Newton and his handler Kristi pose with Erin Nemivant and Emmie Starchvick after Newton's graduation ceremony.

Emmie Starchvick and Erin Nemivant, both fourth-year veterinary students at the Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine co-raised Newton, a black Labrador puppy, for Guide Dogs for the Blind during their second years. 

During their time with Newton, they taught him good basic manners and provided socialization opportunities. He was a frequent site around the college and spent his time patiently in a crate in the Dean's Office while Starchvick and Nemivant were in laboratory and clinical settings. After his year with Starchvick and Nemivant, Newton embarked on his formal training to become a guide dog at a GDB campus where he graduated in November.

"Newton graduated as a working guide dog for an amazing woman in Texas! We spent the best day with Newton and his new handler, Kristi, at their graduation ceremony. We all shared stories and photos, laughs and tears, and got to hear about what their life will be like together. We cannot picture a more perfect match for Newton, they were made for each other and Guide Dogs for the Blind did an amazing job matching them together," said Starchvick and Nemivant via email.

"Newton is an incredibly special dog, a once in a lifetime dog and we think anyone who has met him would say the same thing. We are so grateful we got to spend a year of our life with him and help him with his bigger purpose. Saying goodbye was bittersweet as we love Newton and will miss him so much, but we know he is exactly where he needs to be. Go move mountains our sweet boy, we love you forever!"

Read the previous Q&A about Newton's time with Starchvick and Nemivant.