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!
2026 News Updates List
March 2026
February 2026
January 2026
March 2026
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 community updates and more.
- CLYNK Bottle Redemption Program. At participating Hannaford stores in Maine and New York and Stop & Shop locations in Connecticut, your empty bottles and cans can add up to meaningful support for PTGDU — and for our environment. In fact, thanks to generous supporters, we’ve already diverted enough containers to fill nearly seven lobster traps! That’s a boatload of bottles kept out of the waste stream — and a great boost for PTGDU. To support our work, simply log in to your account at CLYNK.com, visit the Donate page, search for Pine Tree Guide Dog Users, and click “Donate.” Every bottle makes a difference.
- Ready to throw a tail-wagging birthday bash? From dog-friendly cakes and tasty treats to paw-some party games, Chewy’s Ultimate Guide to Dog Birthdays is packed with adorable, easy ideas to make your pup’s big day unforgettable!
- NAGDU Unleashed has officially launched. Tune in to the National Association of Guide Dog Users new podcast for engaging conversations, important updates, and inspiring stories—now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeartRadio.
- The next chapter. Follow Melissa and Jake on Forward Together as they explore the retirement journey of a guide dog. In this episode, they answer common questions such as: How do you know when it’s time for a guide dog to retire? Where do guide dogs go after retirement? And how can friends, family, and community members best support handlers during this emotional transition?
- Preserve the power of recall. A strong, reliable recall is one of the most important skills your dog can learn. It can help keep your dog safe, especially in unexpected situations. Explore expert tips for a dependable recall from the professionals at the Guide Dog Foundation.
- Thinking about a guide dog? A recent audio podcast from Hadley Presents shares real stories and practical advice from two guide dog handlers who have been through the journey. These honest insights will help you feel informed and confident as you decide whether to take the next step toward a life-changing partnership.
- Learn, explore and connect! Leader Dogs for the Blind is now accepting applications for its Teen Summer Camp and Teen Orientation & Mobility programs. Both programs are delivered by Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists and are provided at no cost to families (including travel, housing, and meals). Learn more about these two opportunities online or by contacting a client services representative at 888.777.5332.
Advocacy Matters
This section features news on access and legislative issues.
- Is That a Service Animal? Find out which rights apply—and where—when it comes to service animals on March 3rd at 1:00 PM EST. Presented by the Northeast ADA Center, this informative webinar is designed for individuals with disabilities, businesses, transit providers, and others who wish to gain a clear understanding of a person’s rights under various disability laws. Register now for more details
- Pedestrian safety. In a recent episode of the Making Transportation More Accessible for All podcast by the American Council of the Blind, guests Suzette May – a Seeing Eye graduate and pedestrian safety specialist — and Linda Myers, an orientation & mobility specialist and research associate with Accessible Design for the Blind — discuss the challenges facing blind pedestrians and share insights from their experiences attending the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and Transportation Research Board conferences.
Submissions from Members & Friends
This section features contributions shared by PTGDU members and friends.
That’s no ordinary Pup… and Your Pet Dog Knows It!
Submitted by PTGDU member Ginger Kutsch
Pet dogs read the world primarily through body language — and guide dogs don’t always look or move like typical dogs. Those differences can feel confusing or even threatening to a pet, especially in close quarters.
Why guide dogs can trigger uncertainty in pet dogs
- Unusual posture and focus
Guide dogs move with intense forward focus and minimal social signaling. They often avoid eye contact, ignore sniffing rituals, and walk in straight, purposeful lines. To a pet dog, this can appear stiff, aloof, or even confrontational.
- Specialized gear
Harnesses with rigid handles change a dog’s outline and movement. The shape of the harness — and the way it influences body motion — can make the guide dog seem larger, unfamiliar, or subtly “off,” which may trigger uncertainty.
- Lack of typical greeting behavior
Most pet dogs expect curved approaches, mutual sniffing, loose wagging, and other calming signals. A working guide dog generally won’t engage in those behaviors. When those normal social cues are missing, another dog may feel uneasy or defensive.
How pet dogs typically react
When pet dogs feel unsure or concerned, they tend to react quickly and instinctively. Common responses include barking, lunging, growling, backing away, freezing, or attempting to flee. Some dogs become loud and reactive to create distance; others shut down or become hyper-alert and tense. These behaviors are automatic safety responses — not deliberate misbehavior.
Seven simple steps to keep everyone safe
- Create immediate space
As soon as you see a guide dog team approaching, calmly increase distance. Cross the street, step off the path, or move behind a barrier like a parked car if needed. Distance lowers arousal quickly and is the most effective tool you have.
- Shorten the leash and stay relaxed.
Keep your dog close at your side on a short leash. Long or retractable leashes make sudden lunges or momentum harder to control, so shortening the leash early helps you control your dog more easily without adding tension.
- Don’t allow greetings — even friendly ones
A guide dog in harness is working. Avoid letting your dog approach “just to say hello.” Even a playful leap can break the guide dog’s concentration and create risk for the handler.
- Redirect your dog’s focus
Use simple, well-practiced cues like “watch me,” “let’s go,” or a hand target. Reward calm attention and movement away from the team.
- Give the handler a quick heads-up
Offer a brief, clear statement so the handler knows where you are. For example:
“Hi there — I have a dog with me and we’re going to step aside to give you space.”
This reassures the handler that you’re aware and actively creating room for a safe, smooth pass.
- If your dog reacts, move first — talk later
If your dog barks or lunges, create distance immediately. Don’t try to explain or apologize while standing close. Once everyone is safely apart, a brief apology may be appropriate — but space comes first.
- If something goes wrong, take responsibility
If your dog makes contact with or injures a guide dog team, do not walk away. Secure your dog immediately, create space, and check in with the handler. Offer assistance, provide your contact information, and take full responsibility. Even incidents that seem minor can seriously affect a working dog’s focus, training, or the handler’s safety.
Why it matters
Guide dogs help provide independence, mobility, and safety for their handlers. A few seconds of awareness and thoughtful handling from pet owners can make public spaces safer and more comfortable for everyone – including your own dog.
PTGDU Recipe of the Month
This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.
Guide Dogs for the Blind
Ginger Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Creamy and cozy, this comforting soup blends sweet roasted cauliflower with zesty lime and a gentle ginger kick.
Ingredients
2 large heads cauliflower
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon ground ginger
A pinch of salt & pepper
½ cup coconut Oil
1 large onion, diced
6 cloves of garlic, chopped
3 pieces of ginger root, peeled, grated, and divided (about 4-5 tablespoons)
2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
8 cups vegetable or chicken stock
1 can coconut milk
2 tablespoons miso paste
4 tablespoons sherry vinegar
3 limes, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons agave syrup
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Season cauliflower with coconut oil, garlic & onion powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Roast in oven at 400 degrees for 10 – 12 minutes until browned.
2. In a medium stock pot sauté onion, garlic and half grated ginger in coconut oil until translucent. Add roasted cauliflower, cut potatoes and stock. Bring to a boil then heat to simmer for about 25 minutes.
3. Add coconut milk, miso paste, vinegar, lime zest and juice, agave syrup, remaining grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Using an emersion blender to puree soup until smooth. Add chopped cilantro and serve. Yum!
About Us
This monthly news update is a publication of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU), an independent, nonprofit membership organization serving blind and low vision residents of Maine and beyond. Founded in 1997, PTGDU works to promote the equality and inclusion of guide dog teams in all aspects of life. Visit us on the web or follow us on Facebook.
February 2026
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, send us a message.
Community Connect
This section features community updates and more.
- What’s next? Find out at our PTGDU board meeting on Wednesday, February 4th at 6:30 PM via Zoom. Send us a message for the agenda and Zoom link. Everyone is welcome.
- No Cocoa for Canines. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it’s a good time to remember that chocolate and dogs are a dangerous mix. Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine—stimulants that dogs struggle to metabolize. Generally, the darker the chocolate, the higher the risk of illness to dogs. You can learn more about chocolate poisoning from the experts at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.
- Love is in the air. The Seeing Eye has launched a heartwarming new page where its graduates can share original songs about their dogs. Some of these tributes are crafted with a little help from AI, blending human emotion and creative technology to honor their special partners.
- It’s National Pet Dental Health Month. Brushing your dog’s teeth is an easy, daily step towards protecting your dog’s overall health and vitality. Watch this how-to video from the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center to ensure your dog is getting the dental care it needs!
- Vet expenses? Maine residents may qualify for PTGDU’s Mary T. & Curtis D. Lovill Trust Fund for financial assistance of up to $2,500 for their guide dog’s emergency veterinary care. You can find the policy & application on our website.
Advocacy Matters
This section features news on access and legislative issues.
- Where’s my ride? Whether you’re searching for a rideshare vehicle or a friend’s car, The CurbToCar app can help riders find their ride using the phone’s camera. Co-designed with blind users through the MIT Assistive Tech Club, this free app for iPhones uses object detection and real-time tracking along with continuous audio feedback and distance estimation to locate the car.
- Real service animals. Wondering how to recognize a real service animal? PTGDU’s professionally designed flyer helps businesses and others differentiate legitimate service animals from those whose owners make false claims about a dog’s status in order to gain access or avoid “pet” fees.
Submissions from Members & Friends
This section features contributions shared by PTGDU members and friends.
Finding Joy in a Shared Challenge
By PTGDU member and book author Sue W. Martin
I love cross-country skiing. It’s exhilarating, it tests your balance and skill, and it’s fun.
Sharing my life with my guide dogs is all inclusive. It doesn’t begin when the harness goes on and it doesn’t end when the harness comes off.
Put those two things together and the next step becomes inevitable. Skiing with my dog.
It’s not complicated but it’s not easy.
Kasey is trained to guide me. When we ski together, she is not guiding me. She is not harnessed. When not wearing her harness, she considers herself off duty. Her rules of behavior change. And she’s young, energetic, and eager to interact with the world around her. I need to, at least somewhat, tame that eagerness without squelching her enthusiasm.
I started by skiing on our road. We live on a private, unpaved, dead-end road. When it snows, there’s always a layer of snow on the road, even after its plowed. My goal was to get her to stay on my left side and run along with me. Since she’s trained to pull out in harness, she naturally moves out ahead of me. I just needed to teach her not to pull too hard.
With skis on, poles in hand, and the loop of her long leash grasped around my left ski pole, we began.
At first, Kasey trotted nicely along on my left side. Then, it was like a light went on in her head. “Hey, we’re trotting down this road, I’m not wearing my harness, yahoo, let’s go!” Angling my right ski to slow down, I gave the command, “Steady,” and pulled back on her leash. When she stopped pulling, I praised her. We continued down the road as I repeated the process.
During our third trip down the road, I had her trotting nicely along on my left side. It was time to try skiing together for real.
We went to a local forest reserve with nicely groomed trails. And off we went. Occasionally, Kasey spun in a circle or two. But it didn’t interrupt our progress so I just laughed at her exuberance.
Then we came to the first hill.
What a thrill! I picked up speed. We flew down the trail together. She ran straight and true and my skis stayed nicely in the groomed tracks. Knees slightly flexed and leaning forward, I adjusted to each change and bend in the trail as it came. Then the trail leveled out. I praised Kasey effusively and we continued.
Another hill. We flew together with Kasey pulling a bit harder. “Steady,” I instructed. She eased her pull. The trail leveled out. And we continued. I kept up a running dialog with Kasey, ensuring her engagement in this new activity.
At the half-way point, we took a break. Taking off my mittens, I crouched before her, held her face gently in my hands, and told her what a good girl she was.
After two hours, we cruised down the last hill and skied out of the forest. We had done it!
About the author. Sue Martin is happily retired and living in northern Michigan where she delights in exploring the great outdoors. When she’s not hiking or skiing, she’s writing, taking care of her plants, or just hanging out in front of the fire with her husband, Jim. Sue is currently working her sixth dog, a female German shepherd from The Seeing Eye.
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.
Safeguard your dog from winter’s cold and wet weather. Ruffwear’s gray Highlands Pad is a lightweight, backpacking dog bed with an easy-to-clean microsuede sleeping surface and accordion-fold design for compact and easy transport. The closed-cell foam and synthetic down insulate from hard, cold surfaces, while the non-slip waterproof base ensures a dry spot for your pup. Perfect for protecting your dog at the bus stop, or from car and other floors that are wet from snow melt and covered with sand and deicing chemicals. Size medium measures approximately 23 x 33 x 1 inches when flat and 12 x 5 x 5 inches when folded. Weighs 12 ounces. $50.00.
PTGDU Recipe of the Month
This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with this special guide dog recipe filled with a blend of dedication, love, and teamwork.
Ingredients
A touch of Home Litter Care Volunteers for round-the-clock nurturing of our future guide dogs.
A generous scoop of Early Socialization Volunteers to introduce newborn pups to gentle hands and the wonders of the world.
A spoonful of Home Socializers, ensuring young puppies experience new sights, sounds, and textures with confidence.
A handful of Puppy Wranglers to help manage active, curious pups during events.
A few frames from our Puppy Test and IFT Videographers, capturing vital milestones in training.
A sprinkle of Drivers, who transport dogs, puppies, and supplies wherever they need to go.
A strong foundation of Puppy Raisers, providing love, socialization, and early training.
A pinch of Puppy Sitters, ready to step in when a raiser needs a helping hand.
A dollop of Region Coordinators, guiding and supporting raisers every step of the way.
A splash of Class Helpers, ensuring smooth training sessions
A swirl of Region Social Media Volunteers, sharing inspiring stories and updates.
A dash of Kennel Volunteers providing daily care, comfort, companionship, and enrichment at the Canine Development Center and Training School.
A hearty helping of Brood/Stud Fosters and Sitters, giving our breeding dogs the best care and love in a home environment.
A drizzle of Puppy and Dog Massage Volunteers to soothe muscles and promote relaxation in our hardworking dogs.
A pinch of Administrative Volunteers preparing supplies and assisting with genetics, adoptions, student services, and fundraising efforts.
A final garnish of Ambassador and Event Volunteers, spreading awareness and enthusiasm in the community and connecting us with future supporters and friends.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients with passion, patience, and unwavering dedication.
2. Mix thoroughly in an environment filled with encouragement and expert guidance.
3. Proof your puppy – allow time for growth, learning, and bonding.
4. Season with love and positive reinforcement.
5. Serve with a full heart and the joy of knowing a life has been changed forever with a Guiding Eyes guide dog at their side!
About Us
This monthly news update is a publication of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU), an independent, nonprofit membership organization serving blind and low vision residents of Maine and beyond. Founded in 1997, PTGDU works to promote the equality and inclusion of guide dog teams in all aspects of life. Visit us on the web or follow us on Facebook.
January 2026
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 view this publication online, go to www.PineTreeGuideDogUsers.org.
Community Connect
This section features community updates and more
- If you haven’t joined us yet, now’s the perfect time. Come be part of the conversation, connect with others, and help us promote the acceptance and equality of guide dog teams everywhere. Our members live all over the country, including Maine, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New Jersey. Visit our members page to join PTGDU or to learn more about membership in our group. Annual dues are just $10.00.
- Look who’s in the news! PTGDU member Carolyn Bebee was honored with the Bud Lewis Community Service Award in recognition of her lifelong commitment to advancing equity and opportunity for Maine’s blind and low vision community. The American Council of the Blind of Maine (ACB of Maine) proudly presented her with this prestigious award during its annual conference in November. Congratulations Carolyn!
- Travel adventures. Check out the recently updated version of Travel Tips, Tricks, Tools, and Techniques before you hit the road. Offers extensive, experience-based guidance for blind and low vision travelers accompanied by guide dogs.
- More practical guidance. Check out VisionAventurers.com, a fully accessible, online space designed to empower and support the low‑vision and blind communities. The site offers a rich collection of informative resources, including a section on tips for guide dog handlers.
- Express your gratitude. Let your veterinary team know how much they’re appreciated! Even a small gesture of thanks can mean the world — whether it’s a heartfelt thank you note, a positive online review, or a thoughtful treat like fruit, sweets, coffee, or other goodies. A few examples of gifting include dropping off a veggie platter from your local supermarket, ordering a DoorDash delivery of Starbucks coffee, or shipping snacks from Amazon Prime.
- All about the match. Tune into episode 25 of the Leader Dogs Taking the Lead podcast to discover the art and science behind matching their clients with the right guide dogs.
- Put your thinking cap on! Here’s your chance to improve the world of travel for guide dog teams. The Blind Travel Foundation will be awarding up to three $10,000 grants this year to support bold, imaginative, and impactful travel projects that benefit the blind and visually impaired community.
- Looking for answers? Take a look at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Frequently Asked Questions resource that explains how the public should properly interact with guide dogs and their handlers, clarifies the rights and responsibilities surrounding legitimate service dogs, and highlights the skills, limitations, and care of working guide dogs.
- Keeping your dog happy, healthy, and confident. Read the Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s blog entry about the importance of keeping your dog physically and mentally fit. Discusses ways to provide opportunities for mental stimulation, play, and exploration.
- Senior moments — or something more? Does your dog seem confused, restless, or just not right? Tune into the Lap of love’s webinar about cognitive decline in dogs on Wednesday, January 7 at 7:00 PM ET. The presentation will cover early signs, medical and at-home support, common caregiver frustrations, and how to use tracking scales to understand what’s changing and when to reach out for support. Register now to learn more about supporting your dog through the aging process.
Advocacy Matters
This section features news on access and legislative issues.
- Know before you go. Get Tips for traveling with your guide dog at the airport, onboard the aircraft, and outside of the United states from the US Department of Transportation’s website. Includes guidance about what to do if you believe your rights are being violated.
- SeaWorld Orlando. If you’ve experienced access barriers with your guide dog at the SeaWorld Orlando theme park, reach out to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida via email at USAFLM.Civil.Rights@usdoj.gov or by calling their civil rights hotline and leaving a voice mail at (813) 274-6095.
- Recreational outings. Get ready for your next adventure to a National park, zoo, amusement park, and other recreational settings with a little help from The Seeing Eye’s access website.
- What’s up doc? Share PTGDU’s etiquette sheet with your healthcare providers and encourage them to take a look at our list of resources that explain how healthcare facilities should safely and legally accommodate service animals. These official publications outline infection control practices, ADA access rights, when animals may be restricted in sterile areas, and how hospitals should handle situations like inpatient care, supervision, and ambulance transport. Additional guidance covers service animal access in VA facilities.
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.
Ruffwear Vert Coverall Dog Snow Suit
Get ready for snow, rain, and cold temps. Ruffwear’s waterproof and windproof snow suit for dogs creates a reliable barrier against the wintry elements, while high-loft recycled polyester insulation delivers exceptional warmth where your doggo needs it most. The articulated, 4-way stretch sleeves give your dog full range of motion with added coverage. The chest zipper makes for easy on/off, and micro adjustability at the neck and back provides better fit. Reflective trim and a light loop enhance visibility during low light endeavors. The best part, “full coverage” means a less wet, muddy dog to manage post winter outings. Also available in a vest style. Price: $139.00.
PTGDU Recipe of the Month
This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.
Easy Beef and Noodles Casserole
Submitted by one of our Facebook fans, this hearty, satisfying meal comes together with minimal effort. Perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients
1 lb. stew beef, cut into bite-size chunks
1 pkg. onion soup mix
1 can (10 oz) Cream of Mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
1 bag (12 oz) egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
Directions
In a greased slow cooker, stir together beef, onion soup mix, mushroom soup, and broth. Cook on low for six to eight hours. Add egg noodles during the last hour. Add sour cream to mixture just before serving.
About Us
This monthly news update is a publication of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU), an independent, nonprofit membership organization serving blind and low vision residents of Maine and beyond. Founded in 1997, PTGDU works to promote the equality and inclusion of guide dog teams in all aspects of life. Visit us on the web or follow us on Facebook.