[nagdu] An update on me.

[Chantel Cuddemi]

I am so sorry girl.

I know how you feel. Motley had these same issues.. 

Hugs.

-----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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