"I’ve heard lots of people tell me how special the relationship between guide dogs and their handlers is, but there’s no way to describe how truly life-changing a guide dog can be. I’m a totally different person now that I get to work with Tara. I have so much more confidence and independence with her by my side. Before having a guide dog, I would avoid going out by myself whenever possible, but the world has opened up to me since I've been matched with Tara. She has such amazing intuition – she seems to know if I’m uncomfortable and 'steps up' her focus even more. We love going for walks and exploring the city together. I can’t wait to find out what adventures we will go on after the pandemic. Tara can be quite serious when she’s working, but she just wants to play and cuddle when the harness comes off. She loves playing tag and tug of war…we’re still working on fetch. At home, If she knows someone isn’t feeling well, she’ll bring them a toy and put it on their lap as if to say, ‘Will this make you feel better?' I can’t put into words the kind of bond we have. Tara feels like an extension of myself, and I am so grateful to everyone who has a hand – or a paw – in breeding, raising, training and supporting guide dogs so they can do the amazing work they do every day.” – Denise