A few prospective guide dogs spent Sunday afternoon exploring the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad building in Montgomery County, Maryland. The visit was part of a socialization outing intended to expose the dogs to emergency responders, emergency vehicles, and the typical sounds and smells of rescue locations.
The outing, an “outing class,” was sponsored by Guiding Eyes for the Blind, a not-for-profit agency that trains guide dogs for people with visual impairments. The importance of this outing was described by Jeanyne Gembarski, a regional puppy instructor with the agency.
“The noise factor is something really important,” said Gembarski. “These dogs will be hearing sirens all the time throughout their working lives, and we want them to stay calm and focused but not become startled or distracted.”
Each puppy was accompanied by a volunteer “puppy raiser” — individuals who take puppies into their homes for about a year to teach them basic obedience, house manners, and people skills. The puppies spent the time going to visit ambulances, meeting first responders, and being exposed to sirens — all while receiving praise and treats for good behavior.
“We practice positive reinforcement,” Gembarski said. “We reward the dogs for staying calm, being polite, not pulling on the leash, and staying attached to their handler.”
Captain Gregory Mitchell of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad welcomed the group, noting the interactions avoid complications in the future during emergencies.
“If a guide dog has never experienced someone in uniform or near a rescue vehicle, it can serve as a distraction in the real emergency,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell also added that the outing was no interruption of their work — in fact, it was one of the top moments of the day.
“Staff from all over our stations turned out to greet the dogs,” he said.
