[nagdu] An update on me.

[Deanna Lewis]

Hi all,
I have some sade news to share.
I am retiring my guide dog, Pascal in a few months. Over the past year or so he has become frightened of things that never used to bother him. Things like loud noises, heavy traffic, flying, thunderstorms, etc. When he gets upset he has these anxiety attacks, where he will either shut down completely, or move very quickly to try to run away from whatever is bothering him. During these, he will also cry out with a whine so loud it's like a scream. Sometimes, when the attacks occur, I can't tell what triggers them. A few days ago, we were waiting at a bus stop and he had one. At first, these things would occur sporadically, but within the last few months, his fears and anxiety issues have increased. I've worked with several trainers and called the school many times. At first his whining appeared to be behavioral, but then it later became a fear response. I've been working him on light duty (no more than a mile a day) and this has helped. I will continue to work him on light duty until he officially retires.
Honestly, I've been debating retirement for over a year, but I finally filled out the application in June. It's been a roller coaster of emotions, but I finally made the right decision. I applied to Guide Dogs for the Blind and have been accepted for training. Pascal is from Guide Dogs for the Blind as well. I am not sure when my class date will be yet, but hoping before the end of the year, so I can get the new dog settled in before winter really hits. If I do go before the end of the year, I will be going to the Oregon campus, which I hear is very beautiful.
Just wanted to update y'all, and I will keep you posted.

Deanna and soon to be retired, Pascal