Humans with CNIB Guide Dogs: Rylan & Belle

“My guide dog, Belle, and I are a dynamic duo who love going to Tim Hortons and hockey games! We were matched in October 2021, and I was overwhelmed with excitement. Meeting Belle, a yellow Labrador retriever, was the icing on the cake. We are well-suited for each other because she is a bit more introverted like me and loves our one-on-one cuddles. She has also come to learn that I struggle going up stairs either at home or when I’m out. Without me having to give additional training, she has learned to walk in front of me and lets me put my hand on her back so I can go up the stairs safely. She even does this when we’re at home and she doesn’t have her harness on! Belle has made me feel a lot more comfortable going into crowded, public areas, as she navigates me around people that I wouldn’t see or detect with my cane. In areas where I may have bumped into people or objects before, I am now able to navigate easier and avoid obstacles, thanks to Belle.” – Rylan