OK, this is it: T-minus 5 days to class. We don't take the dogs out on routes this week. They rest up for match day while we do our last minute preparations for class. For the dogs, the only thing they do this week is get a teeth cleaning and visit the dorm.
Teeth cleaning is just what it sounds like. We check everyone's teeth and those who need it get the tartar scraped off, then everyone gets a brushing. Now, if you don't think it's important to accustom your dog to body and mouth handling, then let me invite you to a teeth cleaning session. Most dogs are great, they lay quietly while we work on their teeth. But there are always a few that turn a 10 minute teeth cleaning into a 30 minute struggle worthy of any Las Vegas pay per view. This is never good for anyone, especially the dog. So please. I beg you. Check your dog's teeth every day and brush their teeth every week. Please get them used to someone mucking about in their mouth.
We take the dogs to the dorm so that they become familiar with it. We put them on tie down in a student room, take them to the dining room, day room, feeding and busy areas. Speaking of the busy area, I hope everyone is relieving their dogs on different surfaces. The class busy area is covered with rocks. It's not a huge area and the rocks are easier to keep clean. Most dogs have no problem with this, but again, there's always a couple that Just. Don't. Like. Rocks. This makes the student's life just a little bit more frustrating and no one needs that.
So that's pretty much it. Training a string of dogs from start to finish. Well, almost finish. We still need to match the dogs and help them and their new person turn into a functioning guide dog team. I will try to continue the Trainer's Diary once we're in class to let you know how EveryDog is doing.
This is it. EveryDog's entire life has been leading up to this. The time, effort and support of over 300 people went into preparing this dog to be a guide dog. Thanks to everyone who is a part of that. But an extra big shout-out to all the puppy raisers - you are the best!
blue cape
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Trainer's Diary: Big City and Blindfolds
Last Friday, we completed our final week of working the dogs before class. On Monday, we went to Tampa to do city work. Tampa isn't Manhattan, but the downtown area is big city enough. Large buildings, 6 lanes of busy traffic, buses, crowded sidewalks, food vendors. The whole deal. If a dog can handle Tampa, he's probably good to go. Some dogs love the city and all the commotion. Some dogs just tolerate it. While we're there we teach the dogs how to go through revolving doors. We ride a 2 story escalator and a glass elevator. We walk over a drawbridge that is one long metal grate that vibrates with the passing traffic. We practice intelligent disobedience. It's a jam-packed and fun-filled day:
Caesar's Joy waits at a curb. Somehow, I managed to get a traffic-free moment.
Gilly works a revolving door.
Amsie and Katie wait for the elevator.
The last part of the week was blindfold walks. It's exactly what it sounds like. The trainers put on blindfolds and work the dogs. We always have another trainer spotting us, just in case (no one wants to break an ankle right before class. Or any other time, for that matter). If there is a final exam for guide dogs, this is probably it. Because, as much as we try not to, as a sighted person, it difficult not to "cue" the dog: subconsciously slowing down at curbs or leaning out of the way of obstacles. Once you are under blindfold, it's totally and completely up to the dog to keep you safe. And sometimes, dogs just fold under that pressure.
Also, your body language changes when you are blindfolded. Personally, I have a hard time keeping my balance when I'm blindfolded, so I tend to go reeling down the sidewalk like a drunken sailor. Also, my whole demeanor becomes more tentative. Naturally, the dog picks up on this immediately and it adds stress. I've seen dogs go a few yards with their blindfolded trainer and actually turn and look up at them as if to confirm it is the same person. This mimics what the dogs go through when they first start working with new students. Even though the students are comfortable travelling without vision, they can be very nervous and unsure about handling the dog. They have to learn how to follow the dog. All of this puts stress on the dog and a blindfold walk shows us how the dog will handle that stress.
So. One more week before class. Still lots to do. Stay tuned.
Unrelated Side Note: We love it when you comment on these posts, but please remember to identify yourself. It is our policy not to post anonymous comments. Thanks!
Caesar's Joy waits at a curb. Somehow, I managed to get a traffic-free moment.
Gilly works a revolving door.
Amsie and Katie wait for the elevator.The last part of the week was blindfold walks. It's exactly what it sounds like. The trainers put on blindfolds and work the dogs. We always have another trainer spotting us, just in case (no one wants to break an ankle right before class. Or any other time, for that matter). If there is a final exam for guide dogs, this is probably it. Because, as much as we try not to, as a sighted person, it difficult not to "cue" the dog: subconsciously slowing down at curbs or leaning out of the way of obstacles. Once you are under blindfold, it's totally and completely up to the dog to keep you safe. And sometimes, dogs just fold under that pressure.
Also, your body language changes when you are blindfolded. Personally, I have a hard time keeping my balance when I'm blindfolded, so I tend to go reeling down the sidewalk like a drunken sailor. Also, my whole demeanor becomes more tentative. Naturally, the dog picks up on this immediately and it adds stress. I've seen dogs go a few yards with their blindfolded trainer and actually turn and look up at them as if to confirm it is the same person. This mimics what the dogs go through when they first start working with new students. Even though the students are comfortable travelling without vision, they can be very nervous and unsure about handling the dog. They have to learn how to follow the dog. All of this puts stress on the dog and a blindfold walk shows us how the dog will handle that stress.
So. One more week before class. Still lots to do. Stay tuned.
Unrelated Side Note: We love it when you comment on these posts, but please remember to identify yourself. It is our policy not to post anonymous comments. Thanks!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Parades, Fireworks and Puppies (Oh My!)
Happy Canada Day. I have no idea what that is, exactly, but my calendar says July 1st is Canada Day, so.....Happy Canada Day.
My calendar also says that this Saturday is July 4th (yes, my calendar talks alot. I'm getting that checked out.) You know what the 4th means: parades and fireworks. You might think these would be excellent socialization opportunities for your puppies. And while the crowds might be good socialization, the noise would definitely not be a good thing. We do want dogs acclimated and socialized to noises, but a professional fireworks display with hundreds of people in attendance is just too much to ask of our pups. Yes, there are some dogs who could handle this with no problem, but why take the chance of ruining a dog? Because once a dog develops a fear of loud sharp noises, it is almost impossible to fix that.
Here's the bottom line: DO NOT take any puppy of ANY AGE to a professional fireworks display.
What about small fireworks in your neighborhood? Use common sense and monitor the dog. Start out at least 20 feet from the fireworks and watch the dog's reaction. If you see any negative reaction, take the dog home.
What about parades? If you want to sit on the front row, just feet from the passing bands and fire trucks and floats, then leave the dog at home. However, if you want to use this as a socialization exercise and are willing to make the dog your focus and priority, then please follow these guidelines: 1) stay at least 50 feet away from the parade. 2) Keep a close eye on your pup and if you see any signs of stress, especially from noise, then move farther away or leave.
Feeling guilty about leaving your pup home so you can enjoy the festivities? Don't! Staying at home occassionally is a good thing too.
Thank you for all the hard work you do to help give mobility and independence to people. We hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July.
My calendar also says that this Saturday is July 4th (yes, my calendar talks alot. I'm getting that checked out.) You know what the 4th means: parades and fireworks. You might think these would be excellent socialization opportunities for your puppies. And while the crowds might be good socialization, the noise would definitely not be a good thing. We do want dogs acclimated and socialized to noises, but a professional fireworks display with hundreds of people in attendance is just too much to ask of our pups. Yes, there are some dogs who could handle this with no problem, but why take the chance of ruining a dog? Because once a dog develops a fear of loud sharp noises, it is almost impossible to fix that.
Here's the bottom line: DO NOT take any puppy of ANY AGE to a professional fireworks display.
What about small fireworks in your neighborhood? Use common sense and monitor the dog. Start out at least 20 feet from the fireworks and watch the dog's reaction. If you see any negative reaction, take the dog home.
What about parades? If you want to sit on the front row, just feet from the passing bands and fire trucks and floats, then leave the dog at home. However, if you want to use this as a socialization exercise and are willing to make the dog your focus and priority, then please follow these guidelines: 1) stay at least 50 feet away from the parade. 2) Keep a close eye on your pup and if you see any signs of stress, especially from noise, then move farther away or leave.
Feeling guilty about leaving your pup home so you can enjoy the festivities? Don't! Staying at home occassionally is a good thing too.
Thank you for all the hard work you do to help give mobility and independence to people. We hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Check it Out
Heather Junqueira, our Breeding Manager, has caught blog fever! Check out the new breeding program blog Breed All About It. The link is on the right side of this page, under Recommended Links. Enjoy!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Trainer's Diary: The End is Near!
My, how time does fly. Seems like we just started working this string and now class is less than a month away. It's home stretch time for Everydog. So, let's get up to date: At this point in training, we are holding the dogs responsible for curbs and clearances. We are doing less and less work for the dog, trying to teach him to problem solve. We are working in busier locations, with more distractions. We are starting to get an idea of who will be ready for class and who won't. Not being ready for class is not a negative. The dogs all progress at different rates. Some dogs have a particular issue that needs more work (getting comfortable on escalators, for instance.) Some dogs just need more time to mature (Goldadors, anyone?) We have also inherited the pass back dogs from the trainers that went into class last week. We need to start working those dogs so we can become familiar with them, since they will also be eligible to be matched in our class.
Everydog will have to pass a few benchmarks in the coming weeks to be considered "class ready." Stay tuned!
Everydog will have to pass a few benchmarks in the coming weeks to be considered "class ready." Stay tuned!
Monday, June 22, 2009
June Class Matches
Congratulations and THANK YOU!
Alice 12K7 BlxGF co-raised by Marcia Werdenberg & Family and Cheryl Miller – Cocoa Beach, FL Area
Clarke 8M6 YLxGF raised by Susan & Raymond Souder - Hilton Head, SC Area - finished by Diona Boyle - Sun City, FL Area
Dalen 3B7 YlxGM raised by Ricardo Amaro - St.Pete, FL Area
Ellie 3F7 BLF raised by Maggie & Shea Glassman - Atlanta, GA Area
Emma 7H7 YLF raised by Juanita Ingram – Dothan, AL Area
Lady 4J7 YLF raised by Rex Malmberg - finished by Robert Lauer – Orlando/Daytona, FL Area
Parker 8X6 BLF raised by Heidi Reyher - finished by Sue Croley & Bob Minthorn – Tampa, FL Area
Tempo 6H7 YLM raised by Laura Lawson – Winter Haven, FL Area
Alice 12K7 BlxGF co-raised by Marcia Werdenberg & Family and Cheryl Miller – Cocoa Beach, FL Area
Clarke 8M6 YLxGF raised by Susan & Raymond Souder - Hilton Head, SC Area - finished by Diona Boyle - Sun City, FL Area
Dalen 3B7 YlxGM raised by Ricardo Amaro - St.Pete, FL Area
Ellie 3F7 BLF raised by Maggie & Shea Glassman - Atlanta, GA Area
Emma 7H7 YLF raised by Juanita Ingram – Dothan, AL Area
Lady 4J7 YLF raised by Rex Malmberg - finished by Robert Lauer – Orlando/Daytona, FL Area
Parker 8X6 BLF raised by Heidi Reyher - finished by Sue Croley & Bob Minthorn – Tampa, FL Area
Tempo 6H7 YLM raised by Laura Lawson – Winter Haven, FL Area
Monday, June 15, 2009
Home Alone
We all know that the trifecta of puppy raising is house manners, obedience and socialization. And, let's face it, half the fun of raising a puppy is being able to take him almost everywhere. So it might be easy to overlook an important quality that guide dogs must have. They should be able to be left alone without tearing up the place or violating city noise ordinances.
Most guide dogs spend almost 24/7 by their person's side, but occassionally people have to leave the dog at home. They may need surgery or want to go to an event where it would actually be better not to bring the dog (a loud concert or a theme park, for instance.) And, to put an even finer point on it, people who work need to have a dog who won't go ballistic every time they are left alone in an office.
Be sure to acclimate your pup to being alone, especially if he is the type that stays constantly by your side. You know the type - follows you everywhere, would go into the shower with you if you let him. For safety's sake, put the pup in a crate. If your pup has some separation anxiety, you can start with leaving him in another room in the house for a few minutes, then work up to an hour or so. (Remember - don't let him out of the crate unless he is quiet.) Then leave him at home for short periods of time and work up to absences of several hours. Try to leave the pup at home about once a week. This all may take some extra effort, but it will produce a well-rounded dog that is comfortable being alone.
WARNING: CHANGE OF TOPIC AHEAD!
Weather Report: We have 3 seasons in Florida: Miserably Hot, Hot, and Hey, It's Not Too Bad Today. The Not Too Bad season lasts about 3 days. (I may be exaggerating just a tad.) Right now it is Miserably Hot. It's easily 80 degrees by 8am. My point is not to garner sympathy, but to remind everyone that our dogs must work in the heat. This would be a good time to re-read a post I wrote on this subject last year. Check it out here.
Most guide dogs spend almost 24/7 by their person's side, but occassionally people have to leave the dog at home. They may need surgery or want to go to an event where it would actually be better not to bring the dog (a loud concert or a theme park, for instance.) And, to put an even finer point on it, people who work need to have a dog who won't go ballistic every time they are left alone in an office.
Be sure to acclimate your pup to being alone, especially if he is the type that stays constantly by your side. You know the type - follows you everywhere, would go into the shower with you if you let him. For safety's sake, put the pup in a crate. If your pup has some separation anxiety, you can start with leaving him in another room in the house for a few minutes, then work up to an hour or so. (Remember - don't let him out of the crate unless he is quiet.) Then leave him at home for short periods of time and work up to absences of several hours. Try to leave the pup at home about once a week. This all may take some extra effort, but it will produce a well-rounded dog that is comfortable being alone.
WARNING: CHANGE OF TOPIC AHEAD!
Weather Report: We have 3 seasons in Florida: Miserably Hot, Hot, and Hey, It's Not Too Bad Today. The Not Too Bad season lasts about 3 days. (I may be exaggerating just a tad.) Right now it is Miserably Hot. It's easily 80 degrees by 8am. My point is not to garner sympathy, but to remind everyone that our dogs must work in the heat. This would be a good time to re-read a post I wrote on this subject last year. Check it out here.
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