GUIDE DOG PUPPY
three times a week, he needs to be comfortable and well behaved on buses and trains. He also needs to respond well to the usual commands, have good recall when out for a walk and be able to concentrate on leading rather than being distracted by people, food or other dogs. At a year old he’s pretty good now, though still prone to the occasional lapse. When he first arrived at 6.5 weeks old it was a different story. Over the last year he’s naturally matured and responded well to his training; also of course he’s less cute than when he was a small puppy so people tend to be happier ignoring him than they used to be! When Indy first arrived our supervisor would visit fortnightly, now she’ll visit once a month to check his training and discuss any health or behavioural issues. So we’re well supported.”
This leads to the inevitable question: What’s it going to be like handing Indy, a beautiful dog and now part of their family, over to finish his training, possibly never to see him again? “He’s due to leave us in June so we are going to have to snap out of our denial and face the reality soon,’ she said. “We’ll certainly miss him, he’s got such a lovely personality and has become a huge part of our lives, but if he succeeds as a guide dog and improves someone’s life it will have been worth it.” Having helped Guide Dog Association in such a positive and committed way, would they do it again?
“This is something my husband and I have discussed many times. The answer seems to change depending on whether Indy has just been particularly cute or mischievous! I certainly wouldn’t rule it out in the future though we may take a break when Indy leaves us.” Abbie is hoping that when Indy finishes his year with them, they may still get a chance to see him once he is fully trained and paired with someone.
87 Dartmouth by the dart
0612.indd 2 19/06/2012 09:12 “He’s due to leave us in June so we
are going to have to snap out of our denial and face the reality soon.”
“When he leaves us he still has six months further training to complete, after this he will be matched to someone according to their individual needs and Indy’s abilities and personality,” she said. “At this point my contact details will be passed on to the person Indy is paired with, but it will be up to them if they want to get in touch. I very much hope they do, as it would be good to know that he is happy, settled and useful somewhere.” If anyone is interested in becoming a
puppy walker or volunteering for Guide Dogs for the Blind Association they
should contact the local office on 0845 3727407.• by Phil Scoble
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