Eye of the Beholder
Guide dogs are trained to lead their
owners around obstacles. I often need to keep my eye on Glindy when
we're walking so that she doesn't get run over by shopping carts,
step in molten chewing gum on hot pavement, or splash through muddy
puddles. This forces me to watch where we're both going,
and to be more aware of my environment.
Some service animals are trained to greet people for their owners.
Glindy prefers to keep her distance from strangers. This forces me
to step forward and interact with them for the both of us.
Many service dogs are trained to eliminate on cue. Glindy can hold
it for hours (up to 36 hours, sometimes), and won't go until she's
good and ready. This forces me to take her for frequent long walks
when travelling.
As a result of these things, some people might consider Glindy a
bad fit as a service dog, but she's just what I need to help me be
a better person. She makes me more focused, more sociable, and more
active--and what could be wrong with that?