Category: Animal House
Hey guys,
Well well. Did I have a walk today. Lol. I don't htink my feet have hurt in so long, but let me tell you about it. On Friday I think it was, I went out with Chelsea, and she did such an excelent job of going out with me, and we did it at night mind you. So I met a friend of mine here, and we walked downtown probably a 6 or 7 block walk, and the construction is finally done. So that was such a relief for me. And they 've got 2 talking traffic lights in a row from one block to the next. So I was really excited about that. But anyway, she only made one mistake on crossing streets. And on the way home from the bar I ate at, she didn't make any. So I told Dave, my instructor that got sent out that she did such a great job when I last took her out and he said good job. And we went out yesterday and I kept forgetting to say her name before a command because I got nervous for some reason lol. But today was the big walk. I learned how to use the high collar and I'm not afraid to use it. I guess I could say, I'm learning to be firm but gentle at the same time. Firm if she doesn't do what I want her to do, to correct her, and if she does what I want to praise her with soft quiet tones, and soft strokes on the head. So we took a huge walk today and walked for probably 3 to 4 hours long, not all at once thank god. But in any case, she only made one mistake on one street crossing out of however many we did. It felt like hundreds lol. So I was very pleased with her. So I feel like I can just go out with her and tell her to go across the street streight, and we'll make it with no problem. I fed her when we got home and Dave and I talked some, and boy was he surprised when he saw her eat. lol. He said he'd never seen a shepherd eat like her. She sure loves her food he said, And she does. She's really tired now, and so am I. I'm just so glad that they sent an instructor out to work with me, and even though it was a lot of work, I think it really paid off. I just have to keep her on her toes, and keep reminding myself to take her for a walk everyday and to keep being firm, but gentle when giving praise because they really like that. And with talking to other people who have shepherds to, it's just great to know that things will work out. So hopefully within the next few months, our bond will be complete. I can't wait for that to happen. But she's always at the foot of my bed when I sleep, and gives me doggy kisses when she wants to, and she comes everytime I tell her to. So it's just great. So anyway, I thought I'd update everyone on what's been going on. So thanks for putting up with my posts every once in a while, talking about the bonding. I know it gets annoying sometimes, but it's my second dog and I forgot what it's like to bond with a dog all over again. So I'm sorry for those who think it's annoying, but it's part of the process. I'm just glad I have friends who support me, and the work we do and help me when I need it. So thanks for reading this long post. lol.
Songbird, that is wonderful. It can feel like such a challenging and exhillerating time, those first 6 months to a year.
Hey, could you describe this high collar? I'm curious.
Also, what is a talking street light? Is it different from the tweeting ones?
BTW, I don't tire of your postings, it is inspiring to hear of guide dog stories. Weather it is a brilliant experience, or having a challenging, it is wonderful to share.
Yeah love guide dog stories, well dog stories in general.
Well, the new streetlights, when they put in a new one, they have to talk by law now. You push the button and it says wait, then it'll say now crossing or light is green or whatever it says, and it says the name of the street you're crossing to. It's really cool. And a high collar is when you take the collar up close to the dogs ears on the top of their head kind of, and pull on the little spot that holds the leash on it. Well, maybe not that spot. oh boy it's hard to explain, It's just easier to do it. But it doesn't hurt the dog when you do it. I know the first time it scared me when I first did it to Chelsea she was howling and Dave told me that she'll be a drama queen and see what she can get away with. If she's acting like it hurts her, then you won't do it, and she'll get what she wants, but you have to do it weather she likes it or not. lol. It just drew me back I guess because I wasn't expecting her to howl. But if someone else can explain the high collar better, I'd greatly appreciate it. lol.
lets see if I can describe a high collar. lol I am familiar with them as I had to use them a lot with July when she was younger. The collar is placed high on the dog's neck, just behind the ears. You then give a firm correction up with the leash. Just like you would give a correction if the collar were further down on the dog's neck. Just like with other corrections, it should be a jerk then a quick release, the collar does not stay tight. Or at least the ones I was taught doesn't. I have heard that some teach it a bit differently, so I can only speak from my experience. It gets a dog's attention because that is a more sensative spot of their neck. It does not hurt the dog, but they pay attention to the pressure applied there more. I hope that made sense.
Awww, July is a cute and unique name for a guide. I love hearing guide dog names!
Ok, I get the high collar now, I use it on occasion with my guide. I just wasn't sure if it was the same thing, or some new collar. *lol*
Wow, talking lights, that is cool! I have not come across one yet. Hee-Hee, no pun intended!
congrats Song Bird, on your good visit with TSE. I am glad you are feeling encouraged with the progress you and Chelsea are making! I love shepherd stories as my guide is also a shepherd from TSE - although I loved the breed wel before that, and that love is why I chose to request a shepherd for a guide in the first place. My guide and I had a few struggles in the beginning and I know having people's encouragement can go a long way in being helpful. So good luck and keep sharing. :)
like everybody else on here, I love hearing dog stories. as I'm going in november to get one, I'm so excited.
Hey turricane, where are you going to get your dog?
Oh wait, I just saw it, duh. Lol. I'm sorry.
it was nice to read your story and like many others, I love reading guide dog stories and stories in general! se is a fantastic school! I am definetly returning there for my second seeing eye dog when the time comes. songbird, good luck to you and your shepherd.
Most living things likes love.
Hi Songbird83,
Glad to hear things are going well for you with Chelsea. I got my first guide dog this March, and we had quite a challenging time at the start, but all's relatively smooth saling for now.
Here's wishing you the best of luck, and glad the visit went well!