Southeastern Guide Dogs create a paws-itive impact

Southeastern Guide Dogs has trained more than 2,800 guide-dog teams since its establishment in 1982. Although the nonprofit is best known for its guide dogs — it currently has more than 410 active guide-dog partnerships — some puppies work best in alternative careers, such as therapy dogs, ambassador dogs or public service dogs.

Careers are chosen for dogs based upon a physical and behavioral analysis. The Observer meets the hardworking golden retrievers and Labradors of the nonprofit who lead the way in their respective canine careers.