Fidelco Staff: Above and Beyond

Fidelco Staff with guide dogs-in-training

When we say we’re there for our clients for the lifetime of the guide dog partnership- 24 hours per day, seven days per week- we mean it.

Since the average Fidelco guide dog partnership lasts a decade or more, changing circumstances are inevitable. Whether it’s a client’s move to a new location, an illness or injury requiring temporary care of their guide dog, or ensuring a guide dog team is comfortable navigating a new route, our trainers are always ready to respond.

The Honorable David S. Tate, retired judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit and Fidelco client and his guide dog, “Vixen,” are equally adept at navigating urban Maryland and rural Virginia, where the team splits their time. Fidelco Placement Specialist Chris Eastwood is helping to ensure the team’s continued success nearly six years into heir partnership.

Vixen’s ability to work in both environments is based not only on her adaptability, but also on the traits she first exhibited as a tiny pup. From the moment she was born, the match-making process began. Fidelco staff carefully observed how she reacted to the sights, sounds, and smells in her environment. This observation continued during the 16 months she spent in the home of her Volunteer Puppy Raisers and throughout the six months of formal guide dog training she received once she returned to Fidelco.

When she was ready to be placed with a client, Vixen was specifically chosen for Judge Tatel because of her temperament, gait, and ability to smoothly transition from urban to rural environments.

“Vixen is as skilled in the country as she is in town,” says Judge Tatel. “In D.C., she reliably guides me through all the normal city hazards…in the country, she guides me down country roads while warning me of approaching vehicles and listening to birds and sniffing for deer and other critters.”

Donor support of Fidelco’s mission allows us to deliver highly individualized services to our more than 150 active guide dog teams day or night, year after year. Whatever it takes.