[nagdu] How Guide Dogs Help

[melissa padron]

Just a general question...
When not using your guide dog for some reason (such as the dog not feeling well) do you rely on a cane to get you somewhere or use whatever vision you have? 

Melissa 


________________________________
 From: Julie J. <julielj at neb.rr.com>
To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org> 
Sent: Saturday, January 28, 2012 5:49 PM
Subject: Re: [nagdu] How Guide Dogs Help
 
Definitely yes.  Different guides have varying strengths and weaknesses.  My first guide was an overhanging obstacle genius.  Belle was good at being content with doing the same route repeatedly.  Monty is good at  remembering where we've been and what is probable that we'll be doing next and making suggestions.

Each of them also had things that weren't so appreciated.  Monty doesn't like to follow other people.  He's also impatient when we have to be in long meetings or waiting for whatever reason.

I think working with a guide dog is a two way street though.  I'm not even close to perfect.  I'm sure it's confusing when I give a hand gesture for turning right and I say left.   I insist on some things in a guide, excellent house manners, good obstacle work, a strong sense of self, internal motivation to work,  and some other things that are important to me.  Some things just aren't that important to me or don't bother me.  I don't mind  a bit of barking at home.  I am okay with Monty's parallel routs instead of a true follow.

So yes, when we talk about what guide dogs can do, it's more of a general thing.  Each individual dog may not excel in each of these areas.

Julie


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