Guide dogs take behind-the-scenes stroll down Main Street

On July 18, Dogs Inc. (previously Southeastern Guide Dogs) released "Ace," an inspirational animated short featuring the journey of a heroic guide dog.

Four days later, it was back to business as usual for Dogs Inc. employees, who were walking the streets of Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, training a group of dogs who are getting ready to be prepared with their blind clients.

While that duty won't draw the exposure and accolades of the animated shorts that are seen by millions, it is just as important, especially to those who receive the guide dogs.

Dogs Inc. employees and trainers Rivi Israel (Lakewood Ranch), Christine Fulton (Parrish), Lynn Benus (Ruskin), Carley Crawford (East County), and Sam Holden (Ruskin) walked various dogs in training through Main Street at Lakewood Ranch on a sizzling hot morning.

The dogs had been training to meet their new owners in August. Israel said she had worked for other guide dog organizations, but came to Dogs Inc. because it has a different philosophy about training.

"Most (guide dog organizations) correct the dogs," Israel said. "We focus on positive reenforcement."

Photo by Jay Heater

As the Dogs Inc. trainers walked with the dogs down the streets and across intersections, the dogs were given treats for things such as stopping the person before crossing an intersection, or leading the person away from possible hazards, such as overhanging limbs on trees.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, the dogs of Dogs Inc. transform lives throughout the U.S. at no cost to the recipients, after an extensive training program for both the dogs and the potential clients.

To raise money for its mission, Dogs. Inc. produces animated short videos such as "Ace."

"Ace" was developed as a prequel to "Pip," Southeastern Guide Dogs's 2018 award-winning animated short that drew almost a half-billion YouTube views. "Pip" featured a young guide dog who had struggles in her desire to be a guide dog like the legendary Ace.

“Ace will tug the heartstrings of dog lovers everywhere, showcasing heroism and forever shaping how we view the magical bond between dogs and their human partners,” said Dogs Inc. CEO Titus Herman in a release. “Ace’s bravery, loyalty, and love impact more than one person’s life — they touch an entire town. Watch this film, feel uplifted, and get inspired to spark hope in your community.”

Dogs Inc. graduates approximately 150 dogs a year into becoming guide dogs for those with vision loss, service dogs for veterans, and skilled companion dogs for children in need. 

The Dogs Inc. animated playlist can be found at DogsInc.org/about-us/video-screening-room/.