[nagdu] Running

[Julie J.]

I wrote this to another list recently, but I think it's the sort of info 
you are looking for.  so I cut and pasted it below.
***
I used to run with my guide dog.   Since I broke my foot, running is 
pretty much a thing of the past for me. *smile*  Anyway here are some 
things that
I  found important.

Find a smooth, flat, no obstacle, no sharp turns place to run.  There 
might be a track you can use.  Here we have paved hike and bike trails 
that worked
very well for me.

When you are moving at the faster pace you will have less time to react 
to the movements of your guide.  This is why a smooth, no obstacle, no 
sharp turns
place to run is absolutely essential. Be sure to not grip the handle too 
tightly which could cause a stumble if he moves to suddenly.

Be sure your guide, as well as yourself, are up for running.  Just like 
with people a dog shouldn't be expected to go from only walking for 
exercise to
running a few miles overnight.  You'll need to work up to it.  A 
consultation with your vet wouldn't hurt to make sure your guide is in 
good health for
running.

Now this next part is difficult to explain and most likely is going to 
involve some trial and error to get it right.  Depending on the natural 
pace of
your dog and his height he may change his gait into a sort of lope.  It 
is really hard to follow a guide when they do this.  It feels like the 
dog is lunging
forward and then falling back.  I find the best combination is when I'm 
at a jog and my guide was at a very fast walk or maybe you'd call it a 
trot.  You'll
most certainly feel the difference as his gait changes as you go faster.

Take it slow so you are both comfortable, confident with your movements 
and safe.  Best of luck!
Julie

On 2/8/2012 12:57 PM, Tina Thomas wrote:
> Hey folks, Has anyone had experience with running a 5K and or a half
> marathon using a guide dog as a partner? Any tips and or and.
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/julielj%40neb.rr.com
>