[nagdu] conflicting feelings

[Marion Gwizdala]

R.J.,
    One of the disadvantages of a guide dog is that, unlike a white cane, 
you cannot just put it in the corner and forget about it until the nexst 
time you need it. You need to groom the dog regularly, give it baths (I just 
finished bathing our pups), feed it (we pay about $40/mo. for dog food), 
give it exercise, get its shots, and care for it when it is sick. A dog 
takes a commitment to care for another living being. Not everyone can make 
that commitment and only the individual can make that decision. I hear from 
many families who tell me they want their loved one to get a dog, but the 
blind person doesn't want it. You need to make your own decision and not 
feel pressured into it by someone else who believes it is better for you 
than your cane. In my opinion, neither is "better". Each has its advantages 
and disadvantages and we need to weigh them out when making this decision.
    those who have been on this list for quite some time will confirm my 
constant urging to maintain good cane travel skills, even when the guide dog 
is the preferred tool for mobility. A guide dog is not always the best 
choice for every situation; so, one needs to be flexible in order to be 
fully independent. Dogs can also become ill or the weather may not be 
suitable for them to go out. when the dog is ill or the weather is poor, you 
still have responsibilities to fulfill. This is the time to use the cane, 
rather than the dog.
    The bottom line is that you need to make the decision as to whether or 
not this commitment is for you. no one else can do that for you. We can 
provide information and support, but, when it comes right down to it, you 
are the one who will have the emotional and financial investment to make.

Fraternally yours,
Marion Gwizdala




----- Original Message ----- 
From: "RJ Sandefur" <joltingjacksandefur at gmail.com>
To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" 
<nagdu at nfbnet.org>
Sent: Friday, October 21, 2011 2:16 PM
Subject: [nagdu] conflicting feelings


> I'm having conflicting feelings, wheather or not a guide dog is right for 
> me. On the one hand, a guide dog is a mobility aid, but on the other hand, 
> you have to care for the dog. Some in my family want me to get a dog while 
> others feel I shouldn't. I want to do what is best for me. RJ
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