What It's Really Like Training a Guide Dog for a Blind Person

In this episode of What It's Really Like, I sit down with a professional guide dog trainer from Guide Dogs of America whose career path is anything but ordinary. Before training guide dogs, she worked as an animal trainer at Universal Studios and spent time training animals at a zoo — experience that now shapes the incredible, highly specialized work she does helping guide dogs prepare to become the eyes of a blind or visually impaired handler. I talk with her about what it actually takes to train a guide dog, the differences between training animals for entertainment versus training for lifesaving service work, and the emotional and technical skill it takes to prepare a dog for one of the most important jobs there is. We also dig into what it's like learning to work with a blind person — the trust, communication, and adjustments that go into that process from the trainer's side. Guide Dogs of America provides expertly trained guide dogs, service dogs, and facility dogs to people in need — completely free of charge, thanks to volunteers, staff, and generous donors.  

Learn more about Guide Dogs of America: https://www.guidedogsofamerica.org/  

Pre-order my children's book, Eltie Takes the Lead! A heartwarming story inspired by the journey of a guide dog puppy, perfect for young readers who love animals and big hearts.

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Thank you for supporting this episode and the incredible work of guide dog puppy raisers everywhere! 

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Hi! I’m Molly Burke — a fashion-loving, sushi-obsessed, makeup-wearing millennial who just so happens to be blind. Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa at 4 years old, I began public speaking at age 5 and haven’t stopped since. From motivational talks to modeling, I’m passionate about creating a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Even though I can’t see, I believe there’s always a bright side — and I’m here to help you find it. 💕