Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU)

“Opening Doors to Independence and Opportunity”

 

Welcome to the Pine Tree Guide Dog Users Monthly News Update, a nationally recognized publication for guide dog handlers and others interested in the guide dog movement. Read the archives at www.PineTreeGuideDogUsers.org/monthly-news-updates

 

Community Connect

This section features community updates and more.

  • What’s new in PTGDU’s Educational Corner? Take a look at our new Pet Owner’s Guide, designed to promote safe, respectful interactions when pets encounter a guide dog team. You can help spread awareness by sharing it with friends and neighbors, so they understand how to safely manage pets when guide dog teams are nearby.
  • Hide-and-seek. Harness hiding in plain sight? Favorite squeaky toy mysteriously “relocated”? Even that ball your dog enthusiastically chased… then promptly forgot about in the yard? The OOrion smartphone AI app helps you track it all down with ease, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying the moments that matter.
  • It’s checkup time. Take advantage of the ACVO-SAVES program, which provides free eye wellness exams for active guide dogs in the month of May. These screenings are designed to help protect your dog’s vision and support their ongoing work. Registration is now open through April 30, and proof of training is required.
  • Pretty as a picture. Brighten your day with Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s wag-worthy phone wallpapers. The collection features four downloadable photos, each with its own vibe—from playful puppy moments to calm, focused future guide dogs in harness—so you can switch things up whenever you like.
  • Do dogs know they’re dogs? Find out on the Brains On! Science Podcast for Kids, where canine cognition expert Alexandra Horowitz helps unravel this puzzling question! You’ll also explore fun topics like whether dogs dream, if they have their own “languages,” and much more—perfect for curious minds who love learning about their furry friends.
  • Risky business. Keep your dog happy, healthy, and safe! Follow the Food & Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine’s tips for storing pet food and reporting problems with contaminated food.
  • Spring cleaning just got a whole lot easier! Doggo Digest shares eight clever, easy-to-follow tips for banishing pet hair from every nook and cranny of your home, from couches to carpets to those hard-to-reach corners. With a few smart tricks, you can enjoy a fresh, hair-free home.

 

Advocacy Matters

This section features news on access and legislative issues.

  • Rideshare resolution. Lyft recently reached a settlement in Minnesota after drivers repeatedly denied rides to college student Tori Andres and her guide dog. The Minnesota Department of Human Rights determined that these denials violated the state’s Human Rights Act. Read more about the settlement and the steps that Lyft is now required to take.
  • It’s the law. Join Golden State Guide Dog Handlers on Sunday, April 26, from 7:30–8:45 PM EST to hear retired lawyer Linda MacLeod discuss her experience suing Uber Technologies, Inc. in Small Claims Court after being denied rides because of her guide dog. She’ll walk through the process—from filing her claim to collecting damages—share practical insights, and take questions. Send a message to the group for the Zoom information.
  • Worship Q&A: Wondering if churches, temples, synagogues, mosques, or other places of worship are required to allow service animals? According to the ADA’s Frequently Asked Questions About Service Animals, the answer is no—religious institutions and organizations are specifically exempt. However, some state laws may still apply to these organizations.

 

Tips & Tricks

This section features an array of best practices from seasoned guide dog handlers.

  • Laundry help. If you use dryer sheets, try pinning one to a small washcloth with a sturdy safety pin so it doesn’t get lost. Loose sheets can be harmful if your dog eats them, and this simple trick makes them easy to keep track of.
  • Keep recall positive. Avoid calling your dog for things they may not enjoy, like nail trims or ear cleaning. Instead, go to your dog so “come” stays a happy, trusted cue.
  • Hotel hack. Use a lock dot on your hotel room door so you can quickly confirm and praise your guide dog when it finds the correct room. You can also bring a few extras to mark things like the microwave or distinguish between shampoo and conditioner.
  • Make it a habit. Always keep your guide dog’s harness and leash in the same spot so they’re easy to find. A great trick when staying in a hotel is to hang them on the inside door handle.
  • Have a reset routine. If things get a little overwhelming when working your dog, take a moment to step aside and regroup. A short pause can help both you and your dog reconnect and get back on track.
  • Paratransit tip. Cut a yoga mat to fit your guide dog’s size and use it as a non-slip surface. It helps keep your dog from sliding during sharp turns or sudden stops, giving them better traction and stability.

 

Gear, Supplies and Dog Toys

This section features a brief description of items favored by guide dog teams but is not intended as an endorsement of the actual products.

Quick-Dry Disposable Bath Towels

Rainy walk? Muddy paws? No problem! These soft, absorbent disposable towels are perfect for drying off your guide dog after a rainy walk or messy outing. They fold up small enough for a purse or pocket-super handy for life on the go. Comes in a 50-count pack, with each towel measuring 15 inches by 31.5 inches. $25.00.

 

PTGDU Recipe of the Month

This section features a favorite recipe from the guide dog community.

The Seeing Eye

Grilled Brie, Apple and Arugula Sandwich

This quick, easy sandwich combines the peppery kick of arugula with the sweetness of fig preserves, crisp apples, and the creamy, mellow flavor of Brie.

Ingredients

4 slices (1/2-inch-thick) sourdough bread

2 tablespoons butter, softened

4 oz. Brie, sliced thin

3 tablespoons fig preserves

1 Granny Smith apple, cored and sliced thin

1/2 cup loosely packed baby arugula

Directions

Generously spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. To assemble each sandwich, flip one slice of bread over (butter side down) and spread with 1/2 of the fig preserves. Then layer with 1/2 of the apple slices, 1/2 of the Brie, and 1/2 of the arugula. Top with another bread slice (butter side up).

Heat a large heavy skillet or griddle on medium-low and cook sandwiches for about 4 minutes on each side until cheese is melted. Cut the sandwich in half on the diagonal to serve.

 

About Us

This monthly news update is a publication of Pine Tree Guide Dog Users (PTGDU), an independent, nonprofit membership organization serving blind and low vision residents of Maine and beyond. Founded in 1997, PTGDU works to promote the equality and inclusion of guide dog teams in all aspects of life. Visit us on the web or follow us on Facebook.