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A MESSAGE FROM THE TREASURER:
THE POWER BEHIND THE MISSION
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As Treasurer of OccuPaws, much of my role is focused on sustainability — ensuring that the resources entrusted to us today will continue to support guide dog teams for years to come. While this work often happens quietly behind the scenes, it has given me a deep appreciation for something far greater than numbers: the trust and belief that our community places in this mission.
Every dollar given, every hour volunteered, and every act of support reflects a choice — someone choosing to believe in what OccuPaws stands for.
One moment that has stayed with me is a conversation with a volunteer puppy raiser. They spoke candidly about early mornings, chewed shoes, and the patience required day after day. And yet, they shared it all with a smile and a sense of pride. In that moment, I was reminded that OccuPaws is not powered by spreadsheets or meetings — it is powered by people. People who say “yes” again and again, even when it’s hard… and sometimes, really hard. That kind of commitment is what makes this organization so special.
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As we step into the spring season — a time of renewal and growth — I invite you to take one small step in sharing our mission. Tell someone about OccuPaws. Encourage them to learn more about puppy raising, volunteering, or supporting our work. These simple actions, multiplied across a community that cares, create a lasting impact.
To our volunteers, donors, and supporters: thank you. Your dedication transforms careful planning into meaningful change. Because of you, OccuPaws continues to empower independence and change lives — one guide dog team at a time.
With Gratitude,
Kassel Matushak
Treasurer
OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
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"... OccuPaws is not powered by spreadsheets or meetings —
it is powered by people."
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DON'T MISS THESE UPCOMING EVENTS!
Where community and purpose come together.
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Sunday, April 19
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Shoe Box
1314 Canal Street, Black Earth
Event to benefit OccuPaws.
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BRAT FRY AT THE SHOE BOX
Sunday, May 10
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Shoe Box
1314 Canal Street, Black Earth
Event to benefit OccuPaws.
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10TH ANNUAL OUTDOOR SUMMER CRAFT, VENDOR & FLEA MARKET
Sunday, May 24
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
HABERMANN PARK
180 Fair Street, Lodi
Event to benefit OccuPaws.
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BRAT STAND IN PLAIN
Friday & Saturday, May 29 & 30
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
CENEX
1125 Wachter Avenue, Plain
Event to benefit OccuPaws.
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EVENTS FROM JUNE ONWARDS
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June 14 & July 19: Brat Fry at the Shoe Box
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JULY 12: Craft for Paws Outdoor Market
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SEPTEMBER 13: 10th Annual Puptoberfest
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CLIENT'S HIGHLIGHTS
Every new team is a story of trust and independence
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THIS IS OUR JOURNEY
WAYNE & GUIDE DOG FINN: FROM UNCERTAINTY TO INDEPENDENCE
Before receiving his guide dog, Wayne could already see what was coming. While he still had some usable eyesight, he knew it would not last. Rather than waiting, he made a courageous and proactive decision — he applied for an OccuPaws guide dog ahead of time, preparing for a future he knew would soon arrive.
Like many navigating vision loss, Wayne relied on a white cane. While helpful, it came with challenges. It often felt more like a signal to others than a source of confidence. What gave him hope, however, was something he had seen in others. Friends with guide dogs moved with ease and assurance — something Wayne longed for in his own life.
After researching different organizations, OccuPaws stood out. The opportunity to train in his own neighborhood environment made the program feel personal and practical — exactly what he needed.
Then came Finn.
| “Finn is my eyes,” Wayne shares. | What once required counting steps and constant guessing has been replaced with confidence and trust. Today, Wayne simply gives direction, and Finn leads the way. From navigating to the mailbox and dumpster to moving through his workplace — finding the entrance, time clock, and workstation — Finn provides both guidance and peace of mind. | | | | |
Their partnership didn’t start without uncertainty. As a first-time guide dog handler, Wayne was nervous. Would they bond? Would he give the right commands? Through training, those doubts began to fade. Step by step, they built trust and grew into a strong, reliable team.
Finn is not only a guide but also an intuitive companion. He knows Wayne’s routines and responds with consistency and confidence. At work, he leads directly to the time clock — something located far from the entrance — without hesitation. That level of reliability is both remarkable and reassuring.
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“Finn is awesome — well-behaved, intuitive,
and a great companion,” Wayne says.
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Together, they move through the world with a newfound sense of freedom. Wherever they go, Finn draws smiles and compliments for his calm demeanor and skill. For Wayne, the ability to go anywhere with confidence is something he deeply values.
Behind this partnership is a community that made it possible. Wayne is grateful for the puppy raisers who dedicated their time and patience, the trainers who guided the process, and the donors who made it possible for him to receive Finn at no cost. The continued support from OccuPaws means everything.
Wayne’s journey is a powerful reminder that independence is not built alone — it is made possible by a community that believes in the mission. Because of that, Wayne doesn’t have to navigate the world alone. He has Finn — and together, they move forward with confidence every day.
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VOLUNTEER IN ACTION
Serving with heart, dedication and purpose
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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT:
ANNE'S "YES" THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING
What started as a simple idea — maybe I’ll get another dog — turned into something much bigger for Anne.
Back in December 2018, Anne wasn’t looking to change lives. She just wanted a second Labrador Retriever. Living in Madison, she was already familiar with OccuPaws and had heard about career change dogs that sometimes became available for adoption. So she submitted an application.
But then something unexpected happened. At a local Dog Fair, Anne stopped by the OccuPaws booth — and a conversation with a volunteer changed everything. She learned about the need for puppy raisers and sitters, and with years of experience fostering nearly 100 rescue dogs, she thought, why not give it a try?
She started as a puppy sitter. And then… she didn’t stop.
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After caring for her first two OccuPaws pups, Anne naturally stepped into the role of a puppy raiser. Her third dog, Badger, stayed with her for five months before being career changed — and officially became part of her family. But even that wasn’t the end of the story. Anne kept saying yes.
Today, she has raised or cared for nearly 30 OccuPaws puppies — each one playing a part in helping someone gain independence, confidence, and mobility.
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“You’re Not Just Raising
a Puppy”
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Anne has always loved working with dogs, but volunteering with OccuPaws brought something more.
“It was always rewarding to help dogs find homes,” she shares. “But with OccuPaws, you’re helping a person gain independence. That makes it even more meaningful.”
Could This Be You?
Anne didn’t set out to raise dozens of puppies. She simply said yes to one opportunity.And that one “yes” turned into years of impact — for her, for the puppies, and for the individuals whose lives would be forever changed.
| | SAY YES TO BECOMING A PUPPY RAISER! | | |
Puppy raising doesn’t require a special lifestyle… just your everyday one — with a really cute sidekick by your side.
Errands. Grocery runs. Walks around town. Life at home.
It all counts. And yes — the puppy can go with you. These ordinary moments are exactly how a future guide dog learns to navigate the world.
Some puppy raisers bring their pups to work.
Some practice skills out in the community.
Some simply live their lives — and bring the puppy along for the ride.
OccuPaws is seeking compassionate volunteers to serve as puppy raisers for future guide dogs. As a puppy raiser, you’ll welcome a guide dog in training into your home and daily life, helping them build confidence, learn basic obedience, and experience the world around them during their time with you.
OccuPaws provides training, veterinary care, supplies, and ongoing support every step of the way. What you provide is just as important — your time, your patience, and your willingness to say yes.
Because every guide dog begins with someone who opened their home… and helped a puppy take its first steps toward changing a life.
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You live your life. They learn how to navigate it.
Raise a puppy. Change a life.
| | Visit occupaws.org or call (608) 772-3787 to learn more today. | | |
GUIDE DOG IN TRAINING SPOTLIGHTS
From eager pup to future partner — one milestone at a time.
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EYE SPY SOME VERY GOOD PUPPIES!
Seventeen of our GDiTs reported for eye check day — and let’s just say, this was one well-behaved waiting room.
One by one, they waited patiently for their turn… no complaints, no drama (okay, maybe just a little side-eye ). A few decided it was the perfect opportunity to catch up on their beauty sleep — because nothing says “ready for my exam” like a mid-wait snooze.
Huge credit to our amazing volunteer raisers for keeping everyone calm, relaxed, and focused — you make it look easy.
Well done, puppies!
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T-LITTER UPDATE:
ONE LAST HUDDLE
The T-Litter gathered for one final group nap before heading off to their puppy raiser homes. Snuggled together in a cozy pile, these future guide dogs soaked up a few last quiet moments with their siblings.
Soon, their paths will begin to unfold in different homes across Wisconsin, where dedicated volunteer puppy raisers will guide them through the first steps of their Guide Dog in Training journey—learning obedience, socialization, and the many skills that will one day help them change someone’s life.
While they may be going their separate ways for now, they remain forever connected as part of the same special beginning. From tiny paws to life-changing partners—this is where the journey begins.
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HARNESS BOUND:
GDiT FLASH & FINCH
Congratulations to sibling duo Flash and Finch for successfully passing their harness training evaluation! This is an exciting step in their guide dog journey as they continue their advancement.
Passing the harness evaluation demonstrates their growing focus, confidence, and readiness to work in harness as future guide dogs. Seeing these two siblings reach this milestone together makes the moment even more special.
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Their progress reflects the dedication of their trainers, puppy raisers, and the entire OccuPaws community who help guide them every step of the way.
Way to go, Flash and Finch! We are so proud of you both and can’t wait to see what comes next.
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GDiT PENNY'S FIRST HOCKEY GAME
Guide Dog in Training Penny had her first loud outing—and what a fun one it was! She got to attend a UW Women’s Hockey game at LaBahn Arena, taking in the sights, sounds, and excitement of the arena like a true fan.
For a puppy learning the ropes of being a future guide dog, experiences like this are incredibly valuable. Busy crowds, cheering fans, bright lights, and all the action on the ice help Penny practice staying calm, focused, and confident in new environments.
And let’s be honest… being a guide dog in training does come with some pretty fun perks. From hockey games to community events, these pups get to explore all kinds of places while learning the skills they’ll one day use to help someone live more independently.
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HELPFUL TIPS & INFORMATION
The more you know, the more pawsitive the impact.
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STAY CONNECTED:
INSIGHTS FROM THE GLOBAL GUIDE DOG COMMUNITY
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As a proud member of the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF), OccuPaws is part of a global network dedicated to advancing guide dog partnerships worldwide.
One way we stay connected is through Visionary, the IGDF’s international journal, published three times a year. Each issue features stories, updates, and insights from guide dog organizations around the world, along with news from IGDF leadership.
For our volunteers, donors, and supporters, Visionary offers a broader look at the impact of this work — and a reminder that what we do at OccuPaws is part of something much bigger.
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VOLUNTEER . DONATE . SHOP
Choose your way to make a difference today.
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OccuPaws is powered by volunteers, and we’re always in need of people willing to share their time, knowledge, and experience. Puppy raisers and Board members are essential, but so are the many behind-the-scenes helpers whose unique skills keep our programs strong.
| | Supporting OccuPaws has never been easier. Make a secure online donation, give instantly by scanning our PayPal or Venmo QR codes, or mail in a check using our downloadable donation form. However you choose to help, your generosity directly supports the training and placement of life-changing guide dogs. Thank you for making independence possible! | | |
OccuPaws relies on generous supply donations to help nurture and train our future guide dogs. When you donate items from our wish list, you’re providing the tools and care our puppies need to grow, learn, and prepare for the life-changing work ahead. Shop & ship from our Amazon Wish List or contact us to arrange a pickup. Thank you for your support!
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OccuPaws is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing fully trained guide dogs at no cost to visually impaired adults across Wisconsin, northern Illinois, eastern Minnesota, and parts of Iowa. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Learn more about OccuPaws using the links below.
| | info@occupaws.org | (608) 772-3787 | | | | |
