Category Archives: Graduates
Guide Dog Zion with Amanda
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: November 2022
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Dianne of Mequon, WI
John & Coleman of Mineral Point, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Josh of Madison, WI
Kassel & Taylor of Columbus, WI
DOB: August 8, 2020
Zion (Mr Blue) is the most people oriented of the three pups. He will break off play with his sisters the moment a human gets his attention. A little less prone to do battle, he is the first to finish one – he has to, the girls gang up on him. He is a very easy going, laid back pup and that bodes well for future guide work. He passed his guide dog assessment and completed his 4 months of harness training with Shelby out in California. He is back and currently working for and loved by Amanda.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Sansa with Mindy
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: November 2022
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Mary & Gerry of Mazomanie, WI
Sheila, Shaun & Family of Janesville, WI
Pawsforward of New Lisbon, WI
Erin & Matt of Madison, WI
Terry & Michael of Cross Plains, WI
DOB: November 2, 2019
Sansa (Miss Red/pink) was the first born and within an hour of birth was doing laps in the incubator while her siblings slept. She must like the heat as she is not fond of the cold and is first to snuggle at your feet outside. Be wary Sansa, “Winter is coming” and chicken!!! out on the farm with very experience baby handler, Mary. She went from a fairly quiet home to a very active family and she’ll loved it, then to boot camp, back to Madison and finally Cross Plains before harness training with Jennifer. Sansa has gone to work with Melinda. Hopefully Jenifer survived her cold weather delivery!!
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog “Autumn” with Mary
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: November 2022
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Mary & Gerry of Mazomanie, WI
Beth & Family of McFarland, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Diane & Family of Mequon, WI
DOB: October 18, 2020
Autumn (Miss Yellow) was a mama’s girl. Her first day was spent trying to get her to nurse, but she would stop and crawl up Mama’s neck and fall asleep in the crook of her neck. Eventually she discovered that food was just as good as snuggles, so she stayed nursing. She’ll have a couple weeks of Aster being around for company until he moves to his raiser. After some time with Mary & Gerry, Autumn moved to McFarland followed up with Jennifer & harness training before returning this fall. She was delivered to Mary by our newest GDMI, Shelby!
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Simba with Martha
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated : October, 2022
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Lindsey of Lodi, WI
Portia & Deanna of Wauwatosa, WI
Dianne of Mequon, WI
Erin & Matt of Madison, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Josh of Madison, WI
DOB: November 2, 2019
Simba (Mr Orange) was the second born and unlike Sansa, he loved the incubator warmth. He slept most of the time while Sansa was doing laps. He is one of the larger pups of the litter and is always first to the dinner table, finding it necessary to lay across the table at times, to make certain he got his fair share. After Simba finished his harness training with Rebecca he went to work for Martha in Wisconsin.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Xander with Linda
Male Black Standard Poodle
Graduated: September 2022
Bred by: Puddle Jumpers of LaValle, WI
Raised by: Michelle & Mark of Wauwatosa, WI
Blake of Milwaukee, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Anna of Madison, WI
DOB: June 30, 2020
Xander is a sweet, albeit a bit noisy, pup. He is very smart and learns behaviors quickly. We hope he completes his training as well as kennelmate Newton as we have a long list of students waiting for a poodle. Xander was trained by Rebecca in North Carolina and was matched with Linda up in Wausau! Wish them the best in their guiding journey!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Winston with Mike
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: July 2022
Bred by: The Captains Labs
Raised by: Julie & Family of Verona, WI
Chris of Waukesha, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Dave & Cindy of Milwaukee, WI
Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI
DOB: May 6, 2020
Winston is a very light cream yellow pup and littermate to Weston. He has found a best friend with Coco at sitter Mary’s. He gets to sleep in the bedroom so we are guessing he was fairly quiet but time will tell. He’ll be moving to an active family in a week or so, but now it’s time for boot camp for both. Winston has now started guiding for Mike, giving Nugget a much deserved retirement. Hopefully the boys have some time for play in the back yard!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Sammi with Leon
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated : May, 2022
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Rachel & Julie of Waunakee, WI
Kristy & Kurt of Beloit, WI
Pawsforward of New Lisbon, WI
Jane & Family of Madison, WI
Deb & Family of Cambridge, WI
DOB: November 2, 2019
Sammi (Miss Black) was dubbed with the nickname “Sammi the Shark” cuz everything went in her mouth. She is by far the most active and challenging of the litter, but we’ll see if she grows up like Carmel did and prove that the wild child can do it too. Must have done something right cuz after moving on to Boot camp and finishing her harness training she has finished her delivery and is now working for Leon in Minnesota.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Scarlet with Mike
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: November 2021
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Tracey of Madison, WI
Annie of Madison, WI
Terry & Family of Cross Plains, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Erin & Chris of Wauwatosa, WI
Emily & Evan of Madison, WI
DOB: November 2, 2019
Scarlet (Miss Brown) was the smallest puppy of the litter. She is still the smallest be is catching up fast. She is fun loving and loves to torment her brothers when they are sleeping (tail pulls). After practicing a bit with Rose, raiser Tracey is going to kept Scarlet a bit longer. Now that the Vet school is temporally closed, Annie had some free time spend with Miss Scarlet. Now that Annie is in California for a while, is moving to raisers in Cross Plains. She got her new raisers fully trained so off to New Lisbon followed by some time in Milwaukee and then to Madison! She has now completed harness training and began her guiding career with Mike in a Chicago Suburb.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Remi with Susan
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: October 2021
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Dale & Family of Barneveld, WI
Anne of Fitchburg, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Deb & Lauren of Cambridge, WI
DOB: October 19, 2019
Remi (Miss Orange) is the second born from Bling’s first litter. She is a playful girl and loves long walks in the front kennel. Remi was then with a raiser with lots of puppy experience – but the girls say they did all the work! She did so very well with her newest raiser, or so she says, it’ was off to boot camp in New Lisbon. Ready for the big world, she spent some time getting to know the world followed by 4 months of harness training with Addie in Seattle. She is now back in Wisconsin, hard at work with Susan.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Odin with Don
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: September, 2021
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Mary & Jerry of Mazomanie, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
Jane of Madison, WI
Emily & Evan of Madison, WI
DOB: June 21, 2019
Odin is one of two puppies from Paige’s last litter. He is a little more reserved than his slightly more animated sister, Ohana. He is a gentle soul and has become a great guide dog. He’started off with a raiser who does babies almost exclusively, before getting a bit too strong. After some time at boot camp in Oxford, he was back in Madison, fine tuning his training. After 4 months of harness training with Rebecca he is now partnered with Don. Looks like another great match!
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Ranger with Nick
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: September, 2021
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Lorraine & Family of McFarland
John & Coleman of Mineral Point, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Ed & Susan of Madison, W
DOB: October 19, 2019
Ranger (Mr Black – formerly known as Mr. Brown) was nearly as calm and laid back as Miss Gray. He was also a laid back, slow to arouse, thoughtful boy – but does love a good tussle! Ranger spent a couple weeks with sitter Mary before he went to his new home right after New Years. He had the quiet, laid back life near Mineral Point, followed by harness training with Jennifer in NC. Now livin’ the good life guiding his new partner for life, Nick!
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Nimble with Joy
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: June, 2021
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Kris & Jim of Plain, WI
Portia & Deanna of Wauwatosa, WI
Jane & Family of Madison
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
Mike & Sheilagh of Fitchburg, WI
Dave & Cindy of Waukesha, WI
DOB: March 14, 2019
Nimble (Mr Black) is one of seven puppies from Ivy’s second litter. Being the biggest and a boy, he was a bully. Fortunately, the smallest of the litter Noel (Miss Orange) tamed him and the Halloween couple – Black & Orange, became an item! He graduated guide dog school from both Colorado and North Caroline and is teamed up with Joy back in Wisconsin. Watching them work only 2 weeks after joining forces, they look like a team together for years!
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Java with Makayla
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: June, 2021
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN
Raised by: Ruthanna of Madison, WI
Deb & Lauren of Cambridge, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
Caitlin of Madison, WI
Erin & Matt of Madison, WI
Cindy & David of Waukesha, WI
DOB: August 30, 2018
Java was a quiet, well mannered pup who came to us from a breeder who has produced many guide dogs for OccuPaws and we were sure he would be a fine one too. He spent time with an experienced raisers and new OccuPaws raisers. He also got experience in Oxford and got a little Ice Time with his new raiser and the Women’s Hockey Team. He has now graduated and guiding Makayla. He loves his work and tries hard not to get distracted out in the world.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Natty with Jeff
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: May 2021
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WIAnnie & Maddie of Madison, WI
Dale & family of Barneveld, WI
Sue of Verona, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Julie & Family of Fitchburg, WI
Natty (Miss Purple) was one of seven puppies from Ivy’s second litter. Being one of the smallest, her bigger sisters like to pick on her, which was why she managed to be second to walk at 13 days old – harassment!. She loves to snuggle and is the gentlest, most sensitive pup at 8 weeks. For such a small girl, she is a power walker!! She loved moving back from guide dog college in North Carolina to a cooler climate in Minnesota with Jeff. Good thing she loves to wear her booties as we hear it gets kinda cold way up Nort’
Guide Dog Newton with Mazan
Male Apricot Standard Poodle
Graduated: April, 2021
Bred by: Puddle Jumper Puppies of Lavalle, WI
Raised by: Cheryl & Family of Cross Plains, WI
Beth & Family of Madison, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
Blake of Milwaukee, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
Newton was a giant along side his litter mate Nexus who came to us from a breeder new to OccuPaws but not new to the world of producing service dogs. He turned out to be a rock solid, rockstar. He is guiding his partner, Mazan, if probably the most difficult, high intensity environment one could imagine for a guide dog – downtown Chicago! Even his GDMI Rebecca was concerned that any dog could handle the confusion and distractions that Newton would encounter. He did handle it and is doing great! Congratulations everyone involved in producing this superstar.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Finn with Wayne
Male Chocolate Labrador Retriever
Graduated : November, 2020
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN
Raised by: Cheryl & Family of Cross Plains, WI
Molly & Family of Edgerton, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
John & Coleman of Mineral Point, WI
Cindy & David of Waukesha, WI
Finn is a sweet, handsome fella. He was a TV star, appearing on Channel 57 at just 8 weeks of age. He did decide to fall asleep in the middle of his interview. Then it was off to the prison program for Finn followed by some chill time in rural Wisconsin and now in the suburbs with an occasional horse visit! Finn finished his harness training in North Carolina and returned to Wisconsin and is working as a guide for Wayne.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Maui with Megin
Female Standard Poodle
Graduated: October, 2020
Bred by: Oak Hill Farms Standard Poodles of Portage, WI
Raised by: Maureen of Madison, WI
Jennifer & Family of Madison, WI
Maureen of Madison, WI
PawsForward of New Lisbon, WI
DOB: January 19, 2019
Maui is a very calm, sweet puppy who is starting her guide dog training with a raiser who is experienced in Poodle-Think!! We wondered how long it would take Maui to teach Maureen how to adapt to her standards. Well she did so and was the third pup in the PawsForward program in New Lisbon, WI. After a trip off to North Carolina for 4 months of harness training she returned to begin working with Megin, her new partner. The last few days of training were fun as Minneapolis had a snowstorm. Hopefully we can have a huge graduation party next year for all of our 2019 grads!
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Jet with Mike
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: July 2020
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN
Raised by: Julie & Family of Fitchburg, WI
Jennifer & Family of Madison
Pawsforward of Oxford, WI
Jane & Family of Madison, WI
DOB: August 31, 2018
Jet came to us from a breeder who has produced several guide dogs for OccuPaws. Jet is an active lad so when he was all growed up, he went to Oxford boot camp and then back to a family. He did so well, that he is now completed harness training, been delivered to Mike and has officially been certified human and guide!!
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Carmel with Kari
Female Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated : June, 2020
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
Raised by: Lois of Fitchburg, WI
Annie of Madison, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
John & Coleman of Mineral Point, WI
Emily & Evan of Madison
DOB: January 8, 2018
Carmel is one of four puppies from Ivy’s first litter. She started her training with a raiser who is new to OccuPaws, but not new to puppies! After wearing out Lois, it was on to Campus life and keeping up with Annie. Then this energetic girl was off to Oxford to get lots and lots of exercise! After checking to see if she has settled enough, it was decided she needed a little more active time in her final months in a rural setting in Wisconsin before her final time with Emily & Evan. Congrats to Carmel – she is now a calm, collected, easy going pup, enjoying her new job with Kari. Carmel is Kari’s third guide dog.
GRADUATION VIDEO COMING
Guide Dog Denver with Maggie
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: November 2019
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN
Raised by: Ruthanna of Madison, WI
Brian & Family of Waunakee, WI
Alex of Madison, WI
Denver joined us because he felt his new raiser, Ruthanna was getting way too much sleep with Bella, so he nudged Bella on to a new raiser and took up residence where Bella left off. Then time to move on to a family life for a while where he had tons of fun! He then to Madison for a little higher level of traffic and distractions. That went so well, he jumped past a couple older dogs and started harness training a little early and came back to be placed with Maggie. Denver will become even smarter as he will be guiding Maggie to and from college classes, and maybe not sleeping through all the lectures!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Brie with Aaron
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: October 2019
Bred by: Fireline Labradors of Winnipeg, Manitoba
Raised by: Jauch Family of Janesville, WI
John & Coleman of Mineral Point, WI
Mindy & Family of Lodi, WI
Sue of Verona, WI
Brie and her sister Brandy joined OccuPaws a little older than normal. They had to wait until they were old enough to receive their rabies vaccinations to travel from Canada, where they were born, to Wisconsin, where they hope to become guide dogs! Brandy nearly completed all training ending up being career changed, but Brie has completed training and Aaron & Brie have been trained and they are now a working team. Brie is a very fast walker and will likely challenge Aurora or Bailey to a guide race!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Bailey with Dave
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated : September, 2019
Donated by: ClearCreek Labradors of Northern, IL
Raised by: Julie, Bill & Family of Verona, WI
Kristy & Kurt of Beloit, WI
Bailey is a happy, free spirit who completed his harness training and went to work, trying to fill the paws of retiring guide dog Divit. First reports are that Bailey is about as fast as Divit was many years ago which will get Dave to and from work much faster. And Bailey just loves having a play buddy, even though they are supposed to be civilized and well trained!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Amy with Lindsey
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: August, 2019
Bred by: ClearCreek Labradors of Northern, IL
Raised by: Bob & Joan of Plain, WI
Pawsforward of Oxford, WI
Alex of Madison, WI
Amy is a typical Clearcreek pup, calm and sweet and well mannered. She is a little quieter than her littermate Allie. She’ll be going off to Nursing school this fall with her new partner Lindsey. They have practiced finding classrooms and the trips to and from school and are set to go.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Topaz with Susan
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: June 2019
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN
Raised by: Mary of Mazomanie, WI
Sheila & Shaun & Family of Janesville
Dale & family of Barneveld, WI|
Alex of Madison, WI
Beth & Family of Madison, WI
Topaz is litter-mates with Guide Dog Tundra. Both are quiet, confident, gentle girls. Topaz is Susan’s second OccuPaws guide dog. Previously Meadow was doing all the guide work and vendor fair activities, but now he gets to take it easy. He’ll be spending his senior years, relaxing with Susan’s husband at work.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Wizard with Renee
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: May, 2019
Bred by: Hayshaker Labradors of SW Minnesota
Raised by: Schmitt Family of Verona, WI
Maureen of Madison, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
Walt & Karen of Lodi, WI
Wizard started working right after Tundra joined up with Jeff. Wizard had plenty of practice with subways and trains, but wasn’t quite ready for the “Metra” and the wide gaps between the platform and the train. But being a super dog, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, learning how to get his person and himself safely onto and off the train. Maybe he’ll demonstrate his leaps and bounds at an upcoming graduation celebration (date and time TBD)
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Tundra with Jeff
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: May, 2019
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN
Raised by: Dale & Family of Barneveld, WIPawsforward of Oxford, WI
Lexi of Evansville, WI
Sue of Verona, WI
Maureen of Madison, WI
Tundra is a compact bundle of puppy happiness. She finished up her training with Jennifer and moved to the big city to guide Jeff. She has a buddy in his home as Jeff’s previous guide dog is now enjoying sleeping in and letting Tundra take over his guide duties. She is doing everything just right and enjoying her new job and friends.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Thor with Jen
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: October 2018
Bred by: ClearCreek Labradors of Northern, IL
Raised by: Bob & Joan of Plain, WI
Maggie of Madison, WI
Kassel of Mazomanie, WI
Kristen & Jim of Cobb, WI
Thor is a happy, easy going dog but full of energy and confidence. He can put on that game face when he is harness and become a total goofball when he is told “Free”. He replaced Nitro who was a bold, energetic boy who just loved talking a bit too much. Thor thus far has been far quieter!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Nash with Baylee
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: September 2018
Bred by: Neverest Labs of Wisconsin
Raised by: Dave & Marcia of Madison, WI
Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Kassel of Mazomanie, WI
Courtney of Milwaukee, WI
Nash is a fun loving, happy boy who is now the Big Dog on Campus! He is guiding his new partner, Baylee, around college campus. Nash does love the tummy rubs during classes, but has to get up and find a new classroom every hour or so. Busy, busy, busy…. He is enjoying his new job!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Storm with Dan
Male Golden Retriever
Graduated: September, 2018
Donated by: Harvestime Kennels of Menasha, WI
Raised by: Kris & Jim of Cobb, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
Jenna of Sun Prairie, WI
John & Coleman of Mineral Point, WI
Storm was a bundle of confident, fuzzy hair, bold and fearless and knowing his own mind. We expected great things from Mr Fluff Ball and he proved himself to be an excellent student! He has finished being placed with his new partner, Dan, According to Dennis, the GDMI training the team, it is as near a perfect match as you could ever hope for. Instant bond and good buds! Have fun guys.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Que with Kathy
Male Black Standard Poodle
Graduated: April, 2018
Donated by: Avalon Standard Poodles of Darlington, WI
Raised by: Mary of Mazomanie, WI
Dale of Barneveld, WI
Maureen of Madison, WI
Lauren of Madison, WI
Que is a happy, fun loving boy who always wanted to be playing with his brothers. Que finished working with Dennis in his guide dog training and has returned to the Chicago area to begin work with his new partner, Kathy. Que is one remarkable dog, undaunted by racing Ltrain cars, intense stage plays, large groups of other dogs, he awakens everyday to the tune of “Cupid, Draw back your Bow!!” and has adopted the Knick Name Quepid.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Nemo with Evelyn
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: October, 2017
Bred by: Neverest Labs, Fox Lake, WI (Tiki x George ’16)
Raised by: Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI
PawsForward – Oxford, WI
Nemo is litter-mates with Guide Dog Nash who graduated right after Nemo. He is a very loyal boy who only has eyes for his new partner, Evelyn. Nemo loves to explore with her and is looking forward to moving to the Madison area and learning new routes. (as long as there are treats involved!)
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Max with Mark
Male Golden RetrieverGraduated: October, 2017
From: Harvestime Kennels of Menasha, WI
Raised by: Mary Of Mazomanie, WI
Paws Forward of Oshkosh, WIBob & Joan of Plain, WI
Kris & Jim of Cobb, WI Max has moved into the home and embrace of his new partner Mark. Mark was fortunate that his wait for a guide dog was a short one since Max just happened to match him perfectly!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Faith with Ruth
Female Black Standard Poodle
Graduated : July 2017
Bred by: Sun-Golden Kennels, Edgerton, WI (River x Shadow ’15)
Raised by: PawsForward – Oshkosh, WI
Diane of Sun Prairie, WI
Sue of Verona, WI
Faith is truly a work of faith and prayers – after what seemed like an eternity of waiting for the prefect dog, Ruth was matched with Faith. Faith settled into her new home and career fairly quickly for a poodle, and is now definitely looks to be a match made in heaven.
Faith decided early on that she is bonded and has a perfect forever home and partnership. Congratulations Ruth & Faith!!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Higgins with Alex
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated : June, 2017
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN (Clipper X Chester ’15)
Raised by: Jim & Kristen of Cobb, WI
Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI
Higgins is litter-mates with PIT Hank. He is very sweet and gentle and loves to work with his handler. Higgins joined our program at 9 months old. Higgins turned out to be a perfect match for Alex, who had waited about three years for the perfect dog to match his needs. While it was a long wait, everyone agrees, Higgins is the PERFECT dog for Alex.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Hank with Randy
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated : May, 2017
Bred by: The Captain’s Labradors, Lake Shore, MN (Clipper X Chester ’15)
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Lexi & Family of Evansville, WI
Hank is litter-mates with PIT Higgins who was just placed with Alex. He has a quiet, sensitive and gentle nature. Hank joined our program at 10 months old. and now at less than 2 years old, is working for Randy. Randy has the distinction of be our first “Wave” graduate. That means he has retired his first OccuPaws Guide Dog Deegan, and now has Hank. Deegan is enjoying his retirement, still living with Randy and Tammy.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Chance with Doyle
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated : November 2016
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association (Callie x Reese ’14)
Raised by: Don of Verona, WI
Angela of Beaver Dam, WI
Nicole of Kenosha, WI
PawsForward Program – Oshkosh, WI
Jim & Kristen of Cobb, WI
Chance is a very outgoing boy, full of energy, but when in harness, he is all business. Chance loves making new friends and never stops searching for his next great adventure. He and Doyle bonded very quickly and will be great new friends.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Beacon with Kelly
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: October, 2016
Bred by: Anduin River Labradors, West Allis, WI (Libby x George ’14)
Raised by: PawsForward – Oshkosh, WI
Cathy of Mount Horeb, WI
Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Beacon is a mellow, unassuming boy. He has found the perfect partner for him with Kelly, who has had 3 previous guide dogs over a 32 year period. That makes Kelly the most experienced guide dog user in the OccuPaws Family!
Beacon spent most of his puppyhood in rural settings, but has adapted to a more urban lifestyle in the Milwaukee area. He and Kelly look like they are well on the way to a 4th successful partnership with Kelly.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Blessing with Daniel
Female Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated : October, 2016
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association (Maizy x Owen ’14)
Raised by: Bob & Joanne of Plain, WI
Don of Verona, WI
PawsForward – Oshkosh, WI
Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI
Blessing is litter-mates with Guide Dog Bonus who graduated last month. Blessing is a gorgeous little girl who just cannot get enough love and attention! Blessing has two personalities – the wiggle-waggle greeter and the calm, cool working dog. Daniel has perfected the technique of turning on and off that personality switch…quite impressive!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Bonus with Fallon
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated : September, 2016
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association (Maizy x Owen ’14)
Raised by: PawsForward – Oshkosh, WI
Jim & Kristen of Cobb, WI
Bonus is litter-mates with PIT Blessing, who will become a guide dog later this month. Bonus is an easy-going boy who can make friends easily and already we can see he has a friend for life in his new partner, Fallon. We are so glad we decided to acquire this fourth pup from Blessing’s litter – he is a winner. The following graduation video is very special as the song was sung by Fallon!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Aurora with Kathy
Female Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: May 2016
Bred by: OccuPaws Guide Dog Association (Callie x Reese ’14)
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
PawsForward Program – Oshkosh, WI
Pat & Ruth of Waunakee, WI
Aurora is litter-mates with Guide Dog Chance. She is a very interactive dog who loves to please. She also is a very fast walker which made her a perfect match for Kathy who is also a very fast walker and experienced guide dog user. This pair bonded very quickly and Aurora’s eagerness to please helped to make this a wonderful team.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Valor with Bruce
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: October 2015
Bred by: Neverest Labs, Fox Lake, WI (Becky x Reese ’14)
Raised by: PawsForward Program – Oshkosh, WI
Morris & Kim Davis of Madison, WI
Mary of Mazomanie, WI
Sue of Verona, WI
Mary & Emily of Whitefish Bay, WI
Valor is a happy, hardworking boy. He was a favorite puppy of ours from the beginning and has matured into a wonderful young man. Bruce worked very hard on brushing up his O & M skills prior to receiving Valor, and it paid off with a great team.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Sonar with Mitch
Female Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: May, 2015
Bred by: Canine Hope for Diabetics, CA (Bella x Teddy ’13)
Raised by: Jim & Lacy of Menasha, WI
PawsForward Program – Oshkosh, WI
Angela of Beaver Dam, WI
Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Sonar came to us from Canine Hope for Diabetics as a pup who just wasn’t suited to diabetic alerting. Fortunately for OccuPaws, Sonar was just perfect for a guide dog and will be at Mitch’s side when he goes back to school.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Tango with Paul
Male Black Standard Poodle
Graduated: May, 2015
Bred by: Sun-Golden Kennels, Edgerton, WI (Violet x Lincoln ’13)
Raised by: Jennifer of Oshkosh, WI
Kristin of Beloit, WI
PawsForward Program – Oshkosh, WI
Diane of Sun Prairie, WI
Tango is the third full guide dog donated to OccuPaws by Sun Golden Kennels. With a trip planned to Germany, Tango will become our first international traveler. During his training, Tango mastered the art of Zen flying from under the seat!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Polar with Mike
Male Black Standard PoodleGraduated: September, 2014
Donated by: Sun-Golden Kennels, Edgerton, WI (Katie x Lincoln ’12)
Raised by: Matt of Lake Mills, WI
Diane of Sun Prairie, WIPAWS Forward Program – Oshkosh, WI
Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI According to their instructor, Mike and Polar are both similar – distinguished and proper on the outside but fun-loving and a little goofy on the inside. Sounds like a perfect match!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Reagan with Patty
Female Yellow Labrador RetrieverGraduated: September 2014
Donated by: Neverest Labs, Fox Lake, WI (Becky x Owen ’12)
Raised by: Marie Ann & Family of Oshkosh, WI
PAWS Forward Program – Oshkosh, WIAngela of Beaver Dam, WI
Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI Reagan is a loving, loyal companion, and according to her instructor – one of the best and a perfect fit to Patty. It is obvious watching them together that they have already formed an unbreakable bond!
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Pilot with Jeff
Male Chocolate Labrador RetrieverGraduated: June, 2014
From: Neverest Labs Fox Lake, WI
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Uliana of Pardeeville, WIPaws Forward of Oshkosh, WI
Don of Verona, WI “The Life of PI” became complete in June, 2014 when he met his soulmate, Jeff. Ellie, our GDMI who taught Jeff how to work with Pilot, said they were a perfect match-both relaxed, full of fun and made each other happy.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Nugget with Mike
Male Golden RetrieverGraduated: May, 2014
From: Janet Seivert Orange City, FL
Raised by: Sue of Oregon, WI
Paws Forward of Oshkosh, WI
Nugget has moved into the home and hearts of his new partner Mike and his family. Reports from the family are that the only difficulty was not getting to cuddle with Nugget those first few days that the new team was bonding. That wait is over.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Murphy with Debra
Male Black Standard PoodleGraduated: April, 2014
Donated by: Sun-Golden Kennels – Edgerton, WI
Raised by: Paws Forward of Oshkosh, WI
Dianne of Sun Prairie, WI
Murphy is the second poodle to graduate from OccuPaws and the first adult guide dog. Debra reports even though she had to wait a long time for a poodle, Murphy was well worth the wait.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Patti with Nicole
Female Black Labrador RetrieverGraduated: November 2013
Donated by: Empress Labradors, IL
Raised by: Nealy of Germantown, WI
Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI
Patti joined OccuPaws at 8 months old after being shown at bench. Patti is a sweet, soft girl who loves being pampered in her new home by her whole forever family.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Angus with Leo
Male Black Labrador RetrieverGraduated: May 2013
Bred by: OccuPaws’ Brood Bitch, Roxie, & Stud Services by Neverest Labs, Fox Lake, WI
Raised by: Marlette of Verona, WI
James & Julie of Verona, WI
Angus is litter-mates with Guide Dog Graduates Apple and Amber. Since their very first interview, Angus and Leo have been fast friends and a great team.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Gordy with Michael
Male Yellow Labrador RetrieverGraduated: June 2012
Sponsored by: Gordon Flesch Foundation
Donated by: Shamrock Acres Kennels, Waunakee, WI
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
At his graduation ceremony, it was obvious Gordy was well loved and will have lots of hugs from Michael and his family.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Linus with Jeannie
Male Black Labrador RetrieverGraduated: January 2012
Donated by: Anthem Labradors, Harvard, IL
Raised by: Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI
Linus is a sweet, gentle boy; a perfect soul-mate to his new partner. Linus will soon be learning some new service dog skills to adapt to his partner’s changing needs.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Sparta with Tami
Male Black Labrador RetrieverGraduated: July 2011
Bred by: OccuPaws’ Brood Bitch, Roxie & Stud Services by Liberty Labradors, WI
Raised by: Kathy & Marcie of Watertown, WI
Sparta is now a regular train commuter between Kenosha and Chicago, as well as a veteran on the El. Sparta is a litter-mate of Guide Dog Sonny.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Sonny with Jeremiah
Male Black Labrador RetrieverGraduated: July 2011
Bred by: OccuPaws’ Brood Bitch, Roxie & Stud Services by Liberty Labradors, WI
Raised by: Deb of Sun Prairie, WI
At graduation, Jeremiah wowed the audience with an Elvis song good enough to turn Sonny into a hound dog for just an instant! Sonny is a litter-mate of Guide Dog Sparta.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Hanna with Jenni
Female Black Labrador RetrieverGraduated: October 2008
Donated & Named in Honor of: Ann Garmon of Anthem Labradors, Harvard, IL
Jenni and Hanna make a great team. Together, they will travel many miles.
Graduation Video
Guide Dog Gilbert with Allison
Male Yellow Labrador RetrieverGraduated: August 2008
Donated by: Anthem Labradors, Harvard, IL
Allison and Gilbert were the first guide dog team to graduate from OccuPaws. Gilbert has given Allison the confidence and pride to safely navigate her college campus.
VA Dog Timber with Sophia
Male Chocolate Labrador Retriever
Graduated: January 2010
Bred by: Anthem Labradors, Harvard, IL
Raised by: Kathy & Marci of Watertown, WI
Kurt & Kristy of Beloit, WI
Sophia and Timber graduated as a CVC Dog Team. However, the pair are now taking on more responsibility and working to gain more independence.
Graduation Video
CVC Dog Candy with Sawyer
Female Standard Poodle
Graduated: August 2011
Bred by: Sun-Golden Kennels, Edgerton, WI
Raised by: Ernie of Beloit, WI
Michelle of Janesville, WI
Sue of Janesville, WI
Dietrich of Madison, WI
James of Verona, WI
Candy is our first standard poodle placement. The feel of a labrador’s coat when pet backwards was unnatural to Sawyer but when we discovered that a poodle felt just right, we knew Candy was the dog for the job.
Graduation Video
CVC Dog Harley with Olivia
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: November 2010
Bred by: Anthem Labradors, Harvard, IL
Raised by: Mark & Barb of Cross Plains, WI
Once Harley learned that is WAS OK to get on Olivia’s bed, the pair was officially trained. Otherwise, Olivia would have been forced to share a dog bed with Harley in the living room, because she was NOT going to let him sleep alone!
Graduation Video
CVC Dog Banjo with Brooke
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: September 2010
Bred by: Anthem Labradors, Harvard, IL
Raised by: Michelle and Family of WI
Ernie of Beloit, WI
Jeff & Lisa of Oregon, WI
Kim of Beloit, WI
At graduation, Brooke’s mother said that Banjo is going above and beyond the call of a CVC dog and has become Brooke’s soul-mate.
Graduation Video
CVC Dog Lilly with Valentino
Female Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: August 2009
Bred by: Bob & Mary of Chicago, IL
Raised by: Marlene of Beloit, WI
Chuck & Linda of Clinton, WI
Tino and Lilly are a perfect match!! They bonded immediately and have become inseparable pals.
CVC Dog Moby
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: June 2009
Bred by: Liberty Labradors, WI
Raised by: Ploegert Family
CVC Dog Bodie
Male Black Labrador Retriever
Graduated: June 2009
Bred by: Anthem Labradors, Harvard, IL
Bodie was the first CVC Dog to graduate from OccuPaws. Life has dramatically changed with the addition of Bodie.
Service Dog Courage with Mateo & McHale
Male Yellow Labrador Retriever
Graduated: April 2019
Bred by: OccuPaws, Madison, WI
Raised by: Mary Pat of Dodgeville, WI
Kris & Jim of Cobb, WI
Dale & Family of Barneveld, WI
PawsForward of Oxford, WI
Annie of Madison, WI
Courage, one of four pups from OccuPaws Ivy’s first litter, has found a job perfect for him, as a service dog for Mateo and McHale. He will have some mighty big paws (literally) to fill as he steps in where the beloved Daisy left off. Daisy crossed the Rainbow Bridge in December, 2018 and she was the most pampered, cuddled and hugged dog that we have seen. We expect Courage will do great things in his new career.