facebook page. We’d love to hear from you.
Step it up. Whether you’re new to walking or a seasoned stroller, be sure to get your dog out there trekking right along with you! Read about the positive benefits that walking has on your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Be My AI is now available to iOS and Android users. Want quick visual assistance without calling a human volunteer? Just open the Be My Eyes app, click on the Be My AI tab, and take a picture of your dog, your surroundings, or anything else you want to know more about. Be My AI will give you a detailed description of the picture, and if desired, you can chat and ask further questions with Be My AI through the app. Visit the Be My Eyes Help Center for more details about this free service.

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

Problems at the airport? If you believe your rights under the Air Carrier Access Act are being or have been violated, ask to speak with a Complaints Resolution Official (CRO). A CRO is the airline’s expert on disability accommodation issues. Airlines are required to make one available to you, at no cost, in person at the airport or by telephone during the times they are operating.
Making a pit stop at the airport. If you request to stop at the bathroom on your way to a departing flight, the airline personnel assisting you is required to stop at the entrance to a bathroom. but that’s only if the bathroom is on the way to your destination and the stop can be made without an unreasonable delay.
Whether you use a white cane or a guide dog, the research team at Metropolitan State University of Denver is looking for your help. The team is conducting an online survey to better understand the travel experiences of blind and low vision individuals. The survey will be open until January 31^st.
Rideshare webinar. Join The Seeing Eye’s Rideshare webinar scheduled for Friday, February 2, 2024 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. Topics will include rideshare denials and other barriers to equal access; rights and responsibilities when using rideshares; proactive steps you can take before an access issue occurs; and what you can do if it does happen. For more information, send a message to advocacy@seeingeye.org.

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Earth Rated Plant Based Dog Wipes

Wipe away the wintery mix of salt and sand from your dog’s paws with Earth Bath’s textured dog wipes. These thick, durable, hypoallergenic wipes contain gentle, high-quality ingredients like soothing aloe, shea butter, chamomile, and cucumber. When cleaning your dog’s paws, be sure to wipe between the toes and under the nails. Dirt, debris, and salt can become lodged in these spaces. Free of alcohol and parabens. Each wipe measures 8 by 8 inches. Not flushable. Available in unscented or lavender. Pack of 100 for $10.00.

Guide Dog School Updates

This section offers brief updates about guide dog schools in the United States.

Let’s celebrate! January 29th marks the 95th anniversary of The Seeing Eye, the pioneers of the guide dog movement in North America. Listen to co-founder Morris Frank as he describes his newly found freedom.
New president and CEO at Leader Dogs. Welcome to Melissa Weisse, an industry-respected nonprofit executive with over 20 years of experience in fundraising and senior management. Weisse commenced her new leadership role on December 12, 2023.

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

Guiding Eyes for the Blind

Greek Yogurt Coffee Cake

The dense, buttery taste of this old-fashioned cinnamon coffee cake makes it a favorite at Guiding Eyes for the blind.

Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup whole plain Greek yogurt, room temperature

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 cups all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Filling:

1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Topping:

1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

3 tablespoons butter, cold

1 scant tablespoon all-purpose flour

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 9-inch-square or round pan. Line bottom with parchment paper and set aside. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add egg and mix until incorporated. In separate bowls, mix baking soda in with yogurt; and then whisk baking powder and salt in with the flour. Alternate adding half of yogurt to batter, followed by half of dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then repeat with remaining yogurt and flour until just incorporated. Mix in extracts. For filling, in a small bowl, whisk together sugar and cinnamon. Spread half of the batter into prepared cake pan and sprinkle with filling mixture. For topping, mix together sugar, cinnamon and flour. Chop or grate cold butter into mixture, then using clean hands or pastry blender / knife, combine until mixture is crumbly. Pour remaining batter over filling and sprinkle with topping mixture. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes or until top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Place pan on a wire rack to cool. Run a knife around the edge to release, then remove from pan and cool completely. Cake will keep, covered in an airtight container, for up to 3 days.