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Posted by: idaho_gracie ® 12/15/2008, 11:32:59 |
Does any one use a guide dog? |
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Posted by: Shirley Barr in New Mexico ® 12/16/2008, 10:24:39 |
I don't believe that anyone has ever posted that they were actually using a guide dog or assistance dog. The topic has come up and I do have a large (untrained) Shepherd that I occasionally use to help steady me in certain situations....mostly if we are out hiking in strange territory when we are traveling. I use a walking stick at home when I walk around our uneven terrain for the times that my eyes choose to just shut without warning. The walking stick has "saved me" on numerous occasions in my yard of rocks and slopes. I believe that there is typically a waiting list for guide dogs for the blind and not sure what the criteria are for getting one ....one does need to be legally blind.... or if a person with Blepharospasm would qualify even if categorized as functionally blind. Training is a long process for a guide dog for the blind and most of the dogs used have been bred and raised by "Guide Dogs for the Blind". There are various organizations but "Guide Dogs for the Blind" is probably the largest and most well known. People have been known to train their own dogs....especially as assistance dogs....but some dogs just aren't going to be good candidates for this type responsibility nor are most people capable of doing the required training. Judy, do you know anything about this?....I know that you are a dog lover, too. :-) Shirley in New Mexico Modified by Shirley Barr in New Mexico at Tue, Dec 16, 2008, 10:35:36 |
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Posted by: idaho_gracie ® 12/16/2008, 21:56:54 |
Thanks Shirley. Grace |
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Posted by: Shirley Barr in New Mexico ® 12/18/2008, 12:21:23 |
Grace, let us know if you find out anything about this if you check out getting a guide dog. I'm sure that others might be interested. Shirley in New Mexico |
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Posted by: myfanwy ® 12/18/2008, 13:46:24 |
When I first developed blepharospasm I had a young labrador who quickly latched on to my problems and now walks close alongside me and nudges my leg when she senses I'm having problems. I enquired about her being given proper training but as she isn't a properly selected dog it wasn't possible. She is a constant comfort to me both inside and out and, on my bad days, will not leave my side even when let off her lead but on good days will run off and enjoy herself.
I doubt that blepharospasm would qualify someone for a guide dog here in U.K. but I'm positive a lot of people would benefit from one. |
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Posted by: idaho_gracie ® 12/18/2008, 22:59:28 |
I found out that you can qualify for a dog if you are legally blind (Functional Blindness). The Idaho Commission for the Blind made the recommendation for Guide Dogs for the Blind. The Guide Dogs for the Blind website has a one page application that you complete on line. You have to complete a mobility class prior to getting your dog. They call you after they get your application. They come to your house to complete the application and make sure you will be able to care for a dog. Then you go to either California or Portland for three weeks to train with your dog. They offer classes every month and they said they do not have a waiting list. Every thing is paid for including airfare, transportation, and lodging. Their website has a list of Vets that provide free care once you go back home. There are lots of cute videos on Youtube about Guide Dogs for the Blind. Thanks every body for the posts. |
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Posted by: Shirley Barr in New Mexico ® 12/19/2008, 10:11:31 |
Hi Grace, Thanks for the information. I do wonder if the people that gave you the information are aware of what Blepharospasm is. There is a difference between "functional blindness" and "legal blindness". I do not believe that we qualify for Legal Blindness status. That is just my understanding and could be wrong.
Shirley in New Mexico Modified by Shirley Barr in New Mexico at Fri, Dec 19, 2008, 10:12:14 |
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Posted by: idaho_gracie ® 12/19/2008, 11:40:38 |
Hi Shirley, Thanks for the post. I am doing some more research and will let you know when I find out more. The Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually impaired came to do an evaluation at my home this week. They said I met the criteria for functional blindness and can get services. They refered me for an evaluation I think to certify me as legally blind. That part is a little unclear to me and I will let you know the outcome. They have an amazing program I am not sure how it is in other states. They have an eleven week residential vocational rehabilitation program which teaches you mobility training, evaluates you for visual aids, and helps with medical and travel expenses related to restoring your vision. I go to the eye doctor on Tuesday regarding obtaining the legal designation. It is still unclear to me whether functional blindness is a legal blindness or just a label to get you services. In Idaho functional blindness gets you a break on your property taxes. I'll let you know if I find out anything about functional blindness as a legal status. Idaho Statutes TITLE 67
Thanks |
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