[NAGDU] factors considered when matching a guide dog

[Tracy Carcione]

Hi Madison.
That was interesting, though I wonder what they mean by saying part of their
matching is assessment of the dog's reliability with steps and overhead
obstacles.  Do they say "Well, this guy can see a bit, so it's OK if the dog
drags him down some steps or smashes his head into something."?  NOT!
Tracy


-----Original Message-----
From: NAGDU [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Madison Martin
via NAGDU
Sent: Wednesday, January 22, 2020 4:14 PM
To: 'NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users'
Cc: Madison Martin
Subject: [NAGDU] factors considered when matching a guide dog

Hi all,
I just read an interesting article in a monthly guide dog newsletter that I
receive from a Canadian guide dog school. It talked about what factors they
consider when matching an applicant with a guide dog. Here's the link to the
article:
https://cnib.cmail19.com/t/d-l-xutykut-jiujfiyih-k/>
If you don't want to click on the link then here's the text of the article:

Inside Scoop: Matching a guide dog with someone who is blind 







By Ben Francis, Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, CNIB Guide Dogs

Guide Dog Mobility Instructors are often asked: "How does the matching
process work, when it comes to selecting the right dog for each person?"

CNIB Guide Dogs has a pre-matching process that is completed during the
interview stage, whether the applicant is replacing a previous guide dog or
applying for their first one. This information is crucial because it helps
us select a dog that will meet the specific needs of the individual. So,
what are the key factors that we consider when matching a guide dog with
someone who is blind?

Physical Compatibility - The dog should be compatible with the handler's
build. A dog that is too small may have difficulty guiding a larger person.
A dog that is too large may present control issues, as it can learn to use
its weight to its advantage.

Temperamental Compatibility - Most of the dog's life will be spent out of
harness, so it's important that the handler is compatible with the dog. The
dog should be a pleasure to be around, and he or she should not be a
nuisance. Some of the factors range from nervous to relaxed, excitable to
calm, energetic to lethargic and adventurous to conservative.

Guiding and Following - When assessing the potential partnership for guiding
the following compatibility, we look at:
.the speed of the handler and the dog
.the dog's willingness to accept physical contact, poor balance or an uneven
gait from the handler, slow or reluctant following and variations in
reflexes .the dog's sensitivity levels - body, hearing and mental
sensitivities must be assessed to ensure the dog and handler are compatible.
For example, a handler who is quiet with a high-energy dog may experience
control issues and be ineffective.
.the dog's ability to accept the handler's natural handle tension and grip
.the dog's reliability when dealing with hazards, such as steps, traffic or
overhead obstacles, which can pose a challenge to the handler

If handlers have a specific breed, colour, size or gender of dog that they
strongly prefer, these attributes should be considered during the matching
process. While specific preferences can't always be accommodated, it can
often affect the handler's motivation and perseverance to build a bond and
work well with the dog. However, having a specific preference may affect the
wait time for receiving a match.

Partnering with a guide dog is a 50/50 relationship. As a Guide Dog Mobility
Instructor, it's important to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the
handler and dog to create a successful partnership.

I'm guessing that all schools consider the same factors when it comes to
matching a guide dog with an approved applicant, right? Just curioyus that's
all. Thanks 
Madison

 



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