Thursday, September 27, 2007

The Adventure Is Coming to An End

I decided to have a little fun with my photo editing software. I got this awesome sunset with Cobra in it awhile back and I had some fun with the pics.
There were a few days awhile back where we had the most beautiful sunsets. I believe I took these photos a month ago and it would have been around that time.
That's one good thing about living in the country. God's beauty is all around us without houses and buildings blocking the way (no offense to those that do)

In case you haven't noticed I'm started to dwell more on Cobra's limited time with me. I'm sure he has 4 or 5 months more, but it's too short! I want years with him!
I don't know about other guide and service dog schools, but if the pup that you raised doesn't make the program (health, temperament, etc..) KSDS will ask the puppy raiser if yo want him back. If you say no, then they go to great homes that have applied to accept one of these dogs as pets.
I have thought long and hard, but I really don't know if I will take him back. Most of me says yes, but a part of me knows that it's another member and another mouth to feed along with the possibility of dealing with why he was released.
I just don't know until the actual question is asked. I hope all goes well though and he doesn't have to be released from the program.
I know he would make an excellent assistance dog, and I think he would be better as a guide dog than a service dog. He stays by me and he never really looks at me, but is focused on the objects ahead of him. The commands "left" and "right" are coming along wonderfully and no longer do I get confused (it happens! I say left, but I mean right. I'm sure I'm not the only one)
Most of his commands he pretty much knows. There are a few I didn't teach him, such as "tug" because if he were to be a guide dog, that could be a potential hazard. There are a few others but not many.
I hope he takes his experiences, with me, and applies them to his future line of work. I'm tearing up now, so I better go.
Thanks for the comments guys! I know I haven't been reading all your blogs like I should, but I'm getting there.
Take care!

6 comments:

Ally and Eclipse said...

Very nice pictures! They're so pretty! and nope...no news yet. I should get my vet reference either today or tomorrow but probably tomorrow as that's the vet's day off and I'm gonna go see the gal for my personal reference tomorrow *grin* So soon!

Emily and the Labradors said...

Hi Sarah-

I don't think I've commented before, but I've been enjoying your blog. I love that first picture! How beautiful and serene! 4-5 months doesn't sound like much time to me... that's about when I start getting all sentimental with my pups. Congrats on your job too!

Emily and Angel
http://lifewiththedogs.blogspot.com/

Kimberly and Rufus said...

Love the first picture!

I just want you to know, as a person working with a guide dog, that I appreciate everything raisers put into their pups before formal training. That early socialization and groundwork laid is so important to the dog's success later as a working dog. Enjoy the time you have left with Cobra!

Emily and the Labradors said...

Here's a link for the info on the breed test...

http://www.metamorphixinc.com/products2a.html

Wasn't sure if you'd go back to my blog, so thought I'd give you the link here... A little silly and pricey, but definitely fun!

Ally and Eclipse said...

Man oh man! If I had 72 bucks to waste I'd order one for Kira! I want to see what they would say she is! (for those who don't know...she's a purebred, registered American Eskimo...no I do not have the papers, lol, and yes, she's spayed) Since Eskies aren't one of the breeds...hmm...maybe waiting ten years would be beneficial :-D

Mosier 'n Me said...

Don't worry, Sarah!
Regardless of what happens, you'll be my pup's Aunt! :D