[nagdu] Don't pretend was process of getting a guide dog from leader dog

[Tracy Carcione]

Debby's advice is good.  I'd add, don't try to walk faster than you're
really comfortable doing.  I know of 2 people who did that, trying to
impress the trainer, I guess, and got a dog, only to have a dog change 3
or 4 days later, when it became clear that trying to keep up with a fast
or hard-pulling dog was physically more than they could handle.  If you're
naturally a fast walker, walk fast.  If you like to stroll, then stroll. 
Just be yourself; you don't need to impress anyone. Trying to work a dog
with the wrong pace is no fun at all.
Tracy


> I am glad that I have graduated from my school and have been
> getting dogs from there for a long time.  Life changes, and
> sometimes life changes in a matter of weeks.  I am working now,
> but in the fall sometime, I will be laid off.  When that happens,
> Nova and I will have a totally different routine.  Perhaps one
> day we will walk in the morning, sometimes in the afternoon.  So
> much will depend on what's happening each day, and the weather,
> and other things.  I think Nova can handle the varied routine,
> but I know that there are other dogs that would be driven crazy
> by that.  So I think 1.  schools need to be a little less rigid,
> and 2.  people need to be honest about what they will be doing
> and all.  If you don't do a lot of "big city" stuff, like subways
> and all, then don't pretend you do.  You'll get the wrong dog,
> and both of you will be miserable.  Same thing: don't pretend
> you're a great hiker and love the country if you can't stand it.
> I know that people have done that.  The schools aren't impressed,
> and they'd rather you be honest then pretend you're "super
> blind".  Okay, I'm off my soapbox now.  (Grin).    Debby
>
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