Honoring Our Retired Breeder Dogs
Duncan, a beloved yellow Labrador, a best friend
From the moment Barbara and Dick Kattman met Duncan, a yellow Labrador breeder dog for Guide Dogs, they both knew their lives were changed forever. It was March 1991, and Duncan, with his beautiful golden coloring and white streak down his shoulders, easily became the center of attraction wherever the Kattmans went, not only for his beauty, but for his kind and gentle manner. In July of 1994, Duncan began having difficulty swallowing and eating and was diagnosed with megaesophagus (not allowing Duncan to eat/drink normally), which forced him into retirement from the Guide Dog breeding program. Through the determination and dedication of the Kattmans along with the Guide Dogs' veterinary staff, Duncan, considered to be a medical miracle, continued to live a happy and healthy life for the next eight years until his passing on August 2, 2002 at the age of thirteen.
In order that future retired breeder dogs can receive financial help to meet their medical needs, Barbara and Dick Kattman have generously founded the Duncan Kattman Fund.
A note from Duncan's vet at Guide Dogs for the Blind
"Out of all the dogs I have worked with over the years, Duncan was definitely one of the most special. Even when Duncan's health was failing, his spirit never failed. It was obvious the Kattmans surrounded Duncan with continuous love which he passed on to others. I want to personally thank the Kattmans for beginning this fund in honor of my friend, Duncan."
— Craig Dietrich, DVM, Guide Dogs for the Blind (Duncan's doctor and friend)
What does my contribution go toward?
Your gift to The Duncan Kattman Fund, at the discretion of the Veterinary Department at Guide Dogs for the Blind, will go toward financial assistance for veterinary care expenses of retired Guide Dog breeding stock dogs.
What are the benefits of donating to the Duncan Kattman Fund?
Contributions of any amount are welcome to the fund; however, donors of $1,000 or more will be recognized as major contributors with the following benefits:
- Listing on a special plaque displayed in Guide Dogs' Vet Clinic
- Listing in our annual donor Honor Roll listing in the Year in Review edition of Guide Dog News
- Membership in the Norah Hamilton Straus Donors' Circle
How do I donate toward The Duncan Kattman Fund?
Simply click to the Duncan Kattman Fund donation form and submit your donation today! If you prefer to make your donation by mail, please send to:
Development Department, Guide Dogs for the Blind
P.O. Box 3950, San Rafael, CA 94912-3950.
Be sure to include "Duncan Kattman Fund" in the memo line of your check. We will be in touch with you to acknowledge your generosity. Donations may also be paid by credit card or with a transfer of securities; call our Development Department at 800-295-4050 for details.
Learn More:
Read more about our Breeding Program
Become a volunteer Breeding Stock Custodian
