[nagdu] How Guide Dogs Help

[Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)]

The cane.
Wondering why you ask? The dog won't care so you need to use what works for you.
I'll also point out that I have a problem with tying the term "familiar" to using a cane or vision. It implies that if you are not familiar with a place, that you are somehow less competent.
For example, I am familiar with the pool I go to. And, I use my cane because there are chairs and I don't want to trip over them. Also, the space between the two hot tubs (a space you need to walk along to get to the entry point for each hot tub is very narrow. It has a "walk the plank" type feel to it. I use my cane when I do it.

So, I just want to say that you can know a place like the back of your hand, but that doesn't mean you wouldn't want or need to use a cane or dog or your vision.


-----Original Message-----
From: nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of melissa padron
Sent: Saturday, January 28, 2012 7:30 PM
To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
Subject: Re: [nagdu] How Guide Dogs Help

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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