When we last introduced you to Hutch, he was two weeks old and barely bigger than a boot.
A lot changes in four months.
Guide Dogs Queensland has just sent through his first official report card, and it is fair to say little Hutch is making the most of every moment. Here is what he has been up to.
Puppy class, zoomies, and the art of the nap
Hutch recently completed his 16-week puppy class alongside his littermates, and by the sounds of it, he gave it everything he had. The session was packed with new experiences, obstacles, and unfamiliar things to investigate. His handlers describe him as energetic and willing, a young lad who approaches every new challenge with enthusiasm rather than hesitation.
"His confidence is steadily growing as he builds his skills and discovers all the adventures that puppy life has to offer," the Guide Dogs team wrote.
And when the hard work was done? The whole litter celebrated in the way only puppies can: a big run around the yard and a full session of zoomies.
There have been quieter milestones too. The pups are now learning to nap outside their crates during the day, settling on trampoline beds using tethers. It might sound like a small thing, but it is an important step. A guide dog needs to be calm and focused in all kinds of environments, from a busy shopping centre to a GP waiting room. Learning to settle, even when there is plenty happening around you, is a skill that matters.
Ready to head out into the world
The biggest news from this report card is that Hutch has now completed his 16-week vaccinations. That means he is fully vaccinated and cleared to start experiencing the wider world with his first stage puppy raisers.
This is a real milestone. Everything that has happened in these first few months has been about preparation. Now, the real work begins.
Over the coming months, Hutch will accompany his puppy raisers out into everyday life. Cafes, public transport, busy streets, quiet parks. Each outing builds the confidence and composure a guide dog needs to do their job well.
Why we sponsor Hutch
If you missed our original post, the short version is this: we came across the Guide Dogs Queensland stall at the Steadfast Convention earlier this year and felt an immediate connection to the work they do. Before the convention was over, Hutch Underwriting had sponsored a puppy for 12 months. That puppy was named Hutch.
The connection has always felt natural to us. A guide dog's job is to provide clarity, confidence, and steady support in uncertain environments. That is not so different from what we try to do for the brokers we work with and the people we insure.
We are proud to support Guide Dogs Queensland and grateful for every update they share with us along the way.
To follow Hutch's journey from puppy to working guide dog, follow Hutch Underwriting on LinkedIn.
To find out more about Guide Dogs Queensland's corporate sponsorship programme, visit qld.guidedogs.com.au.
Kim Beavis : 4 June 2026, 6:19:39 pm
