The fantastic book, The First Lady of the Seeing Eye, tells about the men and women who introduced Seeing Eye dogs to the world. Thus began my fascination and my lifetime of love for the wonders of the Seeing Eye dogs and the institute that breeds, raises, loves, trains, and gifts them as the most wonderful blessing for people who are blind. I was in the seventh or eighth grade when I purchased the book from the Scholastic organization. In 2023 I was invited to a marvelous lunch in Morristown, New Jersey (Morristown is the home of The Seeing Eye, but the town’s name has no affiliation with one of the founders, Morris Frank) when my husband and I befriended the Chair of the Board Cynthia Bryant who now works with Summer, her third Seeing Eye dog.

The organization is funded by donations alone and every bit helps. See The Seeing Eye – Homepage.

The organization breeds their own puppies under close tracking of the breeds and litters. They specifically breed German shepherds, Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers and a cross of the Lab and golden retriever. From birth the puppies receive special attention to enable them to feel comfortable with people and their surroundings, which enhances their ability to succeed as future guide dogs. They have developed a line of shepherds who do not have the hip problem that often plagues the breed. Once weaned, volunteers will begin the raising of puppies, some people for the first time and many with a long line of training and delivering happy dogs back to The Seeing Eye in about 12 to 16 months. They have learned to play, been exposed to many people in odd dress or mannerisms, thunderstorms, and a variety of noises from the real world. Because of their solid techniques and years of experience, The Seeing Eye emerges as the leader in creating the healthiest, most predictable and reliable guide dogs possible.

After years of perfecting the training process, The Seeing Eye continues to be innovative as the excellent trainers begin the process that will produce a guide dog who can navigate obstacles on the blind person’s level – streets, parking lots, and tripping hazards. But most importantly the dog must possess the ability to use intelligence disobedience. The handler can’t see a danger and relies on the dog to take them away from a dangerous situation. It could be a car making an illegal turn that could injure the team, and the dog will push or pull the owner to safety. Or a low-hanging tree limb or an awning too low for the person to pass under. The dog needs to know the height of the person and consider this as they move around.

Morris Frank in his book related the tale when he took a cane to make a short trip a few blocks from home. He had no idea how his Seeing Eye dog Buddy maneuvered around bumps in the sidewalks, low hanging trees, and how complex it became to cross the street without him.

Dogs cost $150 for the first one and $50 for the second as most people will have the need for more than one dog in their lifetime. Veterans pay $1.00 for a dog. That amount includes travel to Morristown, room and board, and all the training. Individuals or organizations can sponsor a puppy, choosing a name for them if they raise or donate $5,000.

My husband and I recently visited The Seeing Eye this year for another wonderful luncheon and the next day a walk around Morristown with a blind woman, her dog, and an instructor. It was a dream come true. We ended up at the statues of Morris Frank and Buddy in the center of town. Morris and the original Buddy opened doors for disabled people with their travels, work, and social life. The organization and their dogs are nothing short of the most awesome asset to people who are blind.

We were honored to sit behind two women with their Seeing Eye dogs curled up under the chairs as they looked back at us with those lovely, intelligent brown eyes.

Please consider keeping in touch with this organization because they often have “offers” where someone or a corporation will match, double, or triple your donation.

I’m proud to be able to help. The first time I went to Morristown, I saw a student with a dog and a trainer moving along on the sidewalk and I cried! This organization can change your life as well as those who benefit from our support. Be prepared to fall in love with these beautiful dogs.

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