Islanders to Raise Fifth Puppy in Partnership with the Guide Dog Foundation

There’s a new dog in town!

The New York Islanders and the Guide Dog Foundation are teaming up to raise a fifth pup, as part of their Puppy with a Purpose Program.

The 11-week-old yellow lab puppy will embark on a 14–18-month training program before being matched with someone who is blind or has low vision. The total cost to breed, raise,train and placeone assistance dog costs over $50,000, but all services are at no cost to the individual.

Islanders fans will have the chance to pick out a name for the adorable little lab. Voting opens on Friday, Oct. 4 and closes on Oct. 8, as the new name will be unleashed during the Isles home opener at UBS Arena on Oct. 10 vs Utah.

The newest Puppy with a Purpose follows a furry lineage of previous Isles pups Radar, Tori, Monte and Jethro, all doggos who have been or are currently in training.

Jethro, the most recent Puppy with a Purpose with the Foundation’s sister organization America’s VetDogs, was introduced to Isles Nation in the fall of 2023, began formal training on Oct. 1 to become a service dog for a veteran or first responder with disabilities. Jethro will still make several appearances throughout the season, utilizing UBS Arena as a training site with his certified Service Dog Instructor before being matched with his veteran or first responder in the Spring.

Keep an eye out for the newest Islanders Puppy with a Purpose at Islanders games and events this season. More information about the team’s puppy calendar will be released at a later date.