FidelcoNews

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…

Virtual Dog Days of Summer Sparks Passion in Young Entrepreneur

Fifth-grade student Grace Miller combined her innovative and creative ideas, her compassionate and giving spirit, and her love of dogs to create Ziller Dog Supplies. Grace and two friends started the business in late 2020 and have already made and sold several dog blankets and dozens of dog toys, in a variety of sizes, ranging…

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.…

Right at home

When Fidelco Volunteer Puppy Raiser Instructor Wendy Davis brought home the D-29 litter of eight 4½-week-old puppies in February, she had no idea of how the world was about to change. As a longtime Fidelco staff member in the Puppy Department and experienced Golden Retriever breeder and show handler, Wendy knows a thing or two…

Full house

Like so many organizations in the United States and around the world, Fidelco quickly transitioned to remote operations in mid-March as the COVID-19 crisis mounted. Within 48 hours, every one of the 50 dogs in the kennel was welcomed into the home of a staff member, Puppy Raiser, or puppy sitter. Fidelco Trainer/Instructor Nate Lavigueur…

Not slowing down

“I don’t know what I’d do without him—it’s a perfect match.” That’s how Melissa (“Missy”), a Pennsylvania resident, describes her relationship with “Bordley,” the successor Fidelco guide dog she received in early March 2020. Missy’s beloved first guide dog, “Grady,” had passed away suddenly just a few weeks earlier, and she missed him desperately. But…

A meaningful decision

He is a jurist on the second most powerful court in the country, a lifelong advocate for civil rights and educational equality, and the proud one-year partner of Fidelco guide dog “Vixen.” The Honorable David S. Tatel sits on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. He was appointed to…

Off to college

In the summer before Marion Yingling’s senior year of high school, a flyer from Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation arrived in her family’s mailbox. After learning more about Fidelco’s mission and observing Puppy Raiser classes at the Wilton campus, Marion knew she wanted to become a Volunteer Puppy Raiser. Marion and her family soon welcomed Fidelco…

Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, Inc.