[nagdu] nagdu Digest, Vol 106, Issue 27

Donna Elliott donnatelliott at gmail.com
Tue Jan 28 19:20:47 UTC 2014


Shannon and all, While the majority of Guiding Eyes dogs are labs, those are not the only dogs.  German Shepard guides are still bred and issued.  The Breeding Center for Guiding Eyes has been looking for good breeding stock of golden / lab crosses.  
If anyone has any questions about Guiding Eyes for the Blind, I'd be happy to provide accurate information.
Donna Elliott
Graduate Council GEB

Sent from my iPad

> On Jan 28, 2014, at 7:00 AM, nagdu-request at nfbnet.org wrote:
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> Today's Topics:
> 
>   1. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Shannon Dyer)
>   2. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Raven Tolliver)
>   3. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Matthew Dierckens)
>   4. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (barbandzoe at comcast.net)
>   5. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Matthew Dierckens)
>   6. Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog (Ginger Kutsch)
>   7. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Star Gazer)
>   8. Re: Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog (Buddy Brannan)
>   9. Re: Introducing myself, and a question
>      (National Association of Guide Dog Users)
>  10. Re: speaking of ownership
>      (National Association of Guide Dog Users)
>  11. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Larry D. Keeler)
>  12. Training Programs' Documentation
>      (National Association of Guide Dog Users)
>  13. Re: Introducing myself, and a question
>      (National Association of Guide Dog Users)
>  14. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Matthew Dierckens)
>  15. Re: speaking of ownership (Larry D. Keeler)
>  16. Re: Training Programs' Documentation (Darla Rogers)
>  17. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Darla Rogers)
>  18. Re: Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog (Darla Rogers)
>  19. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Shannon Dyer)
>  20. Re: speaking of ownership (Shannon Dyer)
>  21. Re: Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog (Shannon Dyer)
>  22. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (Matthew Dierckens)
>  23. Re: Introducing myself, and a question (barbandzoe at comcast.net)
> 
> 
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> Message: 1
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 09:39:40 -0500
> From: Shannon Dyer <solsticesinger at gmail.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <06B3A74D-BEF2-40E6-A300-A56146B95DB3 at gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Raven,
> 
> I am curious about your assertion that guiding eyes for the blind is only issuing labradors. I have known several people who have had other breeds. Is this a recent development?
> 
> Shannon and the Acelet
> 
>> On Jan 26, 2014, at 6:42 PM, RavenTolliver <ravend729 at gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Matt,
>> I suggest calling Fidelco to see if they provide dogs to people who
>> live outside of the tri-state area. I could be mistaken, but I thought
>> that clients had to live within the tri-state area to receive one of
>> their GSDS.
>> Gallant Hearts is a good suggestion, though if you go with that
>> school, they might not have a dog ready for you by the end of this
>> year, considering they're still pretty new. It's a good program to
>> look into though. I love everything I've heard about it. They
>> definitely do home training, but they require first-time guide dog
>> travelers to stay a week at their campus, then do a week or two of
>> home-training. Contact Becky to make certain of that, and also to ask
>> about the waiting list.
>> Guiding Eyes for the Blind does home-training, but unfortunately,
>> they're only issuing labradors, so if you want a different breed, that
>> program is obviously not an option for you.
>> Just out of curiosity, why would you rather attend a guide dog school
>> in the US instead of obtaining a dog from a program right there in
>> Canada? I know little about the Canadian guide dog programs, but I'm
>> just curious why you'd rather come here. Are you after a German
>> Shepherd, and none of the schools there issue them?
>> 
>> 
>> On 1/26/14, National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> <blind411 at verizon.net> wrote:
>>> Matt,
>>>   I suggest everyone first consider training programs that offer true
>>> ownership of the dog upon completion of training. This avoids the type of
>>> arbitrary, paternalistic  interference some have experienced from those
>>> training programs that retain ownership. It is also good to inquire about
>>> how various programs handle complaints from the public. Some programs will
>>> not accept anonymous complaints and employ third party objective evidence
>>> of
>>> abuse or neglect, while others accept anonymous complaints and will remove
>>> a
>>> dog even if a complaint is unfounded.
>>> 
>>> Fraternally yours,
>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew
>>> Dierckens
>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM
>>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>>> 
>>> Hello everyone.
>>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an
>>> inquiry.
>>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide
>>> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year.
>>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools.
>>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list
>>> who
>>> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about
>>> them.
>>> Thank you. :)
>>> 
>>> Matthew Dierckens
>>> Macintosh Trainer
>>> Blind Access Training
>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/ravend729%40gmail.com
>> 
>> 
>> -- 
>> Raven
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/solsticesinger%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 2
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 09:59:18 -0500
> From: Raven Tolliver <ravend729 at gmail.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID:
>    <CACQ+kovRCoQTaEUGbaqOmsoGPSEkYhk5ETDsShU3Qe8UBMb2Ag at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
> 
> Hi Shannon,
> Yes, this is very recent. I received one of Guiding Eyes' last
> goldens, and a classmate of mine received one of their last gsds.
> Approximately March of last year, Guiding Eyes traded their stock of
> goldens for GDB's breeding stock of German Sheperhds. Guiding Eyes
> scrapped their line of gsds, because many of them were flunking out of
> the guide dog program.
> Now, if you know someone who has received a GEB GSd within the last
> year, then I stand corrected. It's possible there's a few dregs. But
> to my knowledge, the last gsd was given out early last year.
> Guiding Eyes is currently working toward breeding a line of golden
> labradors, so I think they'll breed their labs with goldens from the
> Seeing Eye. I'm only guessing, but I know that several of their golden
> litters were from GEB goldens crossed with TSE goldens. My golden's
> sire was from TSE.
> 
> 
>> On 1/27/14, Shannon Dyer <solsticesinger at gmail.com> wrote:
>> Raven,
>> 
>> I am curious about your assertion that guiding eyes for the blind is only
>> issuing labradors. I have known several people who have had other breeds. Is
>> this a recent development?
>> 
>> Shannon and the Acelet
>> 
>>> On Jan 26, 2014, at 6:42 PM, RavenTolliver <ravend729 at gmail.com> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Matt,
>>> I suggest calling Fidelco to see if they provide dogs to people who
>>> live outside of the tri-state area. I could be mistaken, but I thought
>>> that clients had to live within the tri-state area to receive one of
>>> their GSDS.
>>> Gallant Hearts is a good suggestion, though if you go with that
>>> school, they might not have a dog ready for you by the end of this
>>> year, considering they're still pretty new. It's a good program to
>>> look into though. I love everything I've heard about it. They
>>> definitely do home training, but they require first-time guide dog
>>> travelers to stay a week at their campus, then do a week or two of
>>> home-training. Contact Becky to make certain of that, and also to ask
>>> about the waiting list.
>>> Guiding Eyes for the Blind does home-training, but unfortunately,
>>> they're only issuing labradors, so if you want a different breed, that
>>> program is obviously not an option for you.
>>> Just out of curiosity, why would you rather attend a guide dog school
>>> in the US instead of obtaining a dog from a program right there in
>>> Canada? I know little about the Canadian guide dog programs, but I'm
>>> just curious why you'd rather come here. Are you after a German
>>> Shepherd, and none of the schools there issue them?
>>> 
>>> 
>>> On 1/26/14, National Association of Guide Dog Users
>>> <blind411 at verizon.net> wrote:
>>>> Matt,
>>>>   I suggest everyone first consider training programs that offer true
>>>> ownership of the dog upon completion of training. This avoids the type
>>>> of
>>>> arbitrary, paternalistic  interference some have experienced from those
>>>> training programs that retain ownership. It is also good to inquire
>>>> about
>>>> how various programs handle complaints from the public. Some programs
>>>> will
>>>> not accept anonymous complaints and employ third party objective
>>>> evidence
>>>> of
>>>> abuse or neglect, while others accept anonymous complaints and will
>>>> remove
>>>> a
>>>> dog even if a complaint is unfounded.
>>>> 
>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew
>>>> Dierckens
>>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM
>>>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>>>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>>>> 
>>>> Hello everyone.
>>>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of
>>>> an
>>>> inquiry.
>>>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a
>>>> guide
>>>> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this
>>>> year.
>>>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools.
>>>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list
>>>> who
>>>> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about
>>>> them.
>>>> Thank you. :)
>>>> 
>>>> Matthew Dierckens
>>>> Macintosh Trainer
>>>> Blind Access Training
>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> nagdu mailing list
>>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>>> nagdu:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> nagdu mailing list
>>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>>> nagdu:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/ravend729%40gmail.com
>>> 
>>> 
>>> --
>>> Raven
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/solsticesinger%40gmail.com
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/ravend729%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> -- 
> Raven
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 3
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 11:53:50 -0500
> From: Matthew Dierckens <matt.dierckens at me.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <D316CB08-CC99-407D-AFDD-48A2E1213DD6 at me.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Hi Tina,
> I found the Braille Monitor article. Thank you very much. :)
> 
> Matthew Dierckens
> Macintosh Trainer
> Blind Access Training
> www.blindaccesstraining.com
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
> 
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 1:43 AM, Tina Thomas <judotina48kg at gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Hello Matt- You can find the Braille Monitor at nfb.org click on
>> publications. 
>> Let me know if you need assistance finding it. 
>> Tina 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:53 PM
>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>> 
>> Hello Marion.
>> Where would I obtain this Braille monitor? Also, the link you gave just goes
>> to wordpress.org.
>> Thanks.
>> 
>> Matthew Dierckens
>> Macintosh Trainer
>> Blind Access Training
>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Jan 26, 2014, at 6:09 PM, National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> <blind411 at verizon.net> wrote:
>> 
>>> Matt,
>>>    Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning 
>>> Fidelco and my blog post at
>>> 
>>> Harnessup.wordpress.org
>>> 
>>> Fraternally yours,
>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew 
>>> Dierckens
>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM
>>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>>> 
>>> Hello everyone.
>>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of 
>>> an inquiry.
>>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a 
>>> guide dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of
>> this year.
>>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools.
>>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this 
>>> list who have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear
>> about them.
>>> Thank you. :)
>>> 
>>> Matthew Dierckens
>>> Macintosh Trainer
>>> Blind Access Training
>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.
>>> net
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me
>>> .com
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/judotina48kg%40gmail.com
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 4
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 17:09:34 +0000 (UTC)
> From: barbandzoe at comcast.net
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID:
>    <1937315205.808283.1390842574798.JavaMail.root at comcast.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
> 
> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.? 
> ? 
> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.? but the reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools don't let you just take the dog and run.? I think with all schools there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
> ? 
> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have? guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.? They get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right or forward.? the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person waiting to go.? 
> How I know that the people on this list are probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs.?? But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be responsible for this dog.? 
> I say this because when I talk to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem.? So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK.? I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in what they are doing.? 
> ? 
> As I look at the? things people say and have said about their best and not so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to.?? 
> I think most of the schools are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.? there are a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very happy in their choice.? so I think you need to look at what they offer and see which one feels right for you.? 
> ? 
> Barb 
> ? 
> ? 
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> 
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net> 
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org> 
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM 
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Matt, 
> ????????Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning 
> Fidelco and my blog post at 
> 
> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
> 
> Fraternally yours, 
> Marion Gwizdala 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens 
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM 
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Hello everyone. 
> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an 
> inquiry. 
> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide 
> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who 
> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them. 
> Thank you. :) 
> 
> Matthew Dierckens 
> Macintosh Trainer 
> Blind Access Training 
> www.blindaccesstraining.com 
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 5
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 12:15:15 -0500
> From: Matthew Dierckens <matt.dierckens at me.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <212BD546-A3F3-44DD-A3F3-B0736DA9B9B9 at me.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Hi Barb, Let us know how your Fedelco experience is.
> I'm waiting for someone to call me back today from them, as well as GDB and GDF.
> Matthew Dierckens
> Macintosh Trainer
> Blind Access Training
> www.blindaccesstraining.com
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
> 
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 12:09 PM, barbandzoe at comcast.net wrote:
>> 
>> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.  
>> 
>> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.  but the reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools don't let you just take the dog and run.  I think with all schools there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
>> 
>> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have  guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.  They get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right or forward.  the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person waiting to go.  
>> How I know that the people on this list are probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs.   But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be responsible for this dog.  
>> I say this because when I talk to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem.  So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK.  I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in what they are doing.  
>> 
>> As I look at the  things people say and have said about their best and not so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
>> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to.   
>> I think most of the schools are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.  there are a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very happy in their choice.  so I think you need to look at what they offer and see which one feels right for you.  
>> 
>> Barb 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> 
>> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net> 
>> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org> 
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM 
>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
>> 
>> Matt, 
>>        Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning 
>> Fidelco and my blog post at 
>> 
>> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
>> 
>> Fraternally yours, 
>> Marion Gwizdala 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message----- 
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens 
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM 
>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
>> 
>> Hello everyone. 
>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an 
>> inquiry. 
>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide 
>> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who 
>> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them. 
>> Thank you. :) 
>> 
>> Matthew Dierckens 
>> Macintosh Trainer 
>> Blind Access Training 
>> www.blindaccesstraining.com 
>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________ 
>> nagdu mailing list 
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________ 
>> nagdu mailing list 
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 6
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 12:53:31 -0500
> From: "Ginger Kutsch" <GingerKutsch at yahoo.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [nagdu] Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog
> Message-ID: <01b601cf1b88$b186afd0$14940f70$@yahoo.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset="us-ascii"
> 
> FYI. An interesting case where the parent's disability rights lawyer
> believes school districts should train classroom aides to handle service
> dogs in addition to all other duties they perform for their disabled
> student. 
> 
> 
> 
> Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog For Son With Cerebral Palsy
> 
> By Kathryn Schroeder, Sun, January 26, 2014
> 
> http://www.opposingviews.com/i/society/parent-sues-school-district-over-serv
> ice-dog-son-cerebral-palsy
> 
> 
> 
> Anthony Marchante, 6, has cerebral palsy. He requires the assistance of his
> medium-sized terrier service dog, Stevie, to alert others to oncoming
> convulsions and to help calm him down.
> 
> 
> 
> Anthony's mother has filed a federal lawsuit against the Broward School
> Board, claiming discrimination because of too many barriers to gain approval
> for her son's service dog to be allowed on campus with him.
> 
> 
> 
> Anthony's mother, Monica Alboniga, was told by the district that she had to
> provide liability insurance for the dog and additional vaccinations that did
> not exist.
> 
> 
> 
> The district later waived those requirements, but asked Albonigo to provide
> a handler for the dog since Anthony was not capable of serving as one.
> 
> 
> 
> In the suit against the school district, Albonigo claims the district is
> "inflicting extreme hardship on her and violating the Americans with
> Disabilities Act and The Rehabilitation Act by implementing excessive
> procedural hurdles," reports the SunSentinel.
> 
> 
> 
> Albonigo wants the district to amend its policies and pay her legal fees.
> 
> 
> 
> The school district declined to comment on the lawsuit.
> 
> 
> 
> They do admit that they are discussing implementing a new service animal
> policy, but it would still require a handler to be provided and insurance.
> 
> 
> 
> "There's not a lot of [school] districts that have a policy," said
> compliance director Dildra Martin-Ogburn to the SunSentinel. "Service
> animals have been around for a long time but it's just coming on board where
> they are coming to schools."
> 
> 
> 
> At this time, Stevie is the only service animal in the district.  
> 
> 
> 
> Alboniga goes to school with Stevie each day acting as his handler; she is
> not allowed to help Anthony in any other way.
> 
> 
> 
> "I have to be in complete silence all the time just looking at the dog. You
> always feel uncomfortable," said Alboniga.
> 
> 
> 
> Furthermore, adds Albonigo, Stevie does not eat or drink at the school and
> rarely does he need to go to the bathroom.
> 
> 
> 
> Matthew Dietz, a disability rights lawyer representing Alboniga, believes
> school districts should train classroom aides to handle service dogs.
> 
> 
> 
> "When you are dealing with a seriously disabled child like Anthony, you're
> feeding, you're toileting, you're doing all these personal services," he
> said. "It would be no problem for that to be an additional duty."
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 7
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 13:23:53 -0500
> From: "Star Gazer" <pickrellrebecca at gmail.com>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'" <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <015d01cf1b8c$ef978610$cec69230$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset="UTF-8"
> 
> One word for you, Barb, and that is GPS. 
> It's everywhere now and most of its users are sighted. 
> I say this only because when someone who can see pauses to figure out where they are, and what they need to do next, it's regarded as normal. Yet, you don't seem willing to give these men the same latitude. Why is that? 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of barbandzoe at comcast.net
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 12:10 PM
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> 
> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.  
> 
> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.  but the reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools don't let you just take the dog and run.  I think with all schools there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
> 
> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have  guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.  They get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right or forward.  the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person waiting to go. How I know that the people on this list are probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs.   But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be responsible for this dog. I say this because when I talk to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem.  So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK.  I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in what they are doing.  
> 
> As I look at the  things people say and have said about their best and not so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to. I think most of the schools are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.  there are a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very happy in their choice.  so I think you need to look at what they offer and see which one feels right for you.  
> 
> Barb 
> 
> 
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> 
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Matt,
>        Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning Fidelco and my blog post at 
> 
> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
> 
> Fraternally yours,
> Marion Gwizdala 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens 
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM 
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Hello everyone. 
> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an 
> inquiry. 
> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide 
> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who 
> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them. 
> Thank you. :) 
> 
> Matthew Dierckens 
> Macintosh Trainer 
> Blind Access Training 
> www.blindaccesstraining.com 
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/pickrellrebecca%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 8
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 13:24:24 -0500
> From: Buddy Brannan <buddy at brannan.name>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog
> Message-ID: <57FF4CB9-938A-4B14-B54B-14901508FC21 at brannan.name>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252
> 
> Umm. Yeah?I kinda think (and, sad to say, hope) they lose. It isn?t reasonable to expect a classroom aid to act as the dog?s handler. In all cases I?m aware of, it?s the responsibility of the disabled person to either handle, or provide someone who handles, his service dog. To expect more than this is unreasonable. 
> --
> Buddy Brannan, KB5ELV - Erie, PA
> Phone: (814) 860-3194 or 888-75-BUDDY
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 12:53 PM, Ginger Kutsch <gingerKutsch at yahoo.com> wrote:
>> 
>> FYI. An interesting case where the parent's disability rights lawyer
>> believes school districts should train classroom aides to handle service
>> dogs in addition to all other duties they perform for their disabled
>> student. 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog For Son With Cerebral Palsy
>> 
>> By Kathryn Schroeder, Sun, January 26, 2014
>> 
>> http://www.opposingviews.com/i/society/parent-sues-school-district-over-serv
>> ice-dog-son-cerebral-palsy
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Anthony Marchante, 6, has cerebral palsy. He requires the assistance of his
>> medium-sized terrier service dog, Stevie, to alert others to oncoming
>> convulsions and to help calm him down.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Anthony's mother has filed a federal lawsuit against the Broward School
>> Board, claiming discrimination because of too many barriers to gain approval
>> for her son's service dog to be allowed on campus with him.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Anthony's mother, Monica Alboniga, was told by the district that she had to
>> provide liability insurance for the dog and additional vaccinations that did
>> not exist.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> The district later waived those requirements, but asked Albonigo to provide
>> a handler for the dog since Anthony was not capable of serving as one.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> In the suit against the school district, Albonigo claims the district is
>> "inflicting extreme hardship on her and violating the Americans with
>> Disabilities Act and The Rehabilitation Act by implementing excessive
>> procedural hurdles," reports the SunSentinel.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Albonigo wants the district to amend its policies and pay her legal fees.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> The school district declined to comment on the lawsuit.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> They do admit that they are discussing implementing a new service animal
>> policy, but it would still require a handler to be provided and insurance.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> "There's not a lot of [school] districts that have a policy," said
>> compliance director Dildra Martin-Ogburn to the SunSentinel. "Service
>> animals have been around for a long time but it's just coming on board where
>> they are coming to schools."
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> At this time, Stevie is the only service animal in the district.  
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Alboniga goes to school with Stevie each day acting as his handler; she is
>> not allowed to help Anthony in any other way.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> "I have to be in complete silence all the time just looking at the dog. You
>> always feel uncomfortable," said Alboniga.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Furthermore, adds Albonigo, Stevie does not eat or drink at the school and
>> rarely does he need to go to the bathroom.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Matthew Dietz, a disability rights lawyer representing Alboniga, believes
>> school districts should train classroom aides to handle service dogs.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> "When you are dealing with a seriously disabled child like Anthony, you're
>> feeding, you're toileting, you're doing all these personal services," he
>> said. "It would be no problem for that to be an additional duty."
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/buddy%40brannan.name
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 9
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 15:56:23 -0500
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'"    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <028e01cf1ba2$3ccccb60$b6666220$@verizon.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
> 
> Barb,
>    I agree with your assertion that there are those who should not receive a dog until they have better O&M skills. O&M is the basic skill of travel, whether by cane or dog. Some training programs require proficiency in cane travel as a prerequisite for training, while others seem to believe the myths held by the general public that a dog will solve a blind person's mobility problems. If the person cannot get there independently, how can that person give the dog the proper direction to get them there? .
> 
> Fraternally yours,
> Marion Gwizdala
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of barbandzoe at comcast.net
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 12:10 PM
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> 
> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.  
> 
> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.  but the reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools don't let you just take the dog and run.  I think with all schools there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
> 
> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have  guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.  They get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right or forward.  the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person waiting to go. How I know that the people on this list are probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs.   But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be responsible for this dog. I say this because when I talk to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem.  So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK.  I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in what they are doing.  
> 
> As I look at the  things people say and have said about their best and not so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to. I think most of the schools are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.  there are a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very happy in their choice.  so I think you need to look at what they offer and see which one feels right for you.  
> 
> Barb 
> 
> 
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> 
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Matt,
>        Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning Fidelco and my blog post at 
> 
> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
> 
> Fraternally yours,
> Marion Gwizdala 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens 
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM 
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Hello everyone. 
> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an 
> inquiry. 
> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide 
> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who 
> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them. 
> Thank you. :) 
> 
> Matthew Dierckens 
> Macintosh Trainer 
> Blind Access Training 
> www.blindaccesstraining.com 
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 10
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:11:24 -0500
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'"    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> Message-ID: <028f01cf1ba4$55df5580$019e0080$@verizon.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
> 
> Chantel,
>    I was wondering if you or some other Pilot consumer have a copy of
> Pilot Dogs' agreement you would be willing to share with us. If so, please
> send it to me off-list at
> 
> Info at nagdu.org
> 
> With warm regards,
> Marion Gwizdala
> 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Chantel Cuddemi
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 8:54 PM
> To: 'NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users'
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> 
> Pilot Dogs grants full ownership of the dog upon graduation.
> 
> Hope that helps,
> 
> Chantel and Motley.
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Sherry Gomes
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 8:01 PM
> To: nagdu at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> 
> Hi everyone,
> 
> I'm currently looking at schools. Considering retiring my current guide, and
> since I need a kind of special dog, I thought I'd start working on applying
> now. One of the things on my list of reasons for choosing a particular
> school next time is ownership at the time of graduation. What other schools
> beside TSE give ownership right away?
> 
> Sherry
> 
> 
> So hold this moment fast,
> And live and love as hard as you know how, And make this moment last,
> Because the best of times is now.
> --La cage aux Folles
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/jawsgirl87%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 11
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:14:22 -0500
> From: "Larry D. Keeler" <lkeeler at comcast.net>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <E5403D60F458462E9179D7AC941E1966 at yourec0540d030>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
>    reply-type=original
> 
> Marion, I don't know how many times and how many folks come to me and say 
> something like my doctor says I need a dog, how do i get one. Clearly, some 
> don't know have any mobility skills to speak of. I am currently trying to 
> convince someone I know not to get a ddog. She has a fair amount of sight 
> and doesn't want to use her cane. She does need it in the dark or where 
> lighting is poor but only wants to be identified as blind when its 
> convenient for her. She just lost her pet dog and now wants to get a guide 
> dog. As I know the woman and do a lot of volunteer work with her in town, I 
> think its a bad idea for her but, what can ya do! She'll probably get one 
> and only use it when its fashionable. She says she also needs the dog for 
> balance as well. But, the school she has applied to doesn't do balance dogs. 
> I asked her for what balance issues and she said that she has a hard time 
> with ice and her stairs. Any way, I am a firm believer in learning to travel 
> on your own before using a dog. I waited 45 years before trying the dog 
> thing and I love it! Well except for when the general public tries to tell 
> Holly where I want to go! That doesn't work!
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users'" 
> <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 3:56 PM
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> 
> 
>> Barb,
>> I agree with your assertion that there are those who should not receive a 
>> dog until they have better O&M skills. O&M is the basic skill of travel, 
>> whether by cane or dog. Some training programs require proficiency in cane 
>> travel as a prerequisite for training, while others seem to believe the 
>> myths held by the general public that a dog will solve a blind person's 
>> mobility problems. If the person cannot get there independently, how can 
>> that person give the dog the proper direction to get them there? .
>> 
>> Fraternally yours,
>> Marion Gwizdala
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
>> barbandzoe at comcast.net
>> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 12:10 PM
>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>> 
>> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.
>> 
>> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.  but the 
>> reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and 
>> Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some 
>> schools don't let you just take the dog and run.  I think with all schools 
>> there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have 
>> ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to 
>> handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet.
>> 
>> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who 
>> have  guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, 
>> and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.  They 
>> get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go 
>> left, right or forward.  the dog is just standing looking around and then 
>> at his person waiting to go. How I know that the people on this list are 
>> probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a 
>> list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with 
>> theirs.   But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these 
>> guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training 
>> before he can be responsible for this dog. I say this because when I talk 
>> to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and 
>> work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem. 
>> So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK. 
>> I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much 
>> happier and confident in what they are doing.
>> 
>> As I look at the  things people say and have said about their best and not 
>> so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the 
>> kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want 
>> to travel a long way from home or stay nearby.
>> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks 
>> off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to. I think most of the schools 
>> are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.  there are 
>> a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and 
>> are very happy in their choice.  so I think you need to look at what they 
>> offer and see which one feels right for you.
>> 
>> Barb
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> 
>> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
>> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" 
>> <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM
>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>> 
>> Matt,
>>       Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning 
>> Fidelco and my blog post at
>> 
>> Harnessup.wordpress.org
>> 
>> Fraternally yours,
>> Marion Gwizdala
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message----- 
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew 
>> Dierckens
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM
>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>> 
>> Hello everyone.
>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an
>> inquiry.
>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide
>> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this 
>> year.
>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools.
>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list 
>> who
>> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about 
>> them.
>> Thank you. :)
>> 
>> Matthew Dierckens
>> Macintosh Trainer
>> Blind Access Training
>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/lkeeler%40comcast.net
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 12
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:28:38 -0500
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'"    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [nagdu] Training Programs' Documentation
> Message-ID: <029301cf1ba6$be96f900$3bc4eb00$@verizon.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
> 
> Sherry,
>    The information I offer is based upon an actual review of the
> available documents. From what I have been able to ascertain, the following
> programs transfer ownership upon completion of training:
> 
> Guide Dogs of America
> Guide Dog Foundation
> Southeastern Guide Dogs
> The Seeing Eye
> 
> I have heard that Pilot Dogs also transfers ownership upon completion of
> training; however, we have not been able to objectively verify this
> information. We have requested the pertinent agreements from each of the
> training programs and they have not been forthcoming with this information.
> To date, the following programs have voluntarily shared their agreements
> with us:
> 
> Guide Dogs of America
> Guide Dogs for the Blind
> Guide Dog Foundation
> The Seeing Eye
> 
> All other programs have ignored our request for these documents. Of those
> who have not voluntarily provided us this information, Only Southeastern
> responded with a refusal, stating their documents were proprietary, while
> asserting they provide consumers the ability to review their agreements in
> advance of engaging in training.
> 
> Consumers have shared the documents of the following training programs:
> 
> Fidelco Guide Dogs
> Leader Dogs for the blind 
> Southeastern Guide Dogs
> 
> If anyone would be willing to share the documents of those training programs
> for which we do not have information and which are unwilling to provide us
> such documentation, all identifying information will be redacted from the
> agreements and your identities kep anonymous and confidential.
> 
> With warm regards,
> 
> Marion Gwizdala, President
> National Association of Guide Dog Users Inc.
> National Federation of the Blind
> (813) 626-2789 (Office)
> 888-NAGDU411 (Hotline
> President at nagdu.org
> www.nagdu.org
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Sherry Gomes
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 8:01 PM
> To: nagdu at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> 
> Hi everyone,
> 
> I'm currently looking at schools. Considering retiring my current guide, and
> since I need a kind of special dog, I thought I'd start working on applying
> now. One of the things on my list of reasons for choosing a particular
> school next time is ownership at the time of graduation. What other schools
> beside TSE give ownership right away?
> 
> Sherry
> 
> 
> So hold this moment fast,
> And live and love as hard as you know how, And make this moment last,
> Because the best of times is now.
> --La cage aux Folles
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 13
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:30:08 -0500
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'"    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <029401cf1ba6$f43f6470$dcbe2d50$@verizon.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
> 
> Matt,
>    I apologize for the incorrect information concerning our blog. The
> correct URL is
> 
> http://www.harnessup.wordpress.com
> 
> Fraternally yours,
> Marion Gwizdala
> 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 7:15 PM
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> 
> Hi Marion. Thank you for all the suggestions. Aat this point I am just
> looking at my options, making phone calls and such.
> I am also looking at GDF and GDB as possible options, and will also look
> into Guiding Eyes as well.
> 
> Matthew Dierckens
> Macintosh Trainer
> Blind Access Training
> www.blindaccesstraining.com
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
> 
> 
> 
> 
> On Jan 26, 2014, at 6:15 PM, National Association of Guide Dog Users
> <blind411 at verizon.net> wrote:
> 
>> Matt,
>>    I suggest everyone first consider training programs that offer true 
>> ownership of the dog upon completion of training. This avoids the type 
>> of arbitrary, paternalistic  interference some have experienced from 
>> those training programs that retain ownership. It is also good to 
>> inquire about how various programs handle complaints from the public. 
>> Some programs will not accept anonymous complaints and employ third 
>> party objective evidence of abuse or neglect, while others accept 
>> anonymous complaints and will remove a dog even if a complaint is
> unfounded.
>> 
>> Fraternally yours,
>> Marion Gwizdala
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew 
>> Dierckens
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM
>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>> 
>> Hello everyone.
>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of 
>> an inquiry.
>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a 
>> guide dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of
> this year.
>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools.
>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this 
>> list who have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear
> about them.
>> Thank you. :)
>> 
>> Matthew Dierckens
>> Macintosh Trainer
>> Blind Access Training
>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.
>> net
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me
>> .com
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 14
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:42:44 -0500
> From: Matthew Dierckens <matt.dierckens at me.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <6FCB45DA-54E2-49E3-99F3-060B09176622 at me.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Thanks a lot, I will check it out.
> Matthew Dierckens
> Macintosh Trainer
> Blind Access Training
> www.blindaccesstraining.com
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
> 
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 4:30 PM, National Association of Guide Dog Users <blind411 at verizon.net> wrote:
>> 
>> Matt,
>>    I apologize for the incorrect information concerning our blog. The
>> correct URL is
>> 
>> http://www.harnessup.wordpress.com
>> 
>> Fraternally yours,
>> Marion Gwizdala
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 7:15 PM
>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>> 
>> Hi Marion. Thank you for all the suggestions. Aat this point I am just
>> looking at my options, making phone calls and such.
>> I am also looking at GDF and GDB as possible options, and will also look
>> into Guiding Eyes as well.
>> 
>> Matthew Dierckens
>> Macintosh Trainer
>> Blind Access Training
>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Jan 26, 2014, at 6:15 PM, National Association of Guide Dog Users
>> <blind411 at verizon.net> wrote:
>> 
>>> Matt,
>>>    I suggest everyone first consider training programs that offer true 
>>> ownership of the dog upon completion of training. This avoids the type 
>>> of arbitrary, paternalistic  interference some have experienced from 
>>> those training programs that retain ownership. It is also good to 
>>> inquire about how various programs handle complaints from the public. 
>>> Some programs will not accept anonymous complaints and employ third 
>>> party objective evidence of abuse or neglect, while others accept 
>>> anonymous complaints and will remove a dog even if a complaint is
>> unfounded.
>>> 
>>> Fraternally yours,
>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew 
>>> Dierckens
>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM
>>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
>>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
>>> 
>>> Hello everyone.
>>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of 
>>> an inquiry.
>>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a 
>>> guide dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of
>> this year.
>>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools.
>>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this 
>>> list who have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear
>> about them.
>>> Thank you. :)
>>> 
>>> Matthew Dierckens
>>> Macintosh Trainer
>>> Blind Access Training
>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.
>>> net
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me
>>> .com
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 15
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:44:30 -0500
> From: "Larry D. Keeler" <lkeeler at comcast.net>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> Message-ID: <A1BAB25AE6474902944C0CACCC96ED5B at yourec0540d030>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
>    reply-type=original
> 
> I'll look for mine, think I know where it is!
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users'" 
> <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 4:11 PM
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> 
> 
>> Chantel,
>> I was wondering if you or some other Pilot consumer have a copy of
>> Pilot Dogs' agreement you would be willing to share with us. If so, please
>> send it to me off-list at
>> 
>> Info at nagdu.org
>> 
>> With warm regards,
>> Marion Gwizdala
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Chantel Cuddemi
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 8:54 PM
>> To: 'NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users'
>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
>> 
>> Pilot Dogs grants full ownership of the dog upon graduation.
>> 
>> Hope that helps,
>> 
>> Chantel and Motley.
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Sherry Gomes
>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 8:01 PM
>> To: nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> Subject: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
>> 
>> Hi everyone,
>> 
>> I'm currently looking at schools. Considering retiring my current guide, 
>> and
>> since I need a kind of special dog, I thought I'd start working on 
>> applying
>> now. One of the things on my list of reasons for choosing a particular
>> school next time is ownership at the time of graduation. What other 
>> schools
>> beside TSE give ownership right away?
>> 
>> Sherry
>> 
>> 
>> So hold this moment fast,
>> And live and love as hard as you know how, And make this moment last,
>> Because the best of times is now.
>> --La cage aux Folles
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/jawsgirl87%40gmail.com
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
>> nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/lkeeler%40comcast.net
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 16
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 18:02:32 -0600
> From: "Darla Rogers" <djrogers0628 at gmail.com>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'" <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Training Programs' Documentation
> Message-ID: <002b01cf1bbc$3e9a3990$bbceacb0$@com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset="us-ascii"
> 
> Dear Marion,
> 
>    Would that put a student in jeopardy if a school believed he/she
> shared documents; I certainly don't understand--no matter what they say--why
> schools won't share this, and at the same time, make candidate
> qualifications very clear to students.  Some seem rather Draconian to me, so
> I chose another school.
> Darla & handsome Huck
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of National
> Association of Guide Dog Users
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 3:29 PM
> To: 'NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users'
> Subject: [nagdu] Training Programs' Documentation
> 
> Sherry,
>    The information I offer is based upon an actual review of the
> available documents. From what I have been able to ascertain, the following
> programs transfer ownership upon completion of training:
> 
> Guide Dogs of America
> Guide Dog Foundation
> Southeastern Guide Dogs
> The Seeing Eye
> 
> I have heard that Pilot Dogs also transfers ownership upon completion of
> training; however, we have not been able to objectively verify this
> information. We have requested the pertinent agreements from each of the
> training programs and they have not been forthcoming with this information.
> To date, the following programs have voluntarily shared their agreements
> with us:
> 
> Guide Dogs of America
> Guide Dogs for the Blind
> Guide Dog Foundation
> The Seeing Eye
> 
> All other programs have ignored our request for these documents. Of those
> who have not voluntarily provided us this information, Only Southeastern
> responded with a refusal, stating their documents were proprietary, while
> asserting they provide consumers the ability to review their agreements in
> advance of engaging in training.
> 
> Consumers have shared the documents of the following training programs:
> 
> Fidelco Guide Dogs
> Leader Dogs for the blind
> Southeastern Guide Dogs
> 
> If anyone would be willing to share the documents of those training programs
> for which we do not have information and which are unwilling to provide us
> such documentation, all identifying information will be redacted from the
> agreements and your identities kep anonymous and confidential.
> 
> With warm regards,
> 
> Marion Gwizdala, President
> National Association of Guide Dog Users Inc.
> National Federation of the Blind
> (813) 626-2789 (Office)
> 888-NAGDU411 (Hotline
> President at nagdu.org
> www.nagdu.org
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Sherry Gomes
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 8:01 PM
> To: nagdu at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> 
> Hi everyone,
> 
> I'm currently looking at schools. Considering retiring my current guide, and
> since I need a kind of special dog, I thought I'd start working on applying
> now. One of the things on my list of reasons for choosing a particular
> school next time is ownership at the time of graduation. What other schools
> beside TSE give ownership right away?
> 
> Sherry
> 
> 
> So hold this moment fast,
> And live and love as hard as you know how, And make this moment last,
> Because the best of times is now.
> --La cage aux Folles
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/djrogers0628%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 17
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 18:05:03 -0600
> From: "Darla Rogers" <djrogers0628 at gmail.com>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'" <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <002c01cf1bbc$98b84b10$ca28e130$@com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset="us-ascii"
> 
> Hi Marion,
> 
>    I am in total agreement, but many don't realize how hard it is to
> get o&m without having a VR case opened; I don't know if one can just go to
> an NFB center or not to gain any blindness skills that are needed without
> funding from VR.
> Darla 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of National
> Association of Guide Dog Users
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 2:56 PM
> To: 'NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users'
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> 
> Barb,
>    I agree with your assertion that there are those who should not
> receive a dog until they have better O&M skills. O&M is the basic skill of
> travel, whether by cane or dog. Some training programs require proficiency
> in cane travel as a prerequisite for training, while others seem to believe
> the myths held by the general public that a dog will solve a blind person's
> mobility problems. If the person cannot get there independently, how can
> that person give the dog the proper direction to get them there? .
> 
> Fraternally yours,
> Marion Gwizdala
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
> barbandzoe at comcast.net
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 12:10 PM
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> 
> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.  
> 
> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.  but the
> reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes
> I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools
> don't let you just take the dog and run.  I think with all schools there
> should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have
> ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle
> a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
> 
> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have
> guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and
> then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.  They get off
> the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right
> or forward.  the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person
> waiting to go. How I know that the people on this list are probably some of
> the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if
> you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs.   But I see
> this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to
> me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be
> responsible for this dog. I say this because when I talk to the schools,
> they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs
> almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem.  So I think, does
> the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK.  I have also seen
> some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in
> what they are doing.  
> 
> As I look at the  things people say and have said about their best and not
> so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the
> kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want
> to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off
> work, I wouldn't have job to come home to. I think most of the schools are
> very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.  there are a lot
> of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very
> happy in their choice.  so I think you need to look at what they offer and
> see which one feels right for you.  
> 
> Barb 
> 
> 
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> 
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
> <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Matt,
>        Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning
> Fidelco and my blog post at 
> 
> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
> 
> Fraternally yours,
> Marion Gwizdala 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Hello everyone. 
> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an
> inquiry. 
> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide
> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who
> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them.
> 
> Thank you. :) 
> 
> Matthew Dierckens
> Macintosh Trainer
> Blind Access Training
> www.blindaccesstraining.com
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/djrogers0628%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 18
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 18:08:04 -0600
> From: "Darla Rogers" <djrogers0628 at gmail.com>
> To: "'NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog
>    Users'" <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog
> Message-ID: <003001cf1bbd$04aba380$0e02ea80$@com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset="us-ascii"
> 
> Hi Everyone,
> 
>    I'm not sure should air my point-of-view here since I know this
> attorney quite well  given he helped me with a suit against a former
> employer.
> 
> Darla
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Ginger Kutsch
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 11:54 AM
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
> Subject: [nagdu] Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog
> 
> FYI. An interesting case where the parent's disability rights lawyer
> believes school districts should train classroom aides to handle service
> dogs in addition to all other duties they perform for their disabled
> student. 
> 
> 
> 
> Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog For Son With Cerebral Palsy
> 
> By Kathryn Schroeder, Sun, January 26, 2014
> 
> http://www.opposingviews.com/i/society/parent-sues-school-district-over-serv
> ice-dog-son-cerebral-palsy
> 
> 
> 
> Anthony Marchante, 6, has cerebral palsy. He requires the assistance of his
> medium-sized terrier service dog, Stevie, to alert others to oncoming
> convulsions and to help calm him down.
> 
> 
> 
> Anthony's mother has filed a federal lawsuit against the Broward School
> Board, claiming discrimination because of too many barriers to gain approval
> for her son's service dog to be allowed on campus with him.
> 
> 
> 
> Anthony's mother, Monica Alboniga, was told by the district that she had to
> provide liability insurance for the dog and additional vaccinations that did
> not exist.
> 
> 
> 
> The district later waived those requirements, but asked Albonigo to provide
> a handler for the dog since Anthony was not capable of serving as one.
> 
> 
> 
> In the suit against the school district, Albonigo claims the district is
> "inflicting extreme hardship on her and violating the Americans with
> Disabilities Act and The Rehabilitation Act by implementing excessive
> procedural hurdles," reports the SunSentinel.
> 
> 
> 
> Albonigo wants the district to amend its policies and pay her legal fees.
> 
> 
> 
> The school district declined to comment on the lawsuit.
> 
> 
> 
> They do admit that they are discussing implementing a new service animal
> policy, but it would still require a handler to be provided and insurance.
> 
> 
> 
> "There's not a lot of [school] districts that have a policy," said
> compliance director Dildra Martin-Ogburn to the SunSentinel. "Service
> animals have been around for a long time but it's just coming on board where
> they are coming to schools."
> 
> 
> 
> At this time, Stevie is the only service animal in the district.  
> 
> 
> 
> Alboniga goes to school with Stevie each day acting as his handler; she is
> not allowed to help Anthony in any other way.
> 
> 
> 
> "I have to be in complete silence all the time just looking at the dog. You
> always feel uncomfortable," said Alboniga.
> 
> 
> 
> Furthermore, adds Albonigo, Stevie does not eat or drink at the school and
> rarely does he need to go to the bathroom.
> 
> 
> 
> Matthew Dietz, a disability rights lawyer representing Alboniga, believes
> school districts should train classroom aides to handle service dogs.
> 
> 
> 
> "When you are dealing with a seriously disabled child like Anthony, you're
> feeding, you're toileting, you're doing all these personal services," he
> said. "It would be no problem for that to be an additional duty."
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nagdu mailing list
> nagdu at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/djrogers0628%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 19
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 20:33:55 -0500
> From: Shannon Dyer <solsticesinger at gmail.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <92D36293-0969-4EB3-9895-913BC108521E at gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
> 
> Hi, Matt.
> 
> I'm Shannon. I'm working my third guide. All of my dogs have come from GDF. I've had fabulous experiences there. I wish you all the best in your search for the school that best meets your needs.
> 
> Shannon and the Acelet
>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 12:15 PM, Matthew Dierckens <matt.dierckens at me.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Hi Barb, Let us know how your Fedelco experience is.
>> I'm waiting for someone to call me back today from them, as well as GDB and GDF.
>> Matthew Dierckens
>> Macintosh Trainer
>> Blind Access Training
>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 12:09 PM, barbandzoe at comcast.net wrote:
>>> 
>>> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.  
>>> 
>>> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.  but the reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools don't let you just take the dog and run.  I think with all schools there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
>>> 
>>> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have  guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.  They get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right or forward.  the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person waiting to go.  
>>> How I know that the people on this list are probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs.   But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be responsible for this dog.  
>>> I say this because when I talk to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem.  So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK.  I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in what they are doing.  
>>> 
>>> As I look at the  things people say and have said about their best and not so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
>>> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to.   
>>> I think most of the schools are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.  there are a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very happy in their choice.  so I think you need to look at what they offer and see which one feels right for you.  
>>> 
>>> Barb 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> ----- Original Message -----
>>> 
>>> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net> 
>>> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org> 
>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM 
>>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
>>> 
>>> Matt, 
>>>       Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning 
>>> Fidelco and my blog post at 
>>> 
>>> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
>>> 
>>> Fraternally yours, 
>>> Marion Gwizdala 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message----- 
>>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens 
>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM 
>>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
>>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
>>> 
>>> Hello everyone. 
>>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an 
>>> inquiry. 
>>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide 
>>> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
>>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
>>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who 
>>> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them. 
>>> Thank you. :) 
>>> 
>>> Matthew Dierckens 
>>> Macintosh Trainer 
>>> Blind Access Training 
>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com 
>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________ 
>>> nagdu mailing list 
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________ 
>>> nagdu mailing list 
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/solsticesinger%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 20
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 20:36:59 -0500
> From: Shannon Dyer <solsticesinger at gmail.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] speaking of ownership
> Message-ID: <7E76F58C-6B2F-4A1E-A202-A777E2ACD498 at gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
> 
> Hi, Sherry.
> 
> GDF offers the choice of ownership or custody upon graduation. This was the case in 2005 when I got my Caroline dog, and was still the case in the summer of 2012 when Acelet and I were matched.
> 
> Shannon and the Acelet
>> On Jan 26, 2014, at 8:00 PM, "Sherry Gomes" <sherriola at gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Hi everyone,
>> 
>> I'm currently looking at schools. Considering retiring my current guide, and
>> since I need a kind of special dog, I thought I'd start working on applying
>> now. One of the things on my list of reasons for choosing a particular
>> school next time is ownership at the time of graduation. What other schools
>> beside TSE give ownership right away?
>> 
>> Sherry
>> 
>> 
>> So hold this moment fast,
>> And live and love as hard as you know how,
>> And make this moment last,
>> Because the best of times is now.
>> --La cage aux Folles
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/solsticesinger%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 21
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 20:43:18 -0500
> From: Shannon Dyer <solsticesinger at gmail.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog
> Message-ID: <C9D54FA7-95DF-4515-8484-954F2AE4F219 at gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252
> 
> I struggle with the idea of really young children having service dogs. I was seventeen when I got my first guide, and, at times, it was overwhelming. A six-year-old cannot act as a competent handler for a service dog, and I don't see how it's reasonable to expect a classroom aid to be responsible for the dog.
> 
> Shannon and the Acelet
>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 1:24 PM, Buddy Brannan <buddy at brannan.name> wrote:
>> 
>> Umm. Yeah?I kinda think (and, sad to say, hope) they lose. It isn?t reasonable to expect a classroom aid to act as the dog?s handler. In all cases I?m aware of, it?s the responsibility of the disabled person to either handle, or provide someone who handles, his service dog. To expect more than this is unreasonable. 
>> --
>> Buddy Brannan, KB5ELV - Erie, PA
>> Phone: (814) 860-3194 or 888-75-BUDDY
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 12:53 PM, Ginger Kutsch <gingerKutsch at yahoo.com> wrote:
>>> 
>>> FYI. An interesting case where the parent's disability rights lawyer
>>> believes school districts should train classroom aides to handle service
>>> dogs in addition to all other duties they perform for their disabled
>>> student. 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Parent Sues School District Over Service Dog For Son With Cerebral Palsy
>>> 
>>> By Kathryn Schroeder, Sun, January 26, 2014
>>> 
>>> http://www.opposingviews.com/i/society/parent-sues-school-district-over-serv
>>> ice-dog-son-cerebral-palsy
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Anthony Marchante, 6, has cerebral palsy. He requires the assistance of his
>>> medium-sized terrier service dog, Stevie, to alert others to oncoming
>>> convulsions and to help calm him down.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Anthony's mother has filed a federal lawsuit against the Broward School
>>> Board, claiming discrimination because of too many barriers to gain approval
>>> for her son's service dog to be allowed on campus with him.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Anthony's mother, Monica Alboniga, was told by the district that she had to
>>> provide liability insurance for the dog and additional vaccinations that did
>>> not exist.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> The district later waived those requirements, but asked Albonigo to provide
>>> a handler for the dog since Anthony was not capable of serving as one.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> In the suit against the school district, Albonigo claims the district is
>>> "inflicting extreme hardship on her and violating the Americans with
>>> Disabilities Act and The Rehabilitation Act by implementing excessive
>>> procedural hurdles," reports the SunSentinel.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Albonigo wants the district to amend its policies and pay her legal fees.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> The school district declined to comment on the lawsuit.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> They do admit that they are discussing implementing a new service animal
>>> policy, but it would still require a handler to be provided and insurance.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> "There's not a lot of [school] districts that have a policy," said
>>> compliance director Dildra Martin-Ogburn to the SunSentinel. "Service
>>> animals have been around for a long time but it's just coming on board where
>>> they are coming to schools."
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> At this time, Stevie is the only service animal in the district.  
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Alboniga goes to school with Stevie each day acting as his handler; she is
>>> not allowed to help Anthony in any other way.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> "I have to be in complete silence all the time just looking at the dog. You
>>> always feel uncomfortable," said Alboniga.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Furthermore, adds Albonigo, Stevie does not eat or drink at the school and
>>> rarely does he need to go to the bathroom.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Matthew Dietz, a disability rights lawyer representing Alboniga, believes
>>> school districts should train classroom aides to handle service dogs.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> "When you are dealing with a seriously disabled child like Anthony, you're
>>> feeding, you're toileting, you're doing all these personal services," he
>>> said. "It would be no problem for that to be an additional duty."
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nagdu mailing list
>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/buddy%40brannan.name
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nagdu mailing list
>> nagdu at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/solsticesinger%40gmail.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 22
> Date: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 21:22:12 -0500
> From: Matthew Dierckens <matt.dierckens at me.com>
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID: <9B6597FD-62AF-43B4-B0E0-F994C1EB421A at me.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Hello Shanon. Nice to meet you. :)
> 
> Matthew Dierckens
> Macintosh Trainer
> Blind Access Training
> www.blindaccesstraining.com
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
> 
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 8:33 PM, Shannon Dyer <solsticesinger at gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Hi, Matt.
>> 
>> I'm Shannon. I'm working my third guide. All of my dogs have come from GDF. I've had fabulous experiences there. I wish you all the best in your search for the school that best meets your needs.
>> 
>> Shannon and the Acelet
>>>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 12:15 PM, Matthew Dierckens <matt.dierckens at me.com> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Hi Barb, Let us know how your Fedelco experience is.
>>> I'm waiting for someone to call me back today from them, as well as GDB and GDF.
>>> Matthew Dierckens
>>> Macintosh Trainer
>>> Blind Access Training
>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com
>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>>>> On Jan 27, 2014, at 12:09 PM, barbandzoe at comcast.net wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm.  
>>>> 
>>>> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco.  but the reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools don't let you just take the dog and run.  I think with all schools there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
>>>> 
>>>> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have  guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go.  They get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right or forward.  the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person waiting to go.  
>>>> How I know that the people on this list are probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs.   But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be responsible for this dog.  
>>>> I say this because when I talk to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem.  So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK.  I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in what they are doing.  
>>>> 
>>>> As I look at the  things people say and have said about their best and not so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
>>>> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to.   
>>>> I think most of the schools are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong.  there are a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very happy in their choice.  so I think you need to look at what they offer and see which one feels right for you.  
>>>> 
>>>> Barb 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> ----- Original Message -----
>>>> 
>>>> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net> 
>>>> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org> 
>>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM 
>>>> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
>>>> 
>>>> Matt, 
>>>>      Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning 
>>>> Fidelco and my blog post at 
>>>> 
>>>> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
>>>> 
>>>> Fraternally yours, 
>>>> Marion Gwizdala 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message----- 
>>>> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens 
>>>> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM 
>>>> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
>>>> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
>>>> 
>>>> Hello everyone. 
>>>> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an 
>>>> inquiry. 
>>>> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide 
>>>> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
>>>> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
>>>> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who 
>>>> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them. 
>>>> Thank you. :) 
>>>> 
>>>> Matthew Dierckens 
>>>> Macintosh Trainer 
>>>> Blind Access Training 
>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com 
>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________ 
>>>> nagdu mailing list 
>>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________ 
>>>> nagdu mailing list 
>>>> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
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>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> nagdu mailing list
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>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
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>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
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> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 23
> Date: Tue, 28 Jan 2014 05:30:34 +0000 (UTC)
> From: barbandzoe at comcast.net
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List,    the National Association of Guide Dog Users"
>    <nagdu at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question
> Message-ID:
>    <844157109.1359256.1390887034294.JavaMail.root at comcast.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
> 
> I understand what you mean, but there is a difference between just trying to figure out were 8th street is, and just not having? a clue.? he needs a sighted guide along with his?dog?so he gets to were he needs to go. 
> I am not trying to make fun of a blind guy, but he really just doesn't get it. 
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> 
> From: "Star Gazer" <pickrellrebecca at gmail.com> 
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org> 
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 12:23:53 PM 
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> One word for you, Barb, and that is GPS. 
> It's everywhere now and most of its users are sighted. 
> I say this only because when someone who can see pauses to figure out where they are, and what they need to do next, it's regarded as normal. Yet, you don't seem willing to give these men the same latitude. Why is that? 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of barbandzoe at comcast.net 
> Sent: Monday, January 27, 2014 12:10 PM 
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> HI everyone, I hope you and your dogs are staying warm. ? 
> ?? 
> I have not gotten my dog yet, and I am also looking at Fidelco. ?but the reason I am sending this is because, everyone talks about ownership, and Yes I do think it is nice to have the ownership, but I also see why some schools don't let you just take the dog and run. ?I think with all schools there should be a time of about a year, on your first dog, before you have ownership, because this way the school can make sure you know how to handle a dog, both as a guide and as a pet. 
> ?? 
> I say this because I have been watching a couple of guys in my city who have ?guide dogs, and they don't seem to know how to travel by themselves, and then they have to tell this poor confused dog which way to go. ?They get off the bus and stand there just trying to decide if they should go left, right or forward. ?the dog is just standing looking around and then at his person waiting to go. How I know that the people on this list are probably some of the better dog users, because to me you wouldn't be on a list like this if you didn't care about your dog and helping other with theirs. ? But I see this and I think to myself, why did they give these guys a dog, because to me he looks like he needs a bit more O&M training before he can be responsible for this dog. I say this because when I talk to the schools, they tell me time and time again, that I need to walk and work these dogs almost every day to keep their skills sharp, No problem. ?So I think, does the school know how the guy travels and is this still OK. ?I have also seen some very good dog users and the dogs seem so much happier and confident in what they are doing. ? 
> ?? 
> As I look at the ?things people say and have said about their best and not so best guide dog school, It looks to me that you find a school with the kind of dog you want and the kind of training you can do, plus if you want to travel a long way from home or stay nearby. 
> I chose Fidelco because I wanted a GSD, and if I were to take four weeks off work, I wouldn't have job to come home to. I think most of the schools are very good, we mostly near about them when things go wrong. ?there are a lot of people out there that have guide dogs from all the schools and are very happy in their choice. ?so I think you need to look at what they offer and see which one feels right for you. ? 
> ?? 
> Barb 
> ?? 
> ?? 
> 
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> 
> From: "National Association of Guide Dog Users" <blind411 at verizon.net> 
> To: "NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users" <nagdu at nfbnet.org> 
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 5:09:49 PM 
> Subject: Re: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Matt, 
> ?? ? ? ?Please read my article in the April 2011 Braille Monitor concerning Fidelco and my blog post at 
> 
> Harnessup.wordpress.org 
> 
> Fraternally yours, 
> Marion Gwizdala 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Matthew Dierckens 
> Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 3:57 PM 
> To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users 
> Subject: [nagdu] Introducing myself, and a question 
> 
> Hello everyone. 
> I thought I'd come over here and introduce myself, and I have a bit of an 
> inquiry. 
> My name is Matt, and I am from Ontario Canada. I am hoping to get a guide 
> dog sometime in the future, my goal is to have one by the end of this year. 
> I've done extended research and spoken to various schools. 
> I came across this school called Fidelco. If there's anyone on this list who 
> have had experiences, good or bad with Fidelco, I'd like to hear about them. 
> Thank you. :) 
> 
> Matthew Dierckens 
> Macintosh Trainer 
> Blind Access Training 
> www.blindaccesstraining.com 
> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/blind411%40verizon.net 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
> nagdu mailing list 
> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org 
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/pickrellrebecca%40gmail.com 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________ 
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> nagdu at nfbnet.org 
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> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu: 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/barbandzoe%40comcast.net 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Subject: Digest Footer
> 
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> ------------------------------
> 
> End of nagdu Digest, Vol 106, Issue 27
> **************************************




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