Fidelco News

Brad S and Gizzy with American Flag Backdrop

November 11th – Veterans Day

Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation offers sincere thanks to our veterans for your service to our country. On November 11, 1918, Armistice Day, the end of WWI was declared, and President Woodrow Wilson declared Veterans’ Day on November 11, 1919. Learn more about Veterans’ Day historic background. We are honored to raise and train our Fidelco…

Dedicated to Service and Community

Volunteer Puppy Raisers generously give their time, patience, and care to provide young pups with the socialization and essential skills that prepare them for the next phase of their guide dog journey. Puppy Raiser families open their homes and hearts to raise a puppy that will one day be a trusted guide dog partner for a person who is blind.

Lt. Brad S and Fidelco guide dog, "Thunder" smiling on their front step

Better Support through Veteran Outreach

Since its establishment as a guide dog breeding and training organization, Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation has been placing extraordinary guide dogs with veterans. These life-changing guide dog partnerships have provided greater independence, self-confidence and mobility. Clients include those sustaining vision loss from their service and veterans experiencing vision loss from other conditions.

Jamie, Haddie & Family

“Just because I’m blind doesn’t mean I can’t do everything I want to do.” Fidelco client Jamie Larson lives by these words every day.

VPR Olympics Winners Simon Says 1 Pika 2 Parrow 3 Stephen

Fidelco Puppy Olympics

In September, we held the first-ever Fidelco Puppy Olympics at our headquarters in Bloomfield with our volunteer puppy raisers and the pups they are lovingly raising. The event included: Simon Says Egg Races Musical Chairs Bobbing for Apples Bowling It was a wonderful opportunity for our pups-in-training to interact with each other and work on…

The Gift of a Great Start

Volunteer Puppy Raisers play a vital role in the development of Fidelco German Shepherds as they grow into becoming guide dogs. From eight weeks until about 14–16 months old, puppies live with families who provide a loving home, training, and socialization to prepare them for future guide dog work. After ten years as a Volunteer…

One Man’s Journey to Independence

Robert Heidenberg, president and CEO of Heidenberg Properties Group and member of Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation’s Board of Directors, is partner to “Zoe,” his first Fidelco guide dog. Retinitis pigmentosa, a hereditary retinal disease, gradually caused his vision to diminish over time. Founded in 2013, his company develops, owns, and manages shopping centers, malls, and…

Appreciating the Heroes – Our Kennel Staff

They are there 365 days a year, keeping Fidelco German Shepherd Dogs healthy, happy, and safe—this describes the tireless, hands-on work of the six members of Fidelco’s kennel staff. While their work often goes unseen, these dedicated people ensure that each of the dogs in their care receives the physical and emotional support essential to…

A Shared and Special Bond

“This extremely smart, dedicated German Shepherd Dog guides and protects you, while giving unconditional love that strengthens you in other aspects of your life,” says Fidelco client Connie Hornick. Originally from New York and a retired social worker, she now lives in Ohio with her husband, Steve. Connie lost her vision due to congenital glaucoma.…

Denise

Denise on WFSB Channel 3. Fidelco guide dog puppy “Denise” is named in honor of WFSB Channel 3 news anchor Denise D’Ascenzo who passed away late last year. Denise is remembered for her service to the community, countless accolades, and genuine kindness. Her legacy lives on in “Denise” – a puppy with promise who will…