[nagdu] Intro and Pondering a Second Guide

[Joe]

Hi,

Though I'm not new to NAGDU, I've been away and off the list for a while. My
first and only dog, Gator, was from The Seeing Eye. He passed away almost
three years ago, and now I'm sort of coming around to maybe, possibly
thinking I should go back for a second one.

My questions for those who have gone back, understanding of course each case
is different:

1. If you stayed away for a while after your first guide, what motivated you
to go back?

2. I'm still leaning German shepherd. I felt good with one then and still
confident I'd like one now, but my former trainer thought I could have also
done well with a golden retriever. Any thoughts on either breed from your
perspective?

3. For Seeing Eye graduates, any major changes since I attended class in
2004? I mean other than changes to the physical structure. I'm more
interested in changes to the training methods.

I've been following a few blogs. This evening I had my home visit. I'm still
on the fence and hope some interaction with this great group will trigger
some additional thoughts. Three years later I'm hesitating because as
awesome as Gator's work was, he was a sick dog. I fear a repeat of the old
incidents despite my logical brain that says every dog is different. I'm
hesitant about revisiting battles with restaurant owners. The education got
tiresome, and my experience in court with a particularly stubborn company is
not one I care to redo. All reasons for me to forget and call it good, but I
also remember the smooth travel and steadfast companionship.

Forgive the meandering note. Yet, I think you'll get it. Any feedback would
be welcomed.

Thanks,

Joe

--
Musings of a Work in Progress:
www.JoeOrozco.com/

Twitter: @ScribblingJoe