Yorktown and Cortlandt region

Newly elected Rep. Nan Hayworth, R-Mount Kisco, toured Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s Canine Development Center in Patterson and its Headquarters and Training Center in Yorktown.

In Patterson, which is in the midst of a multi-million dollar construction and renovation program, Hayworth observed the cutting-edge early socialization practices used by Guiding Eyes staff and volunteers in preparing puppies for their futures as guide dogs. At Yorktown, she visited with the 170 dogs residing in the kennels, as well as the veterinary hospital, which handles 4,000 dog-visits annually.

“As an ophthalmologist, I understand the life-changing help that guide dogs provide for the blind and visually impaired,” Hayworth said. “Guiding Eyes is the model for effective, efficient and dedicated service to our community, and I’m glad to honor the noble work of their professionals and volunteers.”

“We are truly honored that Congresswoman Hayworth came to visit us,” Guiding Eyes President and CEO William Badger said. “This is an exciting time for her, and we are grateful for her interest in our work.”

Guiding Eyes for the Blind, an internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school, was founded in 1954 to enrich the lives of blind and visually impaired men and women by providing them with the freedom to travel safely, thereby assuring greater independence, dignity and expanded horizons of opportunity.

Since that time, Guiding Eyes has become one of the foremost guide dog schools in the world, graduating more than 7,200 guide dog teams. It provides superbly bred Guiding Eyes dogs, professional training and follow-up support services to students at no cost to them and depends on contributions to fulfill its mission.

The comprehensive cost of breeding, raising, preparing, training, and supporting a Guiding Eyes team is $45,000.

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