Paul + Leonard + Collin

When Paul, a retired foundry worker from Ohio, returned to Guiding Eyes in October 2022 for his second guide dog, he recalled, “I happened upon the CEO, Thomas Panek, in the hallway. Thomas said, ‘You were in my first class in 2014, weren’t you? We had lunch together at the railroad depot in Cold Spring.’” It’s what Paul loves about Guiding Eyes: “Once you get your guide dog there, they treat you like family.”

Paul’s guide dogs are part of the family, too. His retired guide, Leonard, a black male Lab, lives with him and his new guide, Collin, a female yellow Lab. Paul reports that he is often asked about his guide dogs when out and about. “I tell them Collin was named in memory of Dr. Elizabeth Collins, one of the first female graduates of the University of Pennsylvania’s vet school.”

Impressed with Collin’s diligence in guiding, people often ask Paul if Collin is always so focused. “When guide dogs are at home and not working, Paul says, “they do regular dog things. When the harness is on, they take care of me. When the harness if off, I take care of them.”

Asked how the two dogs are different, Paul says, “They are both so intelligent and attentive. Leonard is kind of goofy, and Collin is more reserved, but she is very attached to me already.” The dogs enjoy playing tug-of-war and like to relax together. Paul says, “She rests her head on him and he sighs with happiness.”

Paul is grateful for the quality of care he has received from Guiding Eyes. “If I could, I’d thank everyone personally—the staff, donors and volunteers. They are a life-changer. I live alone, I travel alone. Without Leonard and now, Collin, I would not have the ability to do that. They are not just my dogs, they are my independence, my friends, my companions. And when I’m having a tough day, there’s nothing like giving them a big hug.”