[nagdu] Re Guide Dog Forced to Ride in Trunk

[Bernadetta Pracon]

Beth,
Interesting and well written post.
I think I understandwhere your coming from, but with all due respect, 
you might be missing the point slightly. I am all for advocating for 
victims of sexual assault; Those people are victims, always. I 
understand that. Comparing this situation to being raped though, is 
like comparing apples to grapes here. I'm willing to be compassionate 
to the victim, and not to judge him or her, but I don't see the guide 
dog handler as being the victim as much as her dog was. Just because he 
isn't human doesn't deny him rights or concern. This would be a 
national outrage if little Alberto was a child, not a black lab. But 
let's remember that this dog may have become traumatized to the point 
where he may not be a full-functioning guide anymore. Also,his handler 
had a choice; If we want to refer back to the case of a rape victim, if 
I recall correctly, they never have a choice. There are several options 
I could think of off the top of my head, simple options I might 
add,that she could have gone through first. Yes, she may have been 
distraught, stressed out, strapped on time--but why endanger a service 
animal? They're being forced to partake in sexual activity. This woman 
was given an ultimatum, yes, but the driver didn't shove her dog in the 
trunk of his car. She "reluctantly agreed", to quote the article. 
Therefore, these are two very different kinds of circumstances.
Respectfully submitted,

Bernadetta

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