The recently formed Guiding Eyes Puppy Raising Club is doing more than just training service dogs; it is building a community of service-minded students eager to make a difference.
Ella Bernegger, a sophomore English major, was inspired to start the club by her personal connection with a dog named, Trent. The dog profoundly impacted her life and ignited her passion for raising service dogs.
Trent, a former narcotics detection dog, was raised in the Guiding Eyes program, but due to his heightened interest in scents, was not suited to be a guide dog.
“Trent had an infectiously happy energy that lightened even the heaviest of moods,” Bernegger says. “I was lucky to witness a few of the lives he changed, and I decided that if I could raise a dog that could change someone’s life, I should.”
Bernegger observed how powerful the Guiding Eyes program was firsthand, through her mother’s work with Trent.
“I thought that the Guiding Eyes’ mission would resonate with the Southern community since our school is known for its mission to engage in service for the public good,” Bernegger says.
Starting the club, however, came with its challenges. In addition to the logistical hurdles of establishing a new club on campus, Bernegger faced the task of advocating for a change to the CSCU’s Animals on Campus policy.
“Creating this club involved a lot of [struggles], but I was determined to proceed because I believe that this club not only enhances our status as a service-driven community, but has the potential to change people’s lives,” she says.
The club quickly gained traction, attracting 115 members in its inaugural year. Bernegger attributes much of the interest to the club’s mascot, Justice, a lovable service dog in training.
“The biggest attraction is [the dog] Justice himself. The Southern community already loves K9s Jules and Brody, and there was great excitement around the opportunity to be involved in something like this,” Bernegger says.
However, she admits that keeping members engaged in the club’s long-term mission remains an ongoing challenge.
For those who decide to commit to the cause, the training process is a comprehensive one. Aspiring raisers and sitters must attend a series of online sessions, complete a self-study and pass a quiz before they are officially approved to raise or care for a service dog.
This process is not for the faint of heart; it requires dedication and responsibility.
“They need to be committed mentally and financially to take on the responsibility,” says Bernegger. “Mentally, the student must understand that these dogs are being raised for a higher purpose.”
Beyond training service dogs, the club also provides opportunities for students to learn life skills like patience, time management and communication.
For Bernegger, working with Justice has deepened her sense of resilience and adaptability, traits that have become essential in both his personal and academic life.
“I’ve developed a greater sense of patience, time management and communication throughout my time with Justice,” Bernegger says.
Perhaps the most rewarding part of this endeavor is watching the growth of the club and its impact on both the students and the dogs.
Through teamwork and collaboration, the club is fostering a sense of community while making a tangible difference in the lives of those who will one day benefit from the service dogs raised by its members.
“The most rewarding part of watching the club grow has been seeing the direct impact we’re making, not just on the puppies we’re raising, but also on the people involved in the process,” Dakota Willette, a sophomore theatre major and secretary of the Guiding Eyes Puppy Raising Club, says.
Willette says that watching these dogs progress from playful, energetic puppies to well-trained service animals has been incredible, knowing that one day they’ll completely change someone’s life at the university.
Looking ahead, Bernegger is hoping to see the continued growth of the club. With more puppies on the way and increased collaboration with other organizations, Bernegger believes that the Guiding Eyes Puppy Raising Club will become an integral part of the campus.
“I’m excited to expand our club and its mission through collaboration, more learning opportunities, and the introduction of new pups on campus,” Bernegger says.
Willette adds that she hopes the club will have a life-changing impact on those who receive help from these service dogs, providing them with greater independence, confidence and companionship.
“These dogs aren’t just pets; they’re highly trained assistants that help individuals with disabilities navigate daily life more safely and efficiently. By raising and training these puppies, we’re not just teaching them basic obedience; we’re laying the foundation for their future roles as guides, medical alert dogs or mobility assistants,” Willette says.
The impact of this initiative reaches far beyond the campus, as the club’s efforts help meet the ever-growing demand for guide dogs.
By fostering a culture of service and empathy, the Guiding Eyes Puppy Raising Club is teaching students valuable lessons about community, commitment and the power of giving back.
