I'm going to go to school for a guide dog next month i was wondering if anyone with expearience could tell me what it's like with a guid dog and the ups and downs. I greatly looking forward to reciving my new friend but i'm not quite sure what to expect.
2007-10-13 15:54:54 · 6 answers · asked by rose 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Congratulations! That is very exciting. Having a Guide Dog is a truly liberating experience, you will not regret it. I have raised 3 guide dog puppies so far and have been to one graduation. Don't get me wrong, the four weeks you are at Guide Dogs will be extremely tolling, both physically and mentally. You will be working from sun up to sun down, first with a instructor pulling the harness, and then finally with your dog. Most students become very soar and go through a roller coaster of emotions, but the end result is definetly worth it. You will get a companion who is devoted to you and who will essentially be your eyes. You will have a bond with the dog that no pet owner can have. Both you and your dog will rely on eachother, which is a very special and unique thing. Some things that I have heard students say are difficult:
1. Trusting the dog: this is a big one. You may have a very hard time putting your life in the dogs hands, but after the dog proves itself, this should become easier.
2. Getting the technique: there is more to guidework than simply following the dog. The handler must learn how to instruct the dog and keep the dog on track. You must learn to interpret what the dog is telling you.
3. Overall care of the dog: guide dogs still need food, water, and exercise (obviously). This is hard for anyone to keep up with.
I hope you have a great experience at school and develop a bond that will last a life time (and I'm sure you will).
Good luck!
2007-10-13 16:46:49 · answer #1 · answered by Majo 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have not have them personally, but I have had some experience with people who have had them, and I will say what I know in case no one else answers with experience.
Guide dogs are there to help you, and what they are trained to do depends on the person. A dog for the blind, for instance, would need to be more aware of possible dangers a person would have to see to know.
A dog to help out with moving things, etc, will be able to open doors, grab items you point at (or know a few words), pull you around if need be, and assist in many other ways.
The dog is not a pet- they need to be treated like working dogs- you can be very social and friendly with them, but most schools will tell you that others should not pet and play with your dog. Some can distinguish between work and play (such as a vest on or off), but not all dogs.
When you pick out your new friend- make sure that you get along completely- the best relationship will be with a dog that fits your personality. The trainers will help you pick what they think is the best one, but you need to analyze their personality as well.
The trainers will also help you adjust and bond with the dog at the school, and teach you the commands- and for the dog to know that your voice is the one to listen for. Most are very thorough in their training, both of you and the dog for responsibilites.
Good luck with your new pal!
2007-10-13 16:04:07 · answer #2 · answered by D 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Just relax and have fun. You'll have plenty of time to learn together and get used to each other.
I think the thing that will surprise you the most is how many people you meet in public don't understand that your dog isn't a pet - but is working! That's aways hard. Everyone wants to come up and pet the dogs.
Just enjoy the entire experience, ask questions, and have fun. The trainers will help you both.
Good luck to you and your new partner! I wish you both the best! Do you know what breed your new partner is?
2007-10-13 16:06:36 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
First of all, know that this dog will most likely be better behaved than most people are. For a short time, I was training a Hearing-Ear Dog. (Lost my hearing in 1995)
Training is very intense. But in the end... well worth it. Good luck
2007-10-13 16:02:17 · answer #4 · answered by SARswimmer95 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Learning how to train your dog will improve your life and hers, enhance the bond between you, and ensure her safety and it can be a lot of fun. Dogs are usually eager to learn, and the key to success is good communication. Your dog needs to understand how you’d like her to behave and why it’s in her best interest to comply with your wishes. Check here to learn how to train your dog properly https://tr.im/62892
2015-01-28 09:33:21 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Big piles of sh1t in your garden
2007-10-13 16:08:24 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 4⤋