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Dogs have been accompanying humanity for thousands of years. In the past, livestock protected us and ourselves from predators. But since we started living in houses, they have shown us that they can be great friends, as it was Buddy, the first dog-guide in history.
Thanks to this beautiful German Shepherd breed, today all those people who cannot see trust the successors of this magnificent animal which was Buddy.
It was the year 1929 when a man named Frank Morris showed up with a trained guide dog, and make known »The eye that sees», The first institution in America to train guide dogs for the blind. Frustrated by his own blindness, he had just returned from Switzerland where he had participated in a pioneering guide dog program. Once he met Buddy, he knew his life would never be the same again.
At that time, it was extremely curious to see a blind person being able to move quietly through the city. For the blind, being able to move from one place to another without having to depend on anyone is one of the most important things. Thus, "The Seeing Eye" quickly became a hope for them. So much so that over the years 16.000 dogs were paired with the institution's partners.
Now based in Morristown, NJ, »The seeing eye» serves an average of 260 people a year. The training lasts 25 days, and the most interesting thing is that almost all expenses are covered by charitable contributions. These dogs work an average of eight years before they can enjoy a well-deserved retirement.
Guide dogs are furry dogs who do a wonderful job. They are not only the eyes of the blind, but also a reason to smile and move on.