SCSU sophomore creates club to help train guide dogs NBC Connecticut [Video]

A sophomore student at Southern Connecticut State University is giving back this holiday season in a unique way.

Ella Bernegger started Guiding Eyes Puppy Raising at SCSU to bring people together while addressing the demand for service dogs.

“There are visually impaired and blind people waiting for these dogs for years,” Bernegger said.

She said the inspiration came after her family dog Trent passed away.

K9 Trent led a successful career in narcotics detection before he retired and when he passed away, she thought the club could serve as a sort of tribute to Trent.

“I recognize what an amazing opportunity this is and I think it could bring so many people together,” Bernegger said.

Bernegger has been training 10-month-old Justice since May.

“Every two weeks, we go and we train with Guiding Eyes, with a class of people and other dogs and so we learn new skills each week,” Bernegger said.

She said the club gives each person something different. Some people simply enjoy …