Durban Avenue School Students Get Peek into Lives and Service of Guide Dogs

Students at Durban Avenue Elementary School in Hopatcong received an early November lesson in dedication and hard work, Hopatcong Borough Schools Superintendent Cynthia Randina reported. Earlier this month, education support professional Susan Filak shared with students what she does when she isn't in school (and sometimes when she is).

Filak is a puppy raiser for The Seeing Eye, a nonprofit organization that trains dogs to be service animals and companions for blind people. She talked about the history of how guide dogs became of legal use. She also spoke of the importance and responsibility these helpful companions hold!
 
Students were able to see a demonstration of numerous commands performed by Filak's canine trainee. In an effort to train these dogs to be prepared for all the situations they might face in everyday life, she said she often brings her puppies-in-training to school.

Filak told the students that not all dogs are able to pass the rigorous test of being a guide dog. Puppies who do not receive a passing grade in the training program are put up for adoption to go to a happy and safe home.