Dogs Inc. celebrates new Lakewood Ranch visitor center with Oct. 24 grand opening

BRADENTON, Fla. (WWSB) - Meet extraordinary dogs, watch their specialized skills in action and learn how to help change someone’s life.Dogs Inc. is celebrating the grand opening of its new Lakewood Ranch Visitor Center on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.The center is located at 5815 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. in Bradenton, near State Road 70.New Dogs Inc. Chief Executive Officer Veronica Thames and longtime member Marisa Gerlach joined ABC7 News at Noon and the ABC7 1 p.m. streaming newscast to introduce the center and discuss how the community can get involved. They also brought Astro, one of the organization’s ambassador dogs.Dogs Inc. has worked with guide and service dogs for more than 40 years. The organization says the new location will help introduce its mission to more people and connect with potential donors, program applicants and volunteer puppy raisers.During the grand opening, visitors can meet ambassador dogs, speak with a Dogs Inc. graduate about their experience, exp