[nagdu] First-hand Experience

[Debby Phillips]

Hi Dudley, Debby Phillips here.  I've been thinking that one 
thing we need to do, not only where you are, but here in the 
States too, is to do a concerted effort of training with law 
enforcement.  Part of the problem of course, is that they don't, 
in comparison with other calls, get many requests for help with 
these issues.  I have to say that when I was in Jacksonville, 
Florida a few years ago and an incident occurred, the police 
actually looked up the law and did take our part and told the 
owner of the restaurant that he could not keep us from eating 
there with our dogs.  It was sad that it took them a long time to 
figure this out, but they did take the time, for which I was 
glad.  I just haven't figured out quite how to get a hearing with 
the police.  Where I used to work, this police officer came and 
he was all into guns and mace and pepper spray, and explaining 
that if we were fearful for our lives, there would be some 
leniency if we shot someone, especially given that we're blind.  
I was actually appalled.  I asked him if the cops would come if a 
person with a guide dog was having issues, like another dog 
attacking the guide dog.  He said no, that wasn't up to them to 
deal with.  I said sarcastically, Oh well, then ow should just 
get a gun and shoot the other dog and hope I don't hit my own in 
the process." He didn't quite know what to say after that.  What 
a twit.    Peace,    Debby and Neena