Welcoming the Pioneer Litter

January 25, 2019

We’re happy to introduce our first NEADS-bred, born, and raised litter of purpose-bred dogs. On November 21, 2018, NEADS breeder dog Acadia gave birth to 10 healthy puppies.

For the first eight weeks, nursery staff members worked hard to lay the foundation for Service Dog work through a comprehensive early socialization program. This included puppy massages, crate exercises, and exposure to a variety of objects and people, sounds, smells, and plenty of cuddles and kisses.

All 10 puppies were named for “Pioneers,” representing the little pioneers these puppies are for our breeding program. The puppies were cared for during whelping (birth) and the first 8 weeks of their lives by NEADS staff. Now they’re ready for the next step in their path to becoming Service Dogs. Five of these pups will head to organizations who are members of our breeding co-op (ABC Breeding Cooperative), while five will enter the NEADS program.

Many thanks to Fred Levy for working with us to capture these fantastic photos!

: Carson was named for Rachel Carson, one of the first people to launch the environmental movement with her book Silent Spring. Carson will be joining the NEADS program.

: Dottie was named for Dottie Hinson, one of the first women to join All American Girls’ Baseball League (A League of Their Own). Dottie is heading to Warrior Canine Connection.

: Elena was named for Elena Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia, the first woman to receive a degree from a university. Elena will be joining the NEADS program.

: Laika was named for the dog Laika, who was the first animal to orbit the Earth. Laika is heading to Canine Partners for Life.

: Murray was named for Pam Murray, the first NEADS breeder caretaker. Murray will be joining the NEADS program.

: Basie was named for Count Basie, an African American jazz pianist who was the first African American to win a Grammy. Basie is heading to Prison Pet Partnership.

: Switzer was named for Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon. Switzer will be joining the NEADS program.

: Taylor was named for John Baxter Taylor Jr., first American to win Olympic gold in a track & field event. Taylor is heading to Southeastern Guide Dogs.