[nagdu] An update on me.

[margo and isis]

Oh, Deanna, this is sad but sounds like a good decision.  The very best to
you.

Hugs, margo and Isis

-----Original Message-----
From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Deanna Lewis via
nagdu
Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2014 9:01 AM
To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
(nagdu at nfbnet.org)
Subject: [nagdu] An update on me.

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




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