Titus has settled into a routine at our house. He has quickly learned to use the stairs both open and closed, up and down. He is doing well on his potty training, though he still has a ways to go. He is learning what is his stuff and what is ours and seems determined that more should be his.
In the beginning we are somewhat limited with where we can go with Titus and what activities we can engage in. So, we are mostly working at home. Working on stairs, going potty on leash, heeling (we have a long way to go here) and learning his name are the priorities here at this point. We want Titus to come when called and this week that has been our key focus. His reward is a lot of praise and extra time to play. The more he follows the rules, plays nicely with others and comes when called the more rewards he reaps.
I will stress that it's not easy raising a guide dog, much like raising any puppy is not easy. I have to remind myself often that he has a greater purpose. When I'm tired or a tad frustrated I go look at my fridge and see Moxie with his graduate and then I'm reminded exactly why we are doing this. This is especially helpful when Titus needs to go out at 6am.
In the beginning we are somewhat limited with where we can go with Titus and what activities we can engage in. So, we are mostly working at home. Working on stairs, going potty on leash, heeling (we have a long way to go here) and learning his name are the priorities here at this point. We want Titus to come when called and this week that has been our key focus. His reward is a lot of praise and extra time to play. The more he follows the rules, plays nicely with others and comes when called the more rewards he reaps.
I think what you're doing is so wonderful and wish you endless luck and success with sweet young Titus.
ReplyDelete♥ Jessica
Thank you so much Jessica! We need all the luck we can get. =)
DeleteI don't know if I ever told you, but I used to work at Leader Dogs for the Blind here in Michigan before I gave birth to Tara. It is a wonderful thing, what these dogs give to blind people. The independence that they achieve with their guide dogs. Being a puppy raiser is a big undertaking and a huge job. I love that you do this. :)
ReplyDeleteKelly, I don't think you have told me that. I hear good things about Leader Dogs! It's definitely a challenging but rewarding experience. This is dog number three for us so our son has grown up raising them. He's almost six now.
DeleteOh my gosh, he is just adorable. My cousin just received a guide dog for her autistic son and he has been a complete blessing to their family. Kudos to you guys for training these dogs, thank you!
ReplyDeleteGood job Titus! And you, Alexis! My Future Leader Dog Scout is ready to return to Leader Dogs, but she isn't scheduled until mid-Sept. Already I miss the challenge of a new puppy because she is "mature" now. But I do understand that I will have the same feelings as you in the middle of the night when I have a new one to train. Hang in there, those first couple weeks seem the longest!
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