[NAGDU] First Guide dog excitement and nerves.

[Joy Relton]

Hi Sam,

I am currently working with my seventh guide. I have had those same feelings of uncertainty or nervousness at some level with each guide. Afterall, you are meeting a new partner about whom you know very little. I simply remind myself that the new partner doesn't know anything about me yet either. I try to be patient with myself as well as them. So, put a big smile on your face and in your voice, make sure you are wearing comfortable sturdy shoes and just listen to your instructor and your new partner. I ask lots of questions about how I and my new partner are interacting and I try to act as though I am starting at the beginning. In other words, I am careful to remind myself of a proper body alignment, the position of my arm and the tension on the harness handle. It's funny, but even after six dogs and felt a little as though I was stumbling over my own feet when Vicky and I started working together. That's because I was remembering how the previous dog felt. I simply reminded myself that this new partner is like starting from scratch. Another thing, when they tell you to spend time getting to know your dog take it seriously. Then, relax and enjoy that new person and accept them with all of their bumps as bruises, after all, that the way they are taking you. Lastly absolutely enjoy yourself!!!

Good luck. 

-----Original Message-----
From: NAGDU <nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Sam Doman via NAGDU
Sent: Monday, June 26, 2023 9:10 AM
To: the National Association of Guide Dog Users NAGDU Mailing List <NAGDU at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Sam Doman <skdoman2001 at gmail.com>
Subject: [NAGDU] First Guide dog excitement and nerves.

Hi all,
So I ment to send a message a while back, but I got a little preoccupied. I am heading off to leader dog in a couple of weeks for my first guide and I’m feeling a lot of emotions right now. I’m mostly excited, but I’m also a little nervous and there is a part of me that is questioning my decision. I assume that these feelings are all normal, but for you experienced guide dog handlers, I wanted to ask how you overcame all those feelings and emotions and if you had any advice for me.
Thank you for any help you can provide.
Sam
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