The Eyes Free Sports Podcast: Ep. 159 –Taking a Run with Running Guides from Guiding Eyes for the Blind

In Episode 159 of the Eyes Free Sports podcast, we visit with three members of the Running Guides team at Guiding Eyes for the Blind – Jolene Hollister, Jenna Rovelli, and Sky Foshay. This team oversees the training of guide dogs that are trained to run with their blind or visually impaired handlers. During the conversation, they discussed:

• The history of Guiding Eyes for the Blind and the programs the organization offers
• Their roles with the Running Guides team
• Why Guiding Eyes decided to launch the Running Guides program over 10 years ago
• What they look for in a dog when identifying one that enjoys running
• How the guide dogs are trained to run with their visually impaired handlers
• The leash and harness handlers use with their running guides
• Who makes a good handler for one of these dogs
• Examples of handlers who have graduated from the program
• The importance of physical activity for the blind and visually impaired and how these dogs can help increase these opportunities
• How people can learn more about Running Guides

Check out Guiding Eyes for the Blind at http://guidingeyes.org. For general inquiries about guide dogs, email admissions@guidingeyes.org. For specific questions about Running Guides, email Jolene Hollister at jhollister@guidingeyes.org.