On April 30th, 2025, International Guide Dog Day will be commemorated with a significant event organized by Miami-Dade County Animal Services in collaboration with Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. This event aims to raise awareness about the essential role that service animals play in the lives of individuals with vision impairment.
The highlight of the day will be the unveiling of the ‘SUPER EVA’ painting, a tribute to Eva, the beloved retired guide dog of Virginia A. Jacko, President and CEO of Miami Lighthouse. Representatives from both organizations will gather for a press conference at the Miami-Dade County Animal Services.
‘‘SUPER EVA’ serves as a reminder that retired service animals are available for adoption, embodying both the missions of Miami-Dade County Animal Services and Miami Lighthouse,’ stated Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of service animals and providing a loving home for those that have served.
Annette Jose, the Director of Miami-Dade County Animal Services, expressed her excitement about showcasing the artwork at their shelter. ‘It highlights the significant impact that service animals have on the visually impaired community and promotes the idea that many retired service animals, like Eva, deserve a second chance at a loving home.’
Virginia A. Jacko shared her enthusiasm for the partnership with Miami-Dade County Animal Services. ‘The ‘SUPER EVA’ painting was created by participants in our Senior Group Activities Program (SGA),’ she explained. ‘This initiative honors the impact that guide dogs have in the lives of those with visual impairments.’
Miami Lighthouse’s SGA Program, which has received Miami-Dade County Community-Based Organization funding since 2010, aims to assist 150 seniors. The program addresses the distinct challenges faced by seniors grappling with vision loss, empowering them to live independently and enjoy fulfilling lives.
The press conference on April 30th will feature prominent figures, including County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Annette Jose, and Virginia A. Jacko. Additionally, Miami Lighthouse artists will be available for interviews, providing further insight into the creation of ‘SUPER EVA.’
The striking 36” x 36” mixed media artwork vividly captures the essence of Eva, who served faithfully in her role as a guide dog. Once retired, Eva has been adopted into a loving family where she enjoys a cozy home life. The artwork presents Eva in a superhero theme, adorned in a dazzling multi-colored guide harness.
In the vibrant portrait, Eva stands confidently in shades of black and grey, featuring black beaded ears and a pink beaded mouth, along with blue foam glasses. A purple glitter cape flows behind her, set against a backdrop of soft purple and pink hues, complemented by a mirror tile walkway beneath her paws. The artwork also includes a triangle superhero emblem showcasing the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind logo atop her forehead.
This painting not only celebrates Eva’s dedicated service but also honors her legacy as a guide dog whose contributions have significantly impacted Virginia Jacko’s life. Eva was raised and trained at the renowned Guiding Eyes for the Blind in Yorktown Heights, New York.
With the unveiling of ‘SUPER EVA,’ Miami-Dade Animal Services and Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired hope to inspire the community to appreciate the vital roles service animals play and to consider adopting retired service dogs like Eva who deserve a loving home.
image source from：https://communitynewspapers.com/kendallgazette/miami-dade-county-animal-services-in-partnership-with-miami-lighthouse-for-the-blind-raises-awareness-for-service-animals-on-international-guide-dog-day/
