New to BVA Happenings in 2024 starting today, the Ambassadog Scoop Series features guide dogs that have become significant in the lives of Association members and their families. The series offers news, tips, and guidance for dog handlers and others who spend time in the company of guide dogs. First up in the series is Donald of Fort Myers, Florida, serving BVA Director of Member Relations Teresa Galgano or, in his case, “My Veteran” or simply Mom.

Donald describes himself thus:

I am a handsome 4-year-old yellow lab and a proud graduate of Southeastern Guide Dog School. My specialty task is finding any coffee shop because they have pup cups. I enjoy long walks on the beach, chewing a bone, staring at squirrels, treats, and long, frequent naps. I love to work anytime and anywhere but a good number of my tasks seem to be performed at VA facilities, airports, supermarkets, and golf courses. I am often in cars to get to and from those destinations. I have also been to two BVA national conventions and hope to see you sometime between July 5 and July 12 at the Association’s 79th at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront in Jacksonville. I know you’d like to meet me there as well. However, as much I’d like to hear your voice and interact with you at the convention, please obtain permission from Mom before you speak with me. My first priority is always to guide her and perform any task she needs from me and, without her blessing, I cannot be distracted from that mission at any time!

If you are a BVA member and interested in having your dog participate in the Ambassadog Scoop Series, please send a message via email with your contact information and a brief introduction of your dog to bva@bva.org.