Seventh New York Islanders’ Puppy With a Purpose® Will Be Named “Bailey”

The Guide Dog Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides specially trained guide dogs to individuals who are blind or have low vision, is celebrating the newest addition to its longstanding partnership with the New York Islanders. The team's seventh Puppy with a Purpose® has officially been named Bailey, in honor of longtime Islanders forward Josh Bailey. The name was selected through a fan vote, continuing a tradition that brings Islanders fans together in support of the Guide Dog Foundation’s mission.

Bailey, a 14-week-old female black Labrador retriever, will spend the next 14 to 18 months learning basic obedience and socialization skills with the help of her volunteer puppy raiser. Throughout her journey, Bailey will make appearances at Islanders games and community events, gaining exposure to a variety of environments and experiences that will help prepare her for a future as a guide dog. Once she completes this stage of her development, Bailey will return to the Guide Dog Foundation’s headquarters in Smithtown, NY, to begin formal training in preparation for being matched with an individual who is blind or has low vision.

“The Islanders have been tremendous partners in helping us share the impact that guide and service dogs can have on people’s lives,” said John Miller, president and CEO of the Guide Dog Foundation. “From the fans who help name each puppy to the volunteers who raise them, this program brings our mission to a wider audience. We’re excited to welcome Bailey and look forward to following her progress, while Marty takes the next steps in his formal training.”

To date, the team has helped raise three guide dogs for individuals who are blind or have low vision, as well as three service dogs for veterans and first responders with disabilities. Fans can follow the pup’s journey via the @nyislespup social media accounts on Instagram to stay up to date on his training and local appearances. For more on the Guide Dog Foundation and ways to get involved, visit GuideDog.org.

Josh Bailey spent 15 seasons with the Islanders and played in more than 1,000 games with the team.