[nagdu] being reported to your school

[Julie J]

As an owner trainer I am always fascinated by the phenomena of being 
reported or reporting to the schools various perceived indiscretions of 
guide dog use and abuse.  Certainly I agree that there are horrible cases of 
abuse out there, but what I hear about 99% of the time are cases that 
involve lack of facts, lack of knowledge of guide dogs, revenge or just 
plain medaling.

I honestly do not understand the whole concept of reports to the school. 
Why is that people will report to the school but rarely to local police or 
animal enforcement agencies?  Why is it that people will rarely just go 
directly to the blind guide dog handler and ask what's going on?

I truly believe that if we want change to occur at the guide dog programs it 
has to begin with us.  I think calling the programs and making reports, even 
legitimate ones, perpetuates the programs custodial attitudes.  Why not 
instead work with local law enforcement to address the situation?  Why not 
instead directly confront the person about their behavior with their guide 
dog?  Instead of offering judgment why not try some attempt at 
understanding?

If I am missing something obvious here, please tell me.  I really would like 
to understand this.

Julie