Training guide dogs for the blind can be both heartbreaking and fulfilling. Savannah Ames took on the task of training a yellow Labrador named Bristol. She worked with Bristol for approximately 16 months, focusing on basic obedience training to help her acclimate to people, other animals, and various situations. When Bristol was ready, she graduated to harness training, and her time with Savannah came to an end. That is what led to the guide dog reunion, but first, a bit more backstory.
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Bristol attended high school with Savannah, including the Homecoming dance. The inseparable pair went hiking together, watched Dodgers games, and Savannah did dance competitions. Over the 16 months of initial guide dog training, trainers develop a close bond with their dogs. They also know they have to let them go. When Bristol was ready for harness training, she and Savannah parted ways. While parting was sad, Savannah knew Bristol was going to become a guide dog. That’s what they worked so hard for.
How the Guide Dog Reunion Came About
Time passed. Life went on. Then one day, Savannah’s dad was picking her up, and he had a surprise in the back seat. As Savannah walked up to the vehicle, she stopped and asked, “Is that what I think it is?” She ran to open the back door, crying openly. Bristol jumped out, and the guide dog reunion was in full swing. Full swing of Bristol’s tail, that is. The dog was as happy to see Savannah as Savannah was to see Bristol.
The reason Bristol went back to Savannah is that they discovered a small amount of hip dysplasia. While it is unlikely to cause problems for Bristol as a pet, it is a disqualifier for a guide dog. When a dog is removed from the program, the trainer has the option to take the dog back, or it will be offered for adoption. In this case, Savannah was overjoyed to have Bristol back.
On April 5, 2025, Bristol celebrated her ninth birthday. She is happy and healthy, living the good life after the reunion between the guide dog and the trainer. Bristol has other dog buddies, several resident cats, and a pasture full of miniature donkeys to chase. The family leases the mini donkeys for special events, photo shoots, and even weddings.
Savannah and her family have trained around ten guide dogs for the blind. Bristol was the second one to return. It is rare for a dog to be removed from the program. Training can be both bittersweet and rewarding. However, in instances where a guide dog reunion occurs, it can have a happy ending.
Please share if you thought this guide dog reunion was adorable.
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