These "Golden Girls" are living their best lives in Arizona

You may remember BettyRose, the adorable Lab/Golden Retriever cross named in honor of the late actress Betty White and the character she played on Golden Girls, Rose Nylund.  Betty was a dedicated supporter and dear friend to GDB for more than 30 years. So it only seemed fitting that we would name a spunky golden-colored pup after her.

GDB recently caught up with graduate Ellie Burgess to see how she and BettyRose are doing since they graduated from our guide dog training school in December 2023. These two "Golden Girls" are living large in Tucson, Arizona where summer temperatures can soar to 110 degrees. “We’re doing great and enjoying the air conditioning when we’re not out and about,” says Ellie.

Ellie says BettyRose has been taking snake avoidance training twice a week due to the high number of rattlesnakes near Ellie’s home. “We’re out a lot. We walk a couple of miles a day in the park near where I live and want to make sure we both stay safe.” BettyRose wears special booties to keep her paws safe from the hot cement and gravel. “She helps me go to doctor’s appointments, the bank, supermarket, and church. She gives me confidence and keeps me safe,” says Ellie.   

While Ellie used a white cane for years, she says it was always her dream to have a guide dog. “It’s so much nicer to have a companion with you,” says Ellie. “BettyRose gives me the freedom, mobility, and the confidence to go where I want to go – to live my life.” 

Ellie says BettyRose also makes it easier for her to get to know others in her community. “When you have a dog, people are friendlier and make conversation, so she is a social bridge for me.” And the companionship of a guide dog was crucial for Ellie. “Before I got BettyRose, my husband had passed away and my previous guide dog from another school had died. Life was suddenly very lonely. BettyRose has added so much to my life. She’s brought me so much joy, happiness, and freedom. She gives me a reason to get up in the morning. She gives me a reason to live. She’s just wonderful.”

When the harness comes off, Ellie says BettyRose enjoys playing with a friend’s shepherd husky mix or another friend’s Chihuahua mix. “They run and play with toys together,” says Ellie, adding “It’s the most precious thing. She’s added so much to my life.” 

Ellie says she knows some people don’t want a guide dog because they worry a dog will be a burden. “She’s not a burden. I love caring for BettyRose,” says Ellie. “I brush and comb her fur every night. I clean her teeth and eyes. I clean her coat with baby wipes, and we do a little training to help her remember her verbal cues. Having a guide dog isn’t work, it’s my dream come true.”

Click here to read more about our guide dog program.

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