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The Life of a Puppy in Pre-Training

New Life

Hi All-
Looks like I have many new adventures ahead of me! In the beginning of June I met this cool guy named Mike. It was really nice because I didn't have to live in the kennels anymore, I got to be with Mike in his room here at GEB. Over the next few weeks, Mike and I did all the things me and my trainer have been doing since I started training. Things were a bit different because with Mike, I had to be super careful to make sure I didn't crash him into anything or walk into traffic. Come to think of it, he acts a lot like when my trainer was under blindfold, except he acts like it all the time...Anyway, after Mike and I had been together for like 3 weeks guess who came to visit? Sarah!!! I was so excited, I jumped all over her, but my new dad told me I had to behave, so I did. It was really nice to see her again, but at the same time it made me realize just how much I love Mike. Now, I am going to go home with him and attend college. I can't wait!!! I'll try to keep you posted on my new life as a guide dog!
~Lab Wiggles and Kisses~
Diego

New Pictures

Hi all-
I just got some pictures of Diego working. From what I hear, he is doing very well, so keep fingers and paws crossed for him :)
Sarah

Report #1

Hello to all my Diego pals!
I just got an email with Diego's first report. He has gone through
all the medical stuff (X-rays, physical, neuter, eye exams, etc.) and was
deemed healthy and started training. He was given a 'G' or Good rating for
his manners playing with other dogs, body handling, and kennel behavior. He
also got a 'G' for his obedience, Intro to the harness, forward command,
hup-up command, and wait command. He got 'F/G' or Fair to
Good for the straight line concept, which I am guessing he is just starting
because that is more of a Phase 2 lesson. Here is what his trainer, Jolene,
had to say about him:

"Diego is sweet, soft boy. At times Diego can get solicitous with his
handler. Diego's obedience is very good and he is very responsive to me at
this time. Diego has learned to move out at a consistent pace and pull in
response to the forward command. He has also learned the basics of making
left and right turns. Diego has tested off of Colonial Street and will
begin working in the small town of Peekskill on Monday.

Diego has an average level of distraction which we are working on using
counter-conditioning. Diego will be beginning to learn about curbs, street
crossings, and clearances.

Diego is currently living with Gisa, an all black GSF. The two get along
very well and enjoy each others company."

For those who are wondering, Colonial Street is a street right next to GEB where the dogs learn the very basics of guide work. They are tested at the end of each phase and those that understand the phase's concepts move on to the next phase.

I will continue to post as soon as I get any info!

Sarah