Going once, going twice…The Seeing Eye auction

Hava Hegenbarth is no stranger to this space. Her first appearance was a poignant post about her assignment at the U.S. Embassy in Rwanda. Her second was about her experiences raising a puppy named Spinner for Leader Dogs in Rochester, Michigan. Hava also helps out with the Seeing Eye’s annual online auction — here she is again to tell you about it.

One of Hava’s harnessed pups. You know you want one.

It’s quickly approaching!  My favorite event of the year – the Seeing Eye’s annual on-line auction. Why you may ask, do I get such a charge out of this?

It was at their first annual that I won an item listed as “Spend a day with Seeing Eye instructors.” That day we loaded up some dogs and headed to New York City. There I watched the instructors train the dogs. It was fascinating. After an hour or so, they announced it was my turn. They blindfolded me and handed me a harness. They led me to a dog. That patient dog stood while I clumsily attempted to put his harness on him. I finally got it right and stood up.  I was then told to command the dog forward.

I was terrified! Being blind felt so claustrophobic. The instructors understood. They were kind and encouraging but insistent.

“Just follow your dog.” They told me.

I took a step forward. It was alright.  Nothing bad happened to me. Another step and then another.  Soon I was confidently walking around New York as if had all my life.  What a thrilling experience!

Grateful, I have since then, tried to contribute items to the auction because I really believe in and support what the Seeing Eye does. What I mainly contribute are plush toy dogs which I’ve fit with hand-made leather guide harnesses. These have proved to be immensely popular with bidders.

At first I knew nothing of working with leather and my first harness attempts were somewhat crude.  I studied the craft and acquired some proper tools. Last year I went out to Massachusetts to work with the people who make harnesses for the Seeing Eye. They put me to work making real harnesses. I learned a great deal from them. My latest works are considerably improved. They do look authentic, but I always make them too small to fit a real dog as I do not want to make a harness that could be misused. In any case the harness handles are only leather-covered wire which would never stand up to actual use.

If you think you’d like to own one of these plush harnessed dogs or any of hundreds of other exciting items (including dinner for 4 with Betty White, or Spend a Day with Seeing Eye Instructors) check out the Seeing Eye’s 5th annual on-line auction.  The auction begins April 22 this year and you can find a link to it as well as instructions for registering to bid at the Seeing Eye’s website: www.seeingeye.org. They are also still accepting donations for their auction if you feel inclined to give.

Happy bidding and hope that you win!