Member Book Release: Life With Jefferson

AUDIO VERSION

There’s something special about the bond between a guide dog and the

person they support. It’s built on trust, consistency, and a deep

understanding that grows over time. For many people who are blind or

deafblind, a guide dog is more than mobility support—it’s a steady

companion that helps make daily life safer and more independent.

That connection is at the heart of Life With Jefferson, co-authored by AEBC

member Penny LeClair. Penny’s story offers a close look at what it means

to find the right match in a guide dog. It also reminds us that behind every

successful partnership is a careful process that begins long before a

handler ever holds the harness.

Guide dogs are not simply trained—they are selected, raised, and matched

with great care. From early puppyhood, potential guide dogs are assessed

for temperament, health, and focus. Not every dog makes the cut. Those

that do go on to months of structured training, learning how to navigate

obstacles, stop at curbs, and respond to commands while also making

independent decisions when needed. One of the most important skills is

“intelligent disobedience”—when a dog chooses to ignore a command to

keep their handler safe.

Matching a dog with a handler is just as thoughtful. Trainers look at walking

pace, lifestyle, environment, and personality. A busy city route calls for a

different kind of dog than a quieter rural setting. For someone who is

deafblind, like Penny, those considerations can be even more specific.

When the match is right, the result is a partnership that feels natural,

steady, and dependable.

Through heartfelt and often humorous stories, readers come to know

Jefferson’s personality, devotion, and deep desire to communicate and

protect. As he aged, his wisdom grew, and his dedication never wavered.

This moving nonfiction account offers an intimate look into the bond

between a guide dog and the humans who depend on him—a story of trust,

love, and partnership that will stay with you long after the final page.

The book is available on Amazon, in Kindle, Audiobook, or Paper Back

format.

Here is the publisher description: “Life With Jefferson tells the true story of

the remarkable partnership between Jefferson and Penny Leclair, a

deafblind woman whose independence depended on finding the right guide

dog. After two years of searching, Jefferson was chosen for his unique

intelligence, sensitivity, and ability to meet Penny’s specific needs. His

training continued with special considerations that shaped him into more

than a working dog—he became a trusted partner and beloved family

member.”

In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing another story from within our

community. AEBC member Louise Johnson was recently matched with her

new guide dog, and her experience offers a fresh look at the excitement,

adjustment, and learning that come with a new partnership. It’s a journey

many will recognize—and one worth following.