BY MIKE KUCHINSKY
Los Alamos
What is warm, golden brown, sweet, and named Eggo? If you are thinking a waffle, you would be mistaken, in this instance Eggo is a Golden Retriever guide dog. I first met Eggo two months ago on my third day as a student at Guide Dogs of America/Tender Loving Canines (GDA/TLC).
We were in the 432nd class of GDA. From the day we met, through the three-week training course, and through today, Eggo has been with me 24/7, and has changed my life.
But let me set the stage and share my backstory. My name is Mike, I worked at Los Alamos National Lab for over 30 years and retired just over a year ago. I have a genetic condition that has slowly robbed me of my eyesight. Over the years, you might have seen me crossing Omega Bridge on my way to work using a cane. Unfortunately, a cane is no longer sufficient to safely maneuver independently around town, and so with the help of a friend, I went through the process to apply to GDA for a fully trained guide dog. Just before Christmas 2024, I received the great news that I had been accepted into the program.
In February 2025, GDA/TLC flew me to their campus in Sylmar California to begin their extensive three- week training program. I had to be trained as much as my new companion Eggo. We began by learning the commands for working in harness and on leash. We learned how to find and safely navigate curbs, stairs, and doors. We moved through airport security, entering and exiting elevators, and getting into and out of busses and passenger vehicles. Over this time we learned many skills together. The training sessions were long and exhausting, but necessary to learn and build a bond between us.
Eggo safely guides me through Los Alamos. You may see me in town with Eggo, holding his
harness handle and leash. With the aid of these I can sense when Eggo is looking forward, left, or right, or when he is guiding me around an obstacle. He will identify objects blocking the sidewalks such as bushes and low hanging branches, trash cans, and cars on the sidewalk. Through the harness I can tell when he is becoming distracted, especially when other dogs are around. You may hear me say “Eggo, Hop-Up”, a technique I was taught to bring him back to attention.
Using the training techniques I learned from the instructors at GDA/TLC, I have taught Eggo to “Find the pole” that has the crosswalk request buttons at intersections like Diamond Drive and Canyon Road.
These buttons can be far away from the intersection corners, which makes them hard to find. Having Eggo’s assistance in helping me navigate the streets of Los Alamos has allowed me to continue to live happily and independently.
However, Eggo is not all work, out of his harness he is a friendly and energetic dog, a puppy! He loves playing tug and wrestling with me, chewing on his favorite nylon bone, and doing zoomies with my friend’s dogs at the dog park. He also likes quiet time snuggling next to me listening to music, or a talking book.
If you are visually impaired like me, and enjoy the company of dogs, I encourage you to research guide dog organizations and apply to one that best fits your needs and lifestyle. You’ll gain a fantastic partner and companion.
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