No Bones About It: Guide Dogs for the Blind's Blog

A Poem for Peggy

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

by Mari Casanova

Like all puppy raisers, when that little pup goes off to school, you eagerly check the progress reports you receive by email each week and smile as you see their name and the phase they are in. Even more so, when it is your first pup! In our case, the first puppy we raised, Neeley, who was so awesome and loved by all, was career changed due to dog distraction in the eighth phase, (out of 10 in those days). We were disappointed, but happy that she joined our extended family.

We then joyfully began to raise Peggy. Perhaps because Neeley had not become a guide, I was very determined to do everything I possibly could to help her be successful. I saw her as valuable in so many ways and took my part in her training very seriously.
At the same time, we loved and enjoyed her while she was with us.

Inevitably, when she was old enough, she went off to her formal training and we began to watch her progress via the weekly emailed reports. We were ecstatic when we heard that she was “in class”, meaning that she was at the point where she was working with a blind person who could become her partner.

The experienced raisers in our raising group, BAARK (acronym for Brea Area Adult Raiser Klub) had told me how wonderful graduation was, and I looked forward to being able to proudly hand over the leash to her partner at graduation. I admit to getting choked up hearing the stories, reading the blog and even speaking to others about this wonderful program where I am so rewarded by having a small part. From her first puppy kisses we fell in love with her and now were just amazed at how much she had learned and what she could mean in the life of someone who is blind. How would I be able to speak from my heart, and actually get the words out?

My only hope was to “keep it light” as I said in my opening remarks at graduation. And in that regard, I decided to write a poem, “in the spirit of Dr. Seuss” in celebration of Peggy, her partner Michael, all the puppy raisers, breeders, trainers, well…. I guess all of GDB! I hope you enjoy it!

A “P” Litter Poem for Peggy

There once was a puppy named Peggy,
Who came from a P litter Pack.
Proud parents, Georgette and Flamenco-
8 pups -- both yellow and Black.

Some here at school
You might already know
Were Pueblo and Paris,
Persia, and Poe.
(Each of them precious to their last little toe.)

The “P” Litter Peeples
Raised them for you,
With patience, persistance,
And a promise, or two.

Oh, the places you’ll visit!
The people you’ll know!
You’ll make good working teams,
Wherever you go!

When the Puppy Truck comes,
You’ll go off to school.
They have playtime and walks,
And bubbles -- it’s cool!

Did I mention Pilates
And ice cubes and toys,
And cuddles, massages,
And pals to enjoy?

There’s walks and group play,
and a roommate. It’s true!
And more, there’s love,
Just waiting for you!

And the trainers!
Magicians! With tricks up their sleeves!
Propelling their prospects
With kibble and ease!

Eight levels of training
And skills to perfect-
No pressure!
The process produces the best!

And then comes the day when
Your partner you’ll greet.
With a sniff and wag
You will happily meet.

Together you’ll learn
To trust and to lead
With teamwork
You both will only succeed.

May you always be blessed
And continue to grow
And spread lots of smiles,
Wherever you go!

And now, cheers for you both,
And the other teams, too!
We’re proud as you graduate
From G D B School!

Career Change Therapy Dogs Touch Many Lives

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

by Kathy Featherstone, GDB Dog Placement Coordinator

As a Dog Placement Coordinator, I really enjoy the process of matching each career change dog's needs with that of an adopter. Some of our dogs have a great aptitude for another career such as therapy work.

Atlas, Shep, Hope, Arlo and Tansy are five wonderful examples of career change dogs that have created new friendships within their own communities in collaboration with their adopters. As Atlas’s adopter Mary said, ”We strongly believe that Guide Dogs for the Blind breeds their dogs to be of service and that if they can’t guide then they should have another job! We knew that we would be looking into therapy work when we adopted Atlas.”

Atlas (shown above, photo by Ron Webb)

Atlas is a yellow Lab that is the second career change dog adopted by Mary and Tom. He joined his new family while he was still recuperating from surgery and continuing with physical therapy. The family as well as their first career change dog, Tenaya welcomed him into their lives and their therapy volunteer work. Atlas is certified through Therapy Dogs International and is an active member in the local #220 Fresno Chapter. He has volunteered for the past four years and participates in multiple jobs from reading programs with young children to visiting nursing homes and Alzheimer’s patients. Atlas primarily works with young children in the “Tail Waggin Tutor” program, and the Fresno Library Reading program. He lies on his blanket and the children sit around him. One student said, “I like to read to him and he listens. I like to pet him.” Mary added, “Atlas provides a friendly, furry, cuddly and patient, non-judgmental listener with the purpose of encouraging the child to read out loud and gain confidence in his or her reading skills. He is accessible to all to pet and he seems to make it a point to turn so that he spends time with each child! It’s amazing!” Promoting literacy to students is a gift that Atlas and Mary are happy to share with children.

Shep

Black Lab Shep has been accompanying his adopter Tammie at her place of work, an assisted living community for seniors. Tammie says Shep’s job description includes ”providing comfort to residents, staff and families; providing in-room visits with residents; being the walking group leader, listener, community greeter, welcome committee chairman and foot warmer.” Tammie remembers one resident who spoke little and did not participate in activities. As she passed Tammie’s office, “Shep poked his head out and a large smile spread across the woman's face as she reached out to pet him. Shep moved closer and he promptly sat on her feet. To everyone’s surprise, she spoke up and said, "You can warm my feet every day!" A new friendship was formed. Tammie feels fortunate to share her job with Shep and believes that he is happy to have a job that he can go to daily and form new friendships. “With Shep at my side, I feel like I can accomplish even more for my residents.”

Hope

Hope, a yellow Lab, now lives in Nevada and works a few times a month at a long-term care facility. Melinda, Hope’s adopter, describes the purpose of Hope’s visits as: “to promote physical and emotional benefits to residents. Hope participates in meet-and-greet activities with large groups and individual visits with residents at long term care, spending between 5 to 30 minutes with each individual.” One resident loves to hold her leash while being pushed in a wheelchair as they walk around the facility. She loves to whisper to Hope as they share this one-on-one time together. Both are content and happy. Another resident loves seeing Hope and scratching her behind her ears because she reminds him of his dogs back in his cowboy days. Hope has made many friends over the past year, and residents look forward to her visits. As Melinda said,“When the residents smile at Hope, I know she’s made a difference in someone’s life."

Arlo

Another dog with a new career is black Lab Arlo, now living in the East Bay (east of San Francisco). His adopter, Denise, said,“Since adopting Arlo, we have been involved with The Friendship Foundation, making 17-18 visits each month to various facilities including skilled nursing facilities, senior homes, adult and adolescent acute psychiatric facilities, and others." Denise spoke of a recent visit to a youth center in which “Arlo was taking treats from the kids, but one young girl was afraid. She was encouraged to try to give Arlo a treat but remained hesitant. After more encouragement from the staff, she was able to give Arlo a treat. The young girl was overjoyed with her achievement!” Denise’s next adventure with Arlo is with K-9s for Care, an outreach program for seniors at a neighborhood church.

Tansy

Tansy is a Golden Retriever now living in Montana and going to work full-time with her adopter Carly to a long term care facility. Carly said,"The first thing that is noticeable when Tansy comes to work is that everyone instantly smiles." Pearl, a former school teacher said, "Tansy is the best dog I ever met! She is just wonderful….so loving.” These words may seem ordinary – but the love on Pearl’s face and the contentment in her eyes when she is petting Tansy is wonderful beyond words or description. Pearl is 102 years young.

Carly also shared a particularly poignant day at work:“One day, Joanie, a resident, had a serious and rapid decline. Tansy went into Joanie’s room on her own and put her head up on Joanie’s hand – for several minutes, and then laid at the side of her bed. Joanie really liked Tansy and Tansy visited her often – but this last visit truly touched each staff member and gave us an appreciation of Tansy’s depth and complexity. Tansy is a tribute to herself and all those who helped her become her best.

Atlas, Shep, Hope, Arlo and Tansy’s adopters are so grateful to the puppy raisers for allowing them the gift of a career change dog with the capacity to enrich their communities.

Snapshots!

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Raiser Amber May with Chloe

Don't we have the cutest dogs in the whole wide world?

Check them out here

and on

our Group Photo Pool!

Newshounds

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

GDB CEO Paul Lopez and puppy

GDB Names New CEO and Celebrates Holiday Luncheon.

Training the Perfect Puppy!

GDB Alumnus and 9/11 survivor Michael Hingson shares his "vision" with the world. (He will be the featured speaker at this year's Pinot & Pups in Portland.)

Puppy delivery to Tulare County, California!

Auto relay transports K9 Buddy to Texas boy

College students (future veterinarians) volunteer to raise GDB puppies

Say hello to our new Pirate Puppies! (pg. 3)

El Cerrito Pups tour fire station

Puppy Pilots take on new collars

Polar Vision makes it home safe and sound!

GDB Alumna Lauri Evans assists students

Finding a four-legged companion for a blind dog

Breeder's Digest for November 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:50:00 +0000

Litter Announcements

Labrador Retrievers

New Breeders

Golden Retrievers

Leigh – raised in CA
Nigella – raised in UT

Lab/Golden Cross

Trumpet – raised in OR

Amongst the Towering Redwoods

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Enjoying nature with your best friends is something to be thankful for! One of the cherished outings for GDB students in training is a trip to the magnificant redwoods at Muir Woods with their canine cohorts. Above, Chris Divers with black Lab Sirius. Below, Cecilia von Beroldingen with yellow Lab Krissa, Yonah with his black Lab guide and Jeff Harrington with yellow Lab Lucas.

Breeder's Digest for October 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:33:00 +0000

Litter Announcements

Labrador Retrievers

10/5/11 Pike x Catina – 5 males, 2 females – litter letter “L”
10/8/11 Jenkins x Suzanne – 4 males, 2 females – litter letter “K”
10/9/11 Curt x Charity – 3 males, 5 females – litter letter “P”
10/14/11 Hurley x Dorena – 3 males, 2 females – litter letter “R”
10/17/11 Dylan x Paulina – 3 males, 5 females – litter letter “T”
10/18/11 Pike x Carlita – 3 males, 3 females – litter letter “S”
10/19/11 Alonzo x Norma – 2 males, 3 females – litter letter “W” (no pictures available)
10/23/11 Atrus x Darice – 3 males, 2 females – litter letter “V”
10/27/11 Pike x Bettymae – 3 males, 5 females – litter letter “B”
10/28/11 Carnegie x Dolly – 5 males, 2 females – litter letter “D”
10/31/11 Jay x Heloise – 1 male – litter letter “Z” (included in pictures with “Pandy” litter; raised by “Pandy”)
10/31/11 Piedmont x Pandy – 1 male, 4 females – litter letter “F” (Plus 1 Jay x Heloise pup)

Golden Retrievers

Labrador/Golden Retriever Cross

10/22/11 Medford x Pilar – 4 males, 4 females – litter letter “A”

New Breeders

Labrador Retrievers
Abigail – raised in CA
Cava – raised in CA
Juleen – raised in CA
Kiva – raised in WA
Tally – raised in CA
Yoga – raised in CO

A Graduation of Epic Proportions!

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Once upon a time, there was a little yellow Lab puppy named Epic.

He enjoyed conversing with his sister, black Lab Estee.

And then he grew up! He was Mr. February on GDB's wall calendar...

and before we knew it, he graduated as a Guide Dog.

Here he is on the graduation stage with his new lifelong partner, April Smith

and his puppy raiser, Darleene Decrescenzo.

They are joined here by Epic's mom Belle, a retired GDB breeder

(wearing the red collar) and his sister Estee, a new breeder.

Epic and Estee were members of Belle’s litter,

home-schooled by Ken and Nancy Schopp.

And that's the beauty of GDB graduations...

They bring together the whole family!

This one was especially moving, as it was the last graduation in
our dormitory on the San Rafael, California, campus.

A New Leash on Life

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

by Donna Matern

Shortly before he died, my husband Lee picked out a sweet little Cardigan Welsh Corgi pup for me, in hopes that she would bring me comfort and companionship. Terra has turned out to be all of that and more. She was a star in dog obedience and agility classes, and a fine companion on hikes, working in the yard, riding in the car to visit grandchildren, snoozing by the fire at night: all the attributes we love in our pet dogs.

So it was with a little trepidation that I decided to co-raise a Guide Dog puppy named Visa this past October. After all, Terra is now over 14 years old. I wondered if the new pup would just be too hard on her. I pictured rough play, feeding time issues, fights over toys, competition for my attention, etc. What I didn’t count on at all was this: little old Terra has an entirely new leash on life!

She has been remarkably healthy for most of her life, but in the past year Terra has definitely slowed down. Before Visa arrived on the scene, it was all Terra could do to accompany me down our country lane to the mailbox. She’d make several stops along the way, and on cold mornings she hopped with her two back feet as one, as if it hurt to do a normal trot. Her eyes are clouded with cataracts and her hearing is just about gone. Despite all of these age-related issues, though, Terra never fails go greet me at the door with a wagging tail and happy dance. How could I inflict a squirming mass of Lab puppy on my dear old girl?

At first, Terra tried to ignore the pup, but as anyone knows about Labs, they are not to be denied. So Terra did a little play-fighting, fake-biting, and twirling around for a few minutes, then retired to a neutral corner. Visa wasn’t having any of that. Soon Terra figured out that she could use her doggie-door to make a hasty retreat outside, while Visa stood at the sliding door, baffled by the sudden disappearance of her playmate.

Sparring between the two dogs lessened, while at the same time I often found them just hanging out together, trailing around the yard as a pair, lapping water together, walking down to the mailbox with me in tandem. I left Terra home when I took the pup on longer walks, but then after an experimental outing, I realized that Terra was up to the greater distances, and seemed to relish them. She resumed her old habit of “FRAPping” around the house; “Frantic Rapid Activity Periods”) daring Visa to catch her.

My property is a graveyard for 14 years’ worth of Terra’s treasures: mummified gophers and moles, lizards, snakeskins, parings from the horses’ feet, bones, decayed food from the compost bin, etc. Visa’s arrival here has prompted Terra to resurrect many of these items and basically display them to the pup, but only when Visa is in her crate or on a tie-down. The poor puppy does somersaults and cartwheels at the end of her tie-down, while Terra nuzzles her prized possessions in tantalizing proximity to Visa,but juuuust out of reach.

This morning I was working with Visa on the basketball court, away from all distractions like leaves, sticks and grass. What I didn’t count on was Terra, parading back and forth behind the fence, with an entire ancient, petrified squirrel carcass in her mouth.

My fears that a Lab puppy would be the end of my old corgi have certainly disappeared. Now I’m worried that the old timer is just a little too much for the baby!

Visiting a Guide Dog School in Italy

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

by Annie Doris, Belvedere, CA, raiser of Weslia

Cars, mopeds, and bicycles buzz throughout the city of Florence, Italy. They whiz through stop signs and traffic lights, and they don’t stop for pedestrians. Even for a sighted person the roads are treacherous, and Italy must be one of the most stressful and difficult places for a working guide. One afternoon, we saw a blind woman and her guide dog walking down the narrow crowded cobblestones of Via Corso, and we were surprised and interested to discover that there was a guide dog school nearby.

One day after school, my friend Giuliana and I rang the bell of the Scuola Nazionale Cani Guida per Ciechi di Firenze-Scandicci (National School of Guide Dogs for the Blind in Florence-Scandicci, Italy) and we waited outside the large gate. The lush green plants of the courtyard and the big yellow villa that circled it looked beautiful and refreshing in the hot afternoon. Just as we were buzzed inside, the little padded feet of two Golden/Labrador retrievers rushed to greet us along with their trainers — Ludovica, Soro, and Massimo.

Over a cappuccino, they eagerly asked us questions about how guide dogs are trained in America. They were surprised to learn that Guide Dogs for the Blind has around 300dogs on the San Rafael campus, because their Scuola holds less than 50 dogs at any time, and they “graduate” roughly 25 dogs per year. The Florence Scuola has ten breeders that live in the countryside until they are ready to give birth. They used to use only Labs, but now they also use Goldens because they have found them to be the most obedient and least distracted dogs.

Since 1995, volunteer families around Florence have raised 267 puppies. Much like our program in the US, a puppy in Italy must learn five basic things: to eat at fixed times in his bowl, to do his business outside of the living space, to walk on a leash at the correct gait, to behave politely in public spaces and vehicles, and to not be distracted by city noises. They must be able to respond to the commands “avanti” — forward, “indietro” — backward, “sinistra” — left, and “destra” — right. “ [A puppy] must act like a member of the family, [like] a little ‘bambino’ who is educated and well behaved.”

At 4 months, the puppies are placed with families for socialization and they return to the Scuola kennel every month for a week to be examined and evaluated. At the age of 10-12 months, they are sent to the Scuola to be evaluated as guides and breeders.

The Scuola di Cane Guida program started after World War I when many injured blind veterans came home from the war and needed both guidance and companionship. Dorothy Harrison Eustis, an American woman, played a huge role in helping the guide dog program flourish in both Europe and the US. While working in Switzerland, she and Aurelio Nicolodi founded the Scuola in Florence-Scandicci in 1929; Mrs. Eustis also founded the Seeing Eye program in the US.

While we discussed the history of the Scuola and its program, trainer Soro brought in Lana, a frisky puppy, who surprisingly jumped up on the conference table! Soro explained that Lana’s behavior was because she was not wearing her working harness and was considered a “normal” dog without it. Once he put the harness on her, she transformed into a guide dog and quickly obeyed the commands he issued.

Before we helped feed the dogs, we toured the campus. Picture a bright ochre-colored villa surrounding a garden shaded by cypress trees and green leafy bushes. We walked through the many winding gravel pathways of the garden and saw an overpass of stairs used for training the dogs. There was also an amphitheater where the guide dogs were presented to their new blind owners. We walked inside the villa and observed the dorms of the visually impaired who stayed there for around two weeks while working with their dogs.

We walked to the kennel kitchen on the other side of the campus and loaded the food into the bowls and walked down to the kennel. The dogs howled as they heard the food slosh in their bowls. Just like our guide dogs in the kennels, they stood up on the fence and waited eagerly as we dished each one his meal. They ate feverishly and licked every last drop in less than a minute.

Italian guides must be super dogs because they face such stressful conditions in helping their owners navigate around the city. They might be surprised to come to California where drivers stop for pedestrians. Although the methods of training in Italy might be slightly different, both Italian and American guide dogs are loved and both guide dog groups want to raise the best possible dogs.

Now, That's the Spirit!

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

by GDB Alumna Sharon Ruttan

At St. Alban's the Martre Anglican Church here in Hamilton, Ontario, Forester is much loved. He even has a blue scarf that matches our choir robes -- made by a member of our congregation.

He lays quietly on his own blanket during our choir practices, as well as, during our services. He is the only one allowed to sleep during our minister's homily. Although there are times that I have to wake him up as he starts to dream and run in his sleep which has caused, on more than one occasion, giggles from those in the choir who are aware of his muted yips....he takes me quietly both down the aisle and back as we process and recess before and after services.

He is a much loved member of our congregation and his birthday is even remembered in our bulletin!

Party Time!

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

by Chris Sobchik

There was Whitney and Anchorage, Othello and Serenade, Columbus and Lana…

No--Santa does not have a new team of reindeer; these are working Guide Dogs and puppies in training who attended the 27th annual Puppies 2 Partners Holiday Luncheon held in Anaheim in December. Puppy Raiser families hosted 28 working teams and shared a traditional holiday meal together. The planning was done by North Orange County puppy raising club Puppies 2 Partners with help from VIP3 of South County and BAARK Brea adult raisers.

This year’s theme was Jingle Bones. Graduate Dan Haley and his band entertained as guests arrived. Tina Wilson with her Guide Dog Donovan (shown above)entertained the group with Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and The Christmas Song on her guitar. George Cassell and his yellow Lab Guide Dog Amigo sang a duet.

Santa posed for pictures with working teams and guests took home their photographs in painted frames adorned with dog biscuits. The holiday feeling was enhanced by “gifts” of door prizes won by lucky graduates. The luncheon offers local working teams the chance to visit with friends and show their appreciation to the volunteers who raise the puppies who later become Guide Dogs. They often share stories of how their guides help them each day and how much the work of the puppy raisers has meant in their lives.

Puppy raiser Katie Irving looks forward to the event each year. She said,“At the party we hear and see exactly how the puppies we raise help others lead more independent lives. It is great to see the working teams in action and learn more about the graduates as guide dog users.” Jaclyn Bigley added, “It’s amazing to see so many dogs and puppies in one place. Just about every table has a dog underneath and puppies sleeping around them!” Linda Becker, a GDB OAR Ambassador and regular at the event said, “ I look forward to this event each year. I see so many friends and I love the opportunity to tell the puppy raisers how much their work has changed my life.”

Newshounds!

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Father Pat with Pace and Brandon Burris,

executive director of the Louisiana State Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs.

Father Pat Mascarella’s Guide Dog, Pace, was named Service Animal of the Year by the Louisiana State Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs. The event was covered on WBRZ-TV, and The Catholic Commentator (page 3)

Puppy Zaffino honors his namesake on TV

Student Teacher Senses When Children Need Help

Riding That K9 Buddy Train -- GDB volunteers spent their New Year's weekend bringing a wagging bundle of love to a young boy who is rapidly losing his vision. The story crossed several states and was picked up by many news outlets: CNN, KTVU in the SF Bay Area (FOX), DFW in Texas (CBS),WFAA (ABC), WFMY,KXTV(ABC) in Sacramento,KCAL(CBS)Orange County, WISH TV in Indianapolis and in San Diego.

Getting a New Guide Dog: Thomas Hicks

GDB Alumnus George Blackstock helps others

Riding that K9 Buddy Train! Part 5

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:55:00 +0000

Zach Thibodeaux and his brand new K9 Buddy, Natura, steppin' out

At the end of a very long journey, it was, as Sandi Alsworth said in the following interview, a story about one dog and one boy. One story that touched the hearts of thousands of people. One story that shows what the power of our partnerships can accomplish.

To all of the people who give their time, talent and treasure in support of our mission, we thank you! In celebration of cooperation and generosity, Happy New Year, everyone!

CNN

KTVT-TV (CBS)

We will be posting more photos of Zach and Natura on our Flickr site.

Snapshots!

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Our thanks to everyone for submitting your photos!

Here are some more:

Yellow Lab Guide Dogs Junebug and Jules are the best of friends!

Amada Stephens and black Lab Guide Dog Nacho

The San Rafael-based Marin Puppy Raising Club visited the Novato Fire District's Station 65 in the Hamilton section of Novato, California in November. The fire fighters and paramedics were very accomodating and the pups were able to experience many new sights, sounds and smells. The pups were able to visit the fire trucks, walk through the back of an ambulance, sniff the fire fighting clothing and equipment, and listen to the sirens.

Don't forget to send us your holiday photos!

Christmas Company

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

by Heidi Sanders, GDB Breeder Custodian and Foster Care Provider

Ryka, Suzanne, Nessa (The Sanders Girls) and guest Pluto

This year our Christmas was slated to be quiet with two family members away. Ah, but the quiet idea didn’t last for long. Our holiday plans soon took on a brightness and glow when we received a call from Rebecca Hornick, foster care coordinator at GDB. An active guide, Pluto, needed a place to stay over the Christmas weekend; Rebecca asked if we’d be interested. Pluto had been our foster care guest twice before while our active breeder Suzanne was at GDB caring for her special “K” litter—Kyle, Keith, Kearney, Kellogg, Kristin, and Katrina born October 8, 2011. This time was a little different as Suzanne is now home, so it would mean a four-dog Christmas guest list, and, of course, we said yes. This year there was room for one more. Rebecca makes each foster care assignment sound so appealing--who can say no. Pluto’s human partner would be away for a few days, so it was a good match.

Pluto arrived and there was excitement in the air. Suzanne loved her new guest. It must be that likes attract. The Lab pair is similar in color, one bigger, one petite. Over the weekend we walked two by two, the two Labs, then the two Goldens. Suzanne's and Pluto’s gait was in sync and Suzanne was a flirt; this took some dog managing from our “foster care” tool bag of tie downs, crates, and treats, but all and all it was a wonderful holiday weekend, and never dull! What’s amazing to me is how the training of each dog from GDB allows a group of four dogs to meet, greet, and get along and spend a weekend together, and there’s nothing quite like having a Guide Dog in our midst. They are so special.

That night all became peaceful, with our Christmas tree lights on, the house warm and cozy, and the dogs tired after a busy day. I had to smile as I set up their doggie beds and each one took their place. “It was the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” Santa would be coming soon, and I’m sure the dogs would sleep through his trip down the chimney. Good night Ryka, Good night Suzanne, Good night Nessa, and Good night Pluto. All is well.

Riding That K9 Buddy Train! Part 4

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 23:20:00 +0000

Three Dog Night: Natura, Friday and Carnival

From Bonnie and Steve Sloane: Our drive [from Calabasas, CA, to Palm Springs, CA] was smooth and easy. After dropping Carnival off at our son's house, we hit the road for Palm Springs.

On the Road Again...(Natura and Friday)

The drive was quick and easy as there was no traffic. Friday and Natura were perfect in the back of our car.

Hey, move over!

They curled up and slept the entire way...not even a peep from either of them.

That's not a "peep" -- it's a yawn...

We made one pit-stop along the way for relieving and a short walk and then arrived at our meeting place (McDonalds off of I-10 freeway) at 11:00.

Natura with Steve Sloane

Randy was there waiting and the pups had a great time meeting his career change dog, Ocho. Again, some water and walking around and at 11:30 Leg 5 began.

Natura with Randy Glover

Friday was quite perplexed--wondering why all her buddies were disappearing. But, we took her for a nice walk and lunch break in Palm Springs before we headed back to Calabasas where we picked up Carnival and returned home.We were amazed at how quickly the day passed. It was such a special day, and yet it's already over. We will remember this experience as a high point of our partnership with Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Steve and Bonnie Sloane with Natura

We wish Natura and Zach the best; we know they'll be great friends. And most of all, how wonderful it is for Natura to have found such a special "forever home!"

Co-pilot and pilot

From Randy Glover (at 2 a.m.): Puppies are asleep, I am not....it really is a dog's life.

You're getting sleepy...very sleepy...

Natura is such a good girl. She and Ocho had the same papa...Tiberon...

Yay, New Mexico!

From Sandi Alsworth: Randy and I left Mesa this am at 7:00.We are currently in Tucson stopping to relieve Natura an will be on our way again shortly. Lone Star State here we come!

From Beth and Dave Adams (Natura's puppy raisers): Woohoo! Can’t wait - Puppy Train! We’re ready and waiting here in Texas! Be Safe! Zach and Natura’s Dream Team – making this happen! You’re all the BEST!

Check out the map to trace Natura's journey! San Rafael, CA --Mountain View -- San Luis Obispo -- Calabasas -- Palm Springs --Mesa, AZ -- Odessa, TX -- Dallas and Lewisville, TX.

Riding That K9 Buddy Train! Part 3

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:19:00 +0000

Carnival and Friday join Natura's Big Adventure

From Sandi Alsworth: I received an email from Jack Brey this afternoon prior to “his turn” at the relay. He was at his appointed rendezvous point early because he was too excited to wait! This was accompanied by photos both him with a big grin on his face, and a picture of his car. I had to laugh.

Jack was head over heels waiting with excitement!

From Jack: We met Ursula Grunfeld about 2:30 p.m. and gave Natura a little "out-of-car" time and a little love. We did the photos and journal then got off about 3 p.m.

Unfortunately, we ran into heavy rush hour traffic (I was probably the only one in traffic who was happy) and didn't get to Steve and Bonnie's until about 7.

I wasn't sure of their address and drove by them a couple of times while they were jumping and waving at me. We finally made the connection.

Natura was a gem and slept the whole way except for one potty and water break. Natura fit in with Steve, Bonnie, and their pups right away.

Loved the whole experience. Thank you for letting me help. Tell Zack he's got a great "Buddy" and if he takes care of her she truly will be his best friend.

Bonnie and Steve Sloane wrote: We thought we'd give you an update for the end of Day One. Natura arrived here via Anne, Ursula, and Jack around 7 p.m. She was met and joyfully greeted by Carnival (our 18-month old career change pup) and Friday (our 5-month old puppy-in-training). So our household is now full of active female Lab puppies!!!!! They are learning to get along and are playing together with our toys. Natura ate her dinner with enthusiasm and doesn't seem at all bothered by her long driving trip.

Enough of this driving... a Lab's gotta' EAT!

The "girls" are enjoying this slumber party and we'll have more to tell you tomorrow morning.

This is one of the best New Year's activities we've ever participated in. We are so happy to be part of this and wish Zach and Natura a wonderful time together as Buddies!

Bonnie and Steve

Rise and Shine, Natura... more adventures await...

Christmas Love

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0000

by Warren and Claudia Wish, GDB puppy raising club leaders

Dogs and puppies from Guide Dogs for the Blind bring holiday cheer to children with special needs.

“Tis the season to be jolly….”

All puppy raisers for Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) know that nothing brings a smile to a person’s face faster than when a Guide Dog puppy enters the room. The puppies have a way of making hospital patients feel better and leave senior citizens with pleasant memories. Young children respond in amazement as the puppies in green jackets walk into a store. Whether young or old, all respond the same way – with smiles and cheer.

The puppies seem to be able to break through to people who are severely developmentally disabled . While most of the time, these are people seem locked inside, unable to communicate or respond to the world around them, something wonderous takes place in the presence of a Guide Dog puppy.

For the past 12 years during the holiday season, GDB puppy raisers in Carson City, Nevada, have taken their pups to visit a residential facility for people with severe mental retardation. We go to sing Christmas carols and to bring puppy cheer.

Even though most of us can’t carry a tune, we go each year just to watch the way our puppies respond to these special people and the way the residents respond back. You can see a slight awareness as a resident’s hand touches a puppy’s fur. A puppy kiss brings a reaction that can only be described as magical.

Some of the club’s career changed dogs, now certified as therapy dogs, also attend. Together puppy raisers and Guide Dog puppies are bringing the spirit of the holidays to a group of very special people.

Riding that K9 Buddy Train! Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 21:30:00 +0000

Already she's a celebrity! Before our yellow Lab K9 Buddy dog Natura left on the first leg of her journey, she decided to help us tell her tale (with wagging tail) to the world!

Raiser/driver Anne Touloukian drove in all the way from Lincoln, California, (north of Sacramento) to pick up Natura and drive her to Mountain View, California. But they stopped for a moment to talk with KTVU (FOX), and the news segment aired at noon!

Anne also brought Natura a surprise -- her fluffy Golden puppy Flurry -- to keep her company.

We can't wait to hear from Anne and find out what happened along the way. Look at this map of the trip...

Riding that K9 Buddy Train! Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 20:51:00 +0000

Meet Natura!

This spunky yellow Lab decided not to become a Guide Dog after all -- (she didn't like air travel), so she followed her nose to a new career -- as a K9 Buddy. As luck would have it, she's going to live with a very special young boy -- and just in time!

In recent months, Zach Thibodeaux's eyesight has deteriorated rapidly, the result of a condition called cone-rod dystrophy that will leave him mostly or totally blind. The 9-year-old from Lewisville, Texas, has been preparing for life without vision by learning to walk with a cane. He and his family applied to Guide Dogs for the Blind to get a K9 Buddy dog. Zach is about to be surprised when he soon gets his wish.

So, with Natura ready to become a K9 Buddy, and Zach needing one, the only problem became how to get her to Zach? GDB Community Field Representative Sandi Alsworth hatched a plan to create a “puppy train” of relay drivers (volunteer puppy raisers in several states) to transport the dog by car through each leg of her journey to Zach and his family. Thinking it would be a tough task, especially during the holidays, she was surprised by the outpouring of support from our puppy raising volunteers.

This morning, December 29, Natura started her journey to Zach. She'll arrive to surprise him on Sunday, January 1. Can you keep a secret? If so, we'll continue to bring you updates along the way contributed by members of our GDB Family -- people brought together, as so often happens here, through the shared love of a dog.

What is a K9 Buddy, you may ask? Find out! Watch this video to learn more!

Bianca Visits Our Soldiers Abroad

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0000

by Pamela Pospisil, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Class OR 195

My husband, Bill, and I decided to try Space-A travel with the military. "A" stands for "available”, which means we were going standby. Bill has a military retirement, and we are eligible to travel this way for free as long as there is room available. Because we are retirees, we are the lowest on the totem pole of people eligible to take the flight, so we have to be prepared to "hurry up and wait" for flights which we may or may not get on until the last minute. In October 2011 we wanted to try for a flight to Spain.

At the end of January 2011, Bianca, my Guide Dog, and I graduated from GDB at the Oregon campus. Bianca and I had done many things together, but this trip was to be our big adventure, and we didn't know exactly how it would work. Prior to the trip Bill and I made sure we had an international microchip put in Bianca and all papers in order. We were able to get on a C-17 cargo plane from McChord Air Force Base (AFB) in Tacoma, WA to Dover AFB in Delaware. We had a pad for Bianca to lie on, and I put cotton balls in her ears (which she left in during flight) because of the noise. She crawled up into a little ball and stayed that way the entire trip. She did this for every plane ride. We spent a great deal of time with the other passengers during this trip waiting for planes, flying, and seeing each other at the bases. Bianca made a huge impression on people with her great behavior, personality and general beauty. She had a calming effect on everyone around, and her presence was therapeutic. I got many many compliments on her.

The most touching thing was when soldiers came up to her and asked to just pet her. One soldier had come back from Afghanistan and was headed to Germany. He said he just needed to touch her and pet her. Coming back from Germany, our plane was full of soldiers who were just coming back from Iraq. Several of them came up and said they really wanted to pet her. They all said they missed their dogs at home. I heard a lot of comments of people talking about their dogs when they saw Bianca. When you think of the soldiers being away from home, you don't always think about how much they miss their pets.

It was obvious that the military people were not used to dealing with someone with a guide dog, but they treated us with a great deal of respect, and the trip was a huge success. That was mostly due to having Bianca with us, and what a great impression she made on everyone around her. By the way, we never made it to Spain, but Germany was great. The people there love their dogs and did not bat an eye about Bianca being in any public place.

Raising Emmy

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0000

by Kim Harney

In the fall of 2006, my roommate and I received my first baby Guide Dog Puppy -- a wrinkly, female, yellow Lab named, Emmy. My roommate had raised Emmy's dad. We could not have been more excited to raise a puppy that we got to help name and would remind of us of her dad, Simon.

I knew raising a Guide Dog puppy was going to take up a lot of time, a lot of patience and there would be many protocols for me to learn. What I didn’t know is that it would change my life.

Emmy was an amazing puppy (I can’t say that about every puppy!) She was beautiful, sweet, cuddly, funny and the most loyal dog I had ever had. She became my best pal and slept on the floor next to me most every night (Ok, we won’t tell anyone that I occasionally woke up with a furry foot warmer.) Emmy became the center of my world and had a following everywhere she went. Throughout her training she was an excellent ambassador for GDB and learned everything we threw at her like a pro. She was simply perfect.

In May of 2007, the day came when Emmy would go back to GDB for her formal training. It was then I realized how close we'd become. The 20-minute drive to the GDB campus seemed remarkably quick compared to the drive home, which I will always remember, felt like hours. In addition to dropping Emmy off that day, I left a large piece of my heart at GDB. For the next six months, I would go to bed every night wishing my phone would ring to say that Emmy was coming home --I truly believed she belonged with me and would come home.

In October of 2007, we got word that Emmy was excelling in her training and my dream of her coming home was beginning to look less realistic. Thanksgiving of that year, I heard the words I had been praying I would never hear:“Emmy is in class to graduate.” To say I was heartbroken would be putting it mildly.

How could a dog I put so much work into be going to live with someone else? Who could possibly need Emmy more than I did? Who else would tattoo her name on their own foot?

That following week, I got the answer to all of my questions when I spoke with Emmy’s new partner, Tim. Tim is from Missouri and is legally blind due to multiple sclerosis. Tim had fallen in love with Emmy in the short few weeks they had been together, and before our short conversation was over, I knew that Tim needed Emmy and that is why she would not be coming home to me.

Despite knowing how much Tim needed her, I knew that meeting Tim would forever be one of the hardest days of my life. My heart was breaking over a dog that I had become so attached to and never believed would leave me. Actually seeing her beside Tim made me realize what our hard work was all about. My feeling of heartbreak suddenly changed into a feeling of pride.

Many of our friends and family came with me to see Emmy graduate that day. Everyone knew how special she was to me and what a hard day it would be for me. I made it through the day because of Tim. I knew he loved her as much as I did and she was going where she was meant to be.

Emmy will forever be my “heart dog” and Tim will always be a part of my family. Tim and Emmy have an unbreakable bond and nothing in my life will ever compare to raising Emmy and seeing her bond with Tim.

We have raised 12 dogs since Emmy. Each are special in their own way. One, Emmy’s half-sister, came home to stay, and I am thankful every day that she chose to stay with us.

Raising Guide Dogs isn’t just about potty training, following protocol and socializing puppies. It’s a life changing and heartbreaking job. But Emmy and Tim serve as my daily reminder that my heartache is nothing compared to the life changing relationship these dogs form with their partners.

You Think You're Cold...

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:02:00 +0000

Here's the latest update from the Polar Vision Team. They have recently passed their half-way mark in their trek to the South Pole to raise awareness and support for Guide Dogs for the Blind and SightSavers International.

From Richard…………

We are currently doing well, we had our best day for mileage yesterday, clocking in at 18 miles!, we have had mixed weather with high winds, chilling temperatures and white outs, but despite this we are making good mileage each day.

Passing the half way point is a real boost to the morale of the team, we are now 4 days from our final re-supply point and most excitingly another day of rest. This also means we are all looking forward to a change of underwear!! We all think our old ones could probably walk to the pole by themselves : )

It’s amazing with the speed that the weather changes in Antarctica, one minute its bright blue sky then next minute it’s a white out and vice versa.

We are currently at 6220ft and still climbing, it’s noticeable to all the team and we are starting to feel the difficulties of climbing all day, every day. We have all come down with a dry cough which is common in this altitude and is caused by the dryness of the air – this is aggravating but not hindering progress

Thank you for the continued support its a morale boost every day to hear your messages and questions.

Keep them coming

Follow them on their blog and on Facebook!

A Traveling Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB)) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Raisers Tim and Betsy Hardie with Devon (GDB career change Golden), Mike Carpenter, black Lab Reese and Debi Mc Naughton

Guide Dog Reese is 11 1/2 years old and he still loves to travel! He lives in British Columbia with his partner Mike Carpenter. They recently traveled to Graeagle, California with Debi Mc Naughton to visit Reese's raisers, Tim and Betsy Hardie. Reese loves to cruise and has gone to Alaska and Mexico as well on many trips up island for hikes.

Despite his age, he's always ready to go!