[NAGDU] dogs and convention

[Julie McGinnity]

Hi all,

I've always taken my dogs to conventions.  I even took my current dog
to NFB convention only a couple weeks after receiving him.  (I sound
like I'm boasting, but I honestly wouldn't recommend this.)

My first dog absolutely thrived at conventions.  She got her rest
during meetings, didn't need much down time, and loved the challenge
of the other dogs and canes.  When she retired early, I told the
school that I would be attending NFB conventions every year and that I
needed a dog who could handle it.  Bill gets a little more stressed
than my first dog.  He has a bedtime!  No, not kidding, like a
three-year-old child...  But he improves every year.

Bottom line about conventions: know your dog; no what you can handle;
and think about what you want to do and deal with at convention.  Some
people choose not to take their dogs because they don't want to deal
with the hastle of making room for them in a busy schedule of
meetings, sessions, and staying out late.  That reason may sound
selfish, but I fully understand it.

I also have a great system of friends.  The Performing Arts Division
will be holding a dance seminar this year at convention.  (Shameless
plug!)  My dog will not be pleased to join this particular experience,
so I have already asked friends to look after him that evening.  So,
using our network is totally an option.  If you want to attend our
dance seminar but don't think your dog will stay put while you dance,
then we can reach out to NAGDU members or other friends who wouldn't
mind dog sitting.  :)



On 4/26/16, Jenine Stanley via NAGDU <nagdu at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> One definite plus of the NFB conventions is the well-written directions that
> come in the program. Since that program is usually out prior to convention,
> you can study those directions. I’ve found them extremely helpful, even if
> it’s at the same place for a couple years in a row. They are a good
> reminder.
>
> On 4/26/16, 9:15 AM, "NAGDU on behalf of Elizabeth Campbell via NAGDU"
> <nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org on behalf of nagdu at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>
>>Hi everyone,
>>
>>
>>
>>I agree that convention can be stressful for both dogs and  handlers.
>>
>>
>>
>>I have found that it is helpful to arrive a couple of days before the
>>seminar day so that I can get the lay of the land, so to speak.
>>
>>Also, schools often send instructors who can help with issues and also with
>>orientation questions.
>>
>>Others have said this,and I also agree that it is very important to give
>>your dog downtime. I sometimes did this and just arrived a little later at
>>meetings and so forth.
>>
>>
>>
>>I think it is a rewarding experience to bring our dogs to the convention
>>because they show you what they are capable of handling.
>>
>>
>>
>>Best
>>
>>
>>
>>Liz
>>
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>
>
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-- 
Julie A. McGinnity
President, National Federation of the Blind Performing Arts Division,
Second Vice President, National Federation of the Blind of Missouri
"For we walk by faith, not by sight"
2 Cor. 7