March 14, 2025
If you know Bindery Associate Deanna Lewis, chances are you’ve heard about or met Buttercup, too!
Born legally blind, Lewis has experienced gradual vision loss over the years. However, for the past 15 years, she’s found comfort and independence through the companionship of four incredible guide dogs.
Labrador retrievers Pascal and Mambo played pivotal roles in helping Lewis navigate the world with confidence. Their bond was instant, a “wonderful feeling” that still resonates with her today
Now, Lewis relies on Martin for support, but she’s also been training Buttercup — the first puppy she’s raised and trained as a guide dog. Buttercup celebrated her first birthday on Sunday, March 16, and is just a few weeks away from advancing to Leader Dogs for the Blind in Rochester Hills, Michigan, where she can become an officially certified guide dog.
“I have enjoyed this experience so much,” Lewis said. “Sometimes we don’t really appreciate how hard raising a puppy is. It’s been so rewarding, and I plan on raising again in the future.”
Over the past several months, Lewis has been training Buttercup, starting with basic commands and obedience before progressing to guide dog-specific skills. Buttercup now confidently helps Lewis navigate daily life — leading her safely onto buses, across streets, in and out of buildings, and up and down stairs.
Buttercup has also become a familiar face around Clovernook Center’s office, where our staff has had the privilege of witnessing her progress firsthand.
“We will all miss the little diva dog,” Lewis said. “But my co-workers will eventually be meeting my next future Leader Dog puppy — hopefully, sooner rather than later.”
Next, Buttercup will spend four months with Leader Dogs for the Blind instructors, working toward official certification as a guide dog. Stay tuned for final updates of her training journey on our social media channels.
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