[nagdu] Introduction Re: Canes With Dogs

[Criminal Justice Major Extraordinaire]

hi, Cindy, Dan and all,
I think what works for each individual may be best: cane or dog.
I eventually chose the guide dog route more due to the carple tunnel in both 
hands and I also feel more comfortable with having a dog with me.
I'll admit that Odie can't physically talk, he does respond with the 
movement of his body language.
People may think I'm crazy when I talk to him, but I've discovered over the 
years of us being together that communicating with me directly really 
helpped with our team partnership.
I would always tell Odie where we were going and what plans were.
I figure that for some people who would rather just stick with the cane, 
it's not about wanting to abandon the responsibility of caring for a dog: 
but rather, not wanting to deal with the cost and time management as with 
some dog breeds, maintenance can get extremely high and pricy.
The individuals who have told me that though, were willing to say that they 
definitely like being around friends and dogs though.
Despite what all Odie went through in the very beginning when I got him, I 
wasn't about to give up on him and didn't plan on it either.
The expense was due to him having a damaged trachea and a sensitive stomach 
where he would vomit continuously at times.
It took a while for me to find the right diet for him and to explore dog 
foods that his trachea and stomach could handle.
I eventually learned that he  tolerates Gormet style foods the best.
Since he's been on Beneful Healthy Radiance and Purina veternarian 
prescribed Overweight Management, we haven't had to do continuous trips to 
the vet and I also give him a Pepcid AC once a day on a daily basis.
That definitely helps tone down the unwanted extra gas in his tummy.
Of course, Odie is a great companion and always has been even back when he 
did work.
I had bonbed with all of my guides, but I regret saying this that Odie and I 
have a much, powerful and stronger bond than I did with Orleans and Freedom.
I guess it's because of how much Odie and I went through life emotionally 
and having to fight for one another during times of sickness and illness.
Still, he's fun to be around and a good motivator.
*Smile*
Bibi and Odie
who are ready for the disgusting
90's and 100's to leave
and not come back for a long time