Also known as Southeastern Guide Dogs in Palmetto, Florida. I took a tour one Friday morning a couple of weeks ago and learned that this is a state of the art facility for many reasons, though the only one I can remember is that it’s because they conserve energy by not turning on all the lights in every building at full power if the space isn’t being used. Also, it’s very clean, and it is fully funded through donations, they get no government support. I made many people uncomfortable by crying (not unusual) through most of the tour, because, honestly, it’s overwhelming how cute those guys are and what important jobs they’re being trained to perform and how many people they’ve helped.
Getting snugged while vitals are being taken. Actually, I don’t know what’s happening here, I made that up, I don’t know why the puppy is on the table, this was before the tour.
The sleepiest, sweetest little buddies. I think someone said they’re 6 weeks old.
Sleeping on an outer space pillow.
Needs a spa day.
Puppy preschoolers and puppy kindergarteners. Gulp.
Playground with purple worms wearing boots!
Look at that one guy in the back, curious and ready.
I think this one got a weekend pass to go home with this volunteer.
Puppy Kindergarten. Gulp.
Waiting for a guide dog in training to come out. Above was the first attempt, but she had to go back because she was too excited.
Single and ready to mingle.
An homage to Instagram’s Subway Hands. These guys were sweet.
Oh, I just remembered the other state of the art element is the veterinary care! The vet combines eastern and western medicine to treat the dogs and also, unrelated, hip dysplasia has been pretty much bred out of them. I believe this is all mostly correct.
Sprinkles dog. If you donate enough money you can get a dog a statue- that stays at the school- and a local artist decorates it according to your vision. This was by far the best one, maybe that’s why it’s in a building protected by a glass case?
These were stuffed in a closet like a dirty secret.
Recess!
