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A MESSAGE FROM BOARD MEMBER:
MORE THAN PUPPY-SITTING - A PLACE TO BELONG
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When people ask what it's like to volunteer with OccuPaws, my mind always goes back to our very first Guide Dog in Training.
After attending orientation and two puppy classes, my wife, Susan, and I were excited to welcome Felix into our home for a 12-day stay. It had been over a year since our beloved family dog had crossed the Rainbow Bridge, and we were ready to open our hearts again.
Or so we thought.
OccuPaws teaches every Guide Dog in Training a specific set of commands, and Felix knew them all perfectly. We, on the other hand, were still learning. Every so often we'd accidentally use one of the commands we'd taught our own dogs over the years. Felix would simply look at us with an expression that seemed to say, "I know exactly what you want... but you need to ask me the right way."
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It quickly became clear that we weren't just training Felix—he was training us too.
A month later, Felix came back for another visit, almost as if he wanted to make sure we'd mastered the commands before trusting us with another puppy. Looking back, I smile knowing he became the first of 10 Guide Dogs in Training that Susan and I have raised or puppy sat since 2019.
Since then, our home—affectionately known as "Krate & Kibble" (dog-speak for bed and breakfast)—has welcomed 48 OccuPaws puppies. Every one has brought a unique personality, different challenges, and countless joyful moments.
One lesson has
remained constant:
the learning never stops.
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Even when we don't currently have a puppy at home, we continue attending training classes. Listening to other volunteers share their experiences, celebrating successes, and learning from challenges helps us become better puppy raisers and puppy sitters. Those conversations often prevent small issues from becoming bigger ones and give each puppy the best opportunity to succeed.
Community fundraising events are another favorite part of volunteering. They allow our puppies to practice real-world skills, help volunteers build lasting friendships, and introduce new people to the mission of OccuPaws. Every event also helps provide the food, veterinary care, equipment, and training that make these life-changing partnerships possible.
One thing I've learned over the years is that
no one raises a guide dog alone.
Every successful partnership is made possible by volunteers, donors, trainers, puppy raisers, puppy sitters, and supporters working together with one shared purpose: giving someone who is visually impaired greater independence and confidence.
Susan and I may play only a small part in each puppy's journey, but together with the entire OccuPaws family, those small parts become something extraordinary.
If you've ever wondered whether you could make a difference, I encourage you to say yes. Whether you puppy sit for a weekend, raise a puppy, volunteer at an event, or support our mission in another way, you'll become part of a journey that truly changes lives.
With gratitude,
Ed Elder
Board Directors
OccuPaws Guide Dog Association
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THANK YOU ROTARY CLUB OF MADISON - WEST MIDDLETON!
A heartfelt thank you to the Rotary Club of Madison – West Middleton for inviting OccuPaws Guide Dog Association to share our story and the life-changing work we do in providing guide dogs to people who are blind or visually impaired.
Opportunities like these are invaluable. They allow us to raise awareness about the growing need for guide dogs, educate our community about the journey from playful puppy to trusted guide, and, most importantly, share the incredible stories of how guide dogs have transformed the lives of our clients—restoring independence, building confidence, and opening doors to new possibilities.
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Community outreach is a vital part of our mission, and we are grateful for organizations like Rotary that help us spread the word and inspire others to get involved.
Would your organization like to learn more about OccuPaws?
We would love to speak at your service club, school, business, church, or community organization. Whether you're looking for a guest speaker, an educational presentation, or a community event, we'd be delighted to share the inspiring journeys of our clients, explain how guide dogs change lives, and show how your organization can become part of this life-changing mission.
To schedule a speaking engagement or learn more about OccuPaws, contact us at info@occupaws.org or visit OccuPaws.org.
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THANK YOU, PATTERSON FOUNDATION!
We are incredibly grateful to the Patterson Foundation for awarding a generous grant to OccuPaws Guide Dog Association in support of our mission.
Because of partners like you, we are able to continue raising, training, and placing exceptional guide dogs with individuals who are visually impaired—providing not only greater independence, but also confidence, freedom, and hope.
Every puppy raised, every hour of training, and every life-changing partnership begins with the kindness and generosity of those who believe in our mission. Your investment is more than a grant—it is an investment in brighter futures and life-changing journeys.
From our clients, puppy raisers, volunteers, trainers, and the future guide dogs whose lives will be shaped by your support, thank you for believing in the work we do and the lives it touches.
Thank you for believing in a future where more people can experience the confidence, freedom, and independence that only a guide dog partnership can provide.
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DON'T MISS THESE UPCOMING EVENTS!
Where community and purpose come together.
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OUTDOOR SUMMER MARKET IN LAKE MILLS
Sunday, August 9
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
COMMON PARKS
100 N. Main Street, Lake Mills
Event to benefit OccuPaws
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BRAT FRY AT THE SHOE BOX
Sunday, August 23
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
THE SHOE BOX
1314 Canal Street, Black Earth
Event to benefit OccuPaws
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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
NICK & GUIDE DOG RANGER: FROM FEAR TO FREEDOM
Losing his eyesight changed everything.
"It was a scary life," Nick recalls. "I had to learn how to use a white cane after losing my eyesight. I had to understand my world as a blind person. I had to rely on someone else to help me get around."
Like many people adjusting to vision loss, Nick suddenly found himself navigating a world that felt unfamiliar and uncertain. Every trip outside required planning, confidence was hard to come by, and the independence he once enjoyed seemed out of reach.
Then his eye doctor introduced him to OccuPaws.
What immediately stood out wasn't just the opportunity to receive a guide dog—it was the personalized approach. Nick appreciated that his guide dog training would take place in the environment where he lived and traveled every day.
"Everyone was upfront and friendly," he says. "That made a big difference."
Then came Ranger.
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With Ranger by his side, life began to change in ways Nick never imagined.
"Ranger gave me my independence back," Nick says. "I became confident enough to walk by myself with my dog. Ranger could guide me, and my wife could do her own thing."
For the first time since losing his vision, Nick no longer had to depend on someone else every time he wanted to leave the house. Every successful walk strengthened his confidence. Every destination reached safely reminded him that independence was possible again.
But learning to work with a guide dog meant learning something even more important—trust.
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"I've had dogs before," Nick explains. "But the bond with Ranger is much deeper. I have to trust him."
That trust has grown with every walk. If Ranger suddenly stops, Nick knows there is a reason.
"He'll even stop when he detects ice on our route so we can safely walk around it."
Those moments have taught Nick that Ranger isn't simply following commands. He's making thoughtful decisions to protect his partner.
When asked to describe Ranger, Nick smiles.
"He's fantastic, wonderful, caring, loving... and sometimes stubborn."
Like any Labrador, Ranger has a personality all his own. But to Nick, he's much more than a guide dog—he's family.
One memory stands above all the others.
Early in their partnership, Nick slipped on an icy sidewalk and fell.
"My first thought wasn't about me," he says. "I was worried Ranger had been hurt."
Instead of panicking, Ranger calmly stood over Nick and gently licked his face.
"It was like he was saying, 'I've got your back. Let's keep going.'"
Moments like that remind Nick that Ranger is much more than a guide dog.
"He's my partner, my protector, and my best friend," Nick says.
"I honestly don't know where I'd be without him."
Then, with a smile, he adds, "Give a Lab a treat, and you'll have a friend for life."
Nick is equally grateful for everyone who helped make Ranger's journey possible.
"The time and effort that volunteers and trainers put into raising these dogs is so appreciated," he says. "They give us our independence."
One experience touched him in a particularly meaningful way. After being matched with Ranger, Nick received a letter from an inmate who had helped train him through OccuPaws' Paws Forward program.
"It was very touching," Nick recalls.
That letter reminded him that Ranger's journey was shaped by many caring hands long before they ever met. From puppy raisers and sitters to trainers, volunteers, donors, and participants in the Paws Forward program, countless people played a role in helping Ranger become the guide dog he is today.
Today, every confident step Nick takes with Ranger is a testament to what can happen when a community comes together with one shared purpose: changing lives through the power of a guide dog.
Because of that collective effort, Nick doesn't just have a guide dog.
He has a trusted partner, a faithful friend, and the freedom to move through life with confidence once again.
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COULD YOU HELP RAISE THE NEXT RANGER?
Nick's story is a reminder that every guide dog partnership begins long before the harness. It begins with someone saying "yes."
Before Ranger gave Nick the confidence to walk independently again, before he stopped at icy sidewalks to keep his partner safe, and before he became Nick's partner, protector, and best friend, he was simply a playful puppy learning the world—guided by caring volunteers every step of the way.
That journey is possible because of puppy raisers.
As an OccuPaws puppy raiser, you'll experience the joy of watching a puppy grow, learn, and discover the world. There will be adventures, laughter, plenty of puppy antics, and countless heartwarming moments. But beyond the fun is something even greater—the knowledge that one day, the puppy you've helped raise could transform someone's life, just as Ranger has transformed Nick's.
The best part? You won't be doing it alone. OccuPaws provides the training, veterinary care, supplies, and ongoing support you need every step of the way.
What you provide is just as important—your time, your patience, and your willingness to say "yes." The typical commitment is just 4 to 6 months, but the impact can last a lifetime.
Help raise the next Ranger. Help change the next life. Become an OccuPaws puppy raiser today.
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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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THREE CHEERS FOR THE "J" TRIOS
Jasper, Jelly, and Jingle have all successfully passed their harness training evaluations! What an incredible milestone for these three talented pups.
Passing a harness training evaluation is a significant milestone, recognizing that each dog has the qualities needed to be considered for the final stage of guide dog training. It reflects the months of dedication from their puppy raisers, trainers, and everyone who has helped shape these remarkable dogs along the way.
And there's more exciting news from the J-litter! Their brother, Jersey, passed his harness evaluation earlier and is already in North Carolina with GDMI Jennifer, where he has begun his harness training.
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible puppy raisers who opened their homes, shared their daily lives, and invested countless hours in helping these puppies grow into confident, capable young dogs. Your patience, commitment, and love have helped lay the foundation for their success, and this milestone is one you should be proud to celebrate too.
Congratulations to Jasper, Jelly, Jingle, and Jersey! We are incredibly proud of all you've accomplished.
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MEET THE WINSOME W-LITTER!
The OccuPaws family just got a little bigger! Please join us in welcoming GDiT Winnie and GDiT Willa—the adorable W-litter and two sweet Labrador sisters who came from Piccadilly Labradors in Lansing, Michigan.
DOUBLE THE CURLS. DOUBLE THE SASS. DOUBLE THE FUN!
Say hello to Yara and Yola! These two Standard Poodle sisters came from Purely Poodles in Muncie, Indiana, and they're already proving that poodles don't just walk into a room — they make an entrance.
A NEW PLAYER HAS ENTERED THE GAME!
No green dinosaur here—just one adorable black Labrador with a big mission ahead!
Meet Yoshi, our newest Guide Dog in Training from the Assistance Dogs International (ADI) Breeding Cooperative.
Inspired by the beloved video game character, this Yoshi is embarking on an adventure of his own. Over the coming months, he'll be unlocking new skills, earning experience points, and leveling up through puppy training, socialization, and real-world adventures.
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MEET THE VIVACIOUS V-LITTER!
Say hello to Vader, Vincent, and Violet—three bundles of wiggles, wagging tails, and puppy charm!
Bred through the Assistance Dogs International (ADI) Breeding Cooperative, these adorable pups spent their first two months right here at OccuPaws, where they were whelped, loved, and given the very best start in life.
Vincent and Violet are now headed off to their wonderful puppy raisers, where they'll begin learning the skills that could one day change someone's life. Meanwhile, Vader has returned to the ADI Breeding Cooperative to continue his important role in the program.
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HEY EVERYONE...VADER HERE!
I traded cheese curds for the Rockies and officially flew to Colorado to begin my service dog training with Canine Partners of the Rockies!
Before I start my new adventure, I have one very important job...Thank you, OccuPaws!
For the past two months, you've loved me, cared for me, spoiled me (just the right amount!), and given me the very best start a puppy could ever ask for. From my very first tail wag to my first big adventure, you've been there every step of the way.
Now it's my turn to keep learning so I can one day be a steady source of comfort, confidence, and support for the person I'll proudly serve.
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I have to admit... I'm a little curious about Colorado.
I wonder if Colorado's winters can outwit Wisconsin's... I guess I'm about to find out!
Until then, I'll be making new friends, learning new skills, and trying not to embarrass myself on my first day of school.
Thanks for cheering me on. I'll do my very best to make everyone proud!
With puppy love,
Vader
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HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY, OZZY!
Ozzy, our curly-haired gentleman has officially turned ONE! As a Standard Poodle, Ozzy naturally believes he's the smartest dog in the room... and honestly, he might not be wrong. He's currently showing off those brains in our Paws Forward program, where he's trading puppy zoomies for impressive skills and proving that behind all those fabulous curls is a future life-changer.
Whether he's mastering new lessons, charming everyone he meets, or simply reminding us that poodles are equal parts elegance and goofball, Ozzy continues to make us smile every day.
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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.
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 | | | | |
