The Leader Dog Newsletter - The UPDATE
Volume 2, Issue 13
April 1992


NEW KENNEL CONSTRUCTION AT LEADER DOG

Leader Dogs for the Blind is getting a face lift.  A $4,000,000 kennel
is under construction and on schedule to open this summer.

"The new kennel will allow us to provide a less stressful and
healthier living environment for our dogs in training, puppies,
breeding stock and career change dogs,"  comments Mickey Loeser,
Director of Training.

The new construction has the most modern air exchange system
available, recirculating the air at least three times each hour. "This
will help to decrease the instances of airborne contaminates", adds
Mickey.  The kennel also offers a great amount of storage space and
maintenance area where vehicles and implements will be parked.

The new kennel should bring Leader Dog an expected lower percentage of
dogs lost to academic failure, which will allow Leader Dog to continue
to serve as the largest dog guide training facility in the country.  


1992 LEADER DOG CALENDAR OF EVENTS

April 12 - Class 92-11 Begins
May 10 - Class 92-12 Begins
June 7 - Class 92-13 Begins
June 10 - Board of Trustees Meeting
July 5 - Class 93-01 Begins
July 18/19 - Lions Summer Visits
August 2 - Class 93-02 Begins
August 15/16 - Lions Summer Visits
August 30 - Class 93-03 Begins
September 9 - Annual Board Meeting
September 12 - 5th Annual Puppy Day
September 21 - Lions Districts 11-A1 & A2 Open House
September 27 - Class 93-04 Begins
October 20 - Big "D" Open House - Lions Dist. 11-D1/D2
October 25 - Class 93-05 Begins
November 22 - Class 93-06 Begins
December 2 - Board of Trustees Meeting
December 2 - 42nd Annual Kick-Off Luncheon
December 26 - Class 93-07 Begins


LEADER DOG AND ORIENTATION AND MOBILITY

Rod Haneline, a Leader Dog instructor for 12 years, has earned his
Masters Degree in Orientation and Mobility from Western Michigan
University.  Rod now works with other Leader Dog instructors, staff
and students in Orientation and Mobility techniques.

In May, Leader Dogs for the Blind will host a two day seminar at the
training facility in Rochester.  Orientation and Mobility students
from Western Michigan University have been invited to attend.  "The
seminar will allow us as dog guide instructors to introduce our
training techniques to the Western Michigan students.  A visually
impaired person is more likely to encounter an Orientation and
Mobility professional then they are to meet a dog guide instructor."
explains Rod.  

Leader Dog, Orientation and Mobility specialists, and the visually
impaired community will only benefit from this continued shared
knowledge. 


DID YOU KNOW...

Leader Dog has over 2,000 active graduates in 48 states and 11
countries.

The Leader Dog veterinary clinic runs over 2,000 blood, urine and
fecal samples each year to ensure the health of the dogs in training.

Each class the Leader Dog kitchen cooks 120 dozen eggs, 300 lbs. of
potatoes and uses 70 loaves of white bread.  No student leaves their
table hungry.

Lions, Lioness and Leo Clubs that contribute $250 or more in one
fiscal year receive a special patch for their banner, along with a
chevron marking the year; plus a yearly chevron for every year after
that in which Leader Dog receives $250 from that club.

To make the 600 leashes and 400 harnesses needed each year, Leader Dog
needs 45 leather backs. (15-20 sq. feet in each back)

There are over 260 puppies being raised in host homes as part of the
Leader Dog Puppy Raising Program.  There is even a Future Leader Dog
in Hawaii.

Leader Dog feeds 140,000 pounds of dog food each year to dogs in
training.


NEW TELEPHONE SYSTEM AT LEADER DOG

We have installed a new telephone system that will help to better
serve the large number of phone calls we receive each day.

You may still reach Leader Dog by calling (313) 651-9011.  During
regular business hours (8:30-4:30) Monday - Friday, our receptionist
is available to help you, after hours there will be a recorded
message.  We want to emphasize that when you dial 651-9011 during our
normal hours, you will always talk to a person, not to a computer.

Each department has individual extensions and the departments listed
below also have direct dial lines.   Because these extensions are to
individuals, they may not always be available.  In that event, our
"voice mail" system will allow you to leave a message or you may be
connected to our receptionist who will assist you.

General Calls - (313) 651-9011
Admissions/Applicants - (313) 650-7111
Graduate Services - (313) 650-7112
Breeding Department - (313) 650-7113
Puppy Raising Coordinator - (313) 650-7114
Adult Dog Donations/Adoptions - (313) 650-7115
Leader Dog Computer Bulletin Board - (313) 651-4009
Leader Dog FAX - (313) 651-5812


THE LEADING EDGE IN VETERINARY MEDICINE
by Dr. David Smith

The information and technological explosion has occurred in the
veterinary arena as well as other professions. Maintaining current
knowledge, technical and surgical skills requires constant review of
professional periodicals, attendance at veterinary seminars and
interaction with specialists within the field. The most current
treatment options, drugs and surgical techniques are then at hand to
ensure the most efficient treatment, care, and early return to health.

Computer data banks are now available to the veterinary profession to
access information on any topic quickly and easily. Through computer,
fax and telephones transmission, EKG's, radiographic images, lab data
and specialist consultation can occur to provide timely treatment of
even the most difficult cases.

Computers are also used by the veterinary profession for gait
analysis, measurement and production of artificial joints and
establishing nutrient and fluid therapy needs.
Technological advances have also been noted in breeding management.
Artificial insemination has been used for many years with excellent
results. Now there is the technology to use frozen stored semen, or
cooled semen, which might be shipped across the country to use when
transport of the breeding pair is undesirable. Ovulation timing via
hormonal blood levels, is now routinely done to determine optimal
breeding times. 

Technological innovation, continued caring attitudes, and the
willingness to apply advances in modern veterinary medicine will
continue to keep Leader Dogs for the Blind  on the leading edge of
veterinary medicine. 


GRADUATE CORNER

Maryan Louise Harrison of Missouri, is enjoying her seventh Leader
Dog, "Falcon".  The following is from her recent letter to the student
department.

My reason for writing this letter is to celebrate an anniversary. 
Forty-five years ago I received my very first Leader Dog.  On the
afternoon of February 25, 1947 Edward Upthegrove brought me a German
Shepherd named "Carl".  I can't think of this anniversary without
being aware of how different things are now.  When my first dog came
to me I was a single girl; then I had a 29 year marriage and finally,
several years of widowhood.  Through all of this, my dogs have been my
companions.  It is very special to think of the 28 feet that have
walked beside me; the 14 ears that have listened for my commands and
the 14 eyes that have seen me safely along the paths we have traveled. 
I cannot leave out those seven tails that wagged with delight.  Words
are inadequate to express my gratitude to Leader Dogs for the Blind
for the training I have received and for the good dogs I have been
given.  Thank you! Thank you!


ATTENTION GRADUATES

We love to hear from you, so don't hesitate to drop us a quick note,
like Maryan did.  Send your letters (and photographs) to the Student
Department.  We'll share your news with other grads in the UPDATE.  We
look forward to your contact.

Graduate, Brenda Picraux won a trip to hawaii through a radio contest! 
Too bad her Leader Dog "BABE" can't go and enjoy the sun and fun with
her.

Graduate, Nancy Lepkowski has taken up playing the bagpipes.  Nancy
enjoys playing in parades.  She says her Leader Dog "FRISCO" isn't too
thrilled with the music, but is learning to put up with it.

Graduate, Duncan Holmes became a father on February 12th.  Hannah
Elizabeth is doing well.  Congratulations Dad!!!



VOLUNTEER LEADER DOG WALKERS

Not rain, sleet, wind nor snow will keep them from their rounds...no
they're not mail carriers, these dedicated volunteers are Leader Dog
dog walkers.

Carol Hansen and Chuck Wingard have worn the treads on their tennis
shoes and have gotten more exercise then either probably planned on
the last few months.  

"It has become an obsession", Carole says referring to her walking
partners.  She began in early October 1991 and has spent over 400
hours helping out.  Carole's latest obsession are the puppies.  She
spent seven weeks recently with seven Future Leader Dogs.  "I looked
forward to seeing my babies every day because they changed so
quickly."   Carole has been recently renamed "Kennel Mom" by the dog
care department.    

Chuck, a St. Clair Shores Lions Club member volunteers his time about
three times each week.  With leash in hand, and a smile on his face,
Chuck arrives ready to walk and love his pals.  "I'd say my favorite
so far has been a Shepherd Cross named "Clancy", but "Buck" here isn't
too bad either", joked Chuck as he pet the fuzzy Golden Retriever. 
Chuck hopes his time spent with the dogs will ultimately help the
instructors.

The volunteer dog walking program will expand once the new kennel is
completed, but until then, Carole and Chuck will register more miles
regardless of the weather.


INTERNATIONAL GUIDE DOG DAY is APRIL 29, 1992

LEADER DOG GRADUATES

CLASS 92-07

Team Captain/Instructor Larry Heflin
Instructor Randy Horn
Apprentice Trainer Dawn Palmer
Apprentice Trainer Phil Griffin

Craig Dunlop of Montana & "Duffy"
John Collins of Canada & "Sheena"
Vickie Leggs of Missouri & "Keeva"
Matt Olalya of Illinois & "Krystee"
Judy Williams of Pennsylvania & "Brittany"
Brenda Picraux of Michigan & "Babe"
Marie Caron of Canada & "Lily"
Richard Bush of Wisconsin & "Duke"
Jerry Holder of Canada & "Shade"
Richard Goddeau of New York & "Duggan"
Amy Keen of Ohio & "Bear"
Terrance Cook of Michigan & "Moe"
Richard Benham of Virginia & "Alex"
Vickey Polley of Michigan & "Penny"
Davis Cross of Indiana & "Rocky"
Jerry Miller of Illinois & "Coty"
Tim Kilburn of Canada & "J.J."
Melba Fitts of South Carolina & "Dusty"
Paul Mimms of Missouri & "Jasper"
Leeham Williams of Indiana & "Calvin"

CLASS 92-08

Team Captain/Instructor Dan McDonald
Instructor Tom Hill
Instructor Keith McGregor
Apprentice Trainer Jim Gardner

Marie Landry of Louisiana & "Buffy"
Trudy Kolodzieski of Pennsylvania & "Tally"
Billy Shepherd of Oregon & "Jake"
Deborah McCahon of Tennessee & "Black Jack"
Vernon Mitchell of Missouri & "Shadrack"
George Gray of Texas & "Bugs"
Rosita Vasquez of Texas & "Jack"
Freddie Vasquez of Texas & "Buddy"
Al Blackburn of Illinois & "Rowdy"
Debra Chilton of Texas & "Piper"
Carol Stewart of Texas & "Duke"
JoAnne Wright of Indiana & "Sam"
Lottie Bernas of New York & "Sparty"
Lisa Kozlik of Wisconsin & "Sugar"
Noreen Hetznecker of Pennsylvania & "Leo"
Arda Perkins of Michigan & "Heika"
Cleo WEeaver of Indiana & "Stan"
Steve Kuga of Indiana & "Glen"
Curt Ochodnicky of Michigan & "B.J."
Rhonda Clifton of Texas & "Zeuss"

CLASS 92-09

Team Captain/Instructor Judy Campbell
Instructor Gary Jakubos
Apprentice Trainer Dave Hagemann
Apprentice Trainer Rob Richardson

Robert Jarvis of Ohio & "Bandit"
Frank Hospodin of Missouri & "Lex"
Dennis Wigner of Michigan & "Buster"
Dorothy Clark of Canada & "Dreyfuss"
Fred Paglisotti of Pennsylvania & "Voskie"
John Busky of Pennsylvania & "Jake"
Diane Diffy of Missouri & "Ashley"
Frank Rose of Maryland & "Murdock"
Rhonda Fickling of Georgia & "Snuggles"
Nancy Clark of Wisconsin & "Shasha"
Robert Tyndall of Pennsylvania & "Nathan"
Gary Glosenger of Pennsylvania & "Alex"
Steve Girten of Indiana & "Jessie"
Leah Heldreth of Alabama & "Toots"
James Ryan of Texas & "Molly"
Lis Geoghegan of Arkansas & "Indy"
Chris Trudell of Canada & "Monique"
Bruce Crothers of Michigan & "Lancer"
Russell Cygan of Wisconsin & "Sandy"

Congratulations and best wishes to our recent Leader Dog Graduates!


PUPPY DEPARTMENT

TRAVELING WITH YOUR PUPPY

Socialization of Leader Dog puppies involves taking the puppy to as
many new places as possible for new experiences.  Hand in hand with
this is getting the puppy used to riding in a car comfortably.  Leader
dog puppies must ride where they will not be at risk of injury to
themselves or to passengers.  In most cars this means on the floor,
sitting or preferably in the down position.  Always remember to double
and triple check to make sure no paws or tails are in the path of the
door before closing.

Under no circumstances should a dog be allowed to hang his head out
the window.  Windblown debris may cause serious injury to your dog's
eyes.  If your puppy tends to get carsick try starting out just
getting into and out of the car in the driveway.  Progress to short
trips around the block and eventually to longer trips.  Make it a fun
experience for the dog.  If the only time he gets to ride in the car
is to something he doesn't like (to the vet for vaccines for example)
it is natural for him to be reluctant.  Your pup will ride easier if
he is not fed heavily shortly before the trip.

If you have any puppy questions or suggestions that you would like to
see addressed in this column, please send them to "Leader Dog Update",
c/o Mike Walrath.


REMEMBER...

The Leader Dog Update is available to Graduates in the following
formats: Braille, Cassette Tape, Large Print & Regular Print.  Please
contact Graduate Services at (313) 650-7112 if you would like to
receive the newsletter in one of these formats.                                    