Tuesday, March 29, 2011

All or Nothing

So, it has finally arrived; the email I have been waiting for. It says that Glacier and I will be returning to Leader Dogs for the Blind for retraining on April tenth for approximately a week. I'm not sure what that word "approximately" means-perhaps longer than a week if they think we need it-but I am so grateful to be given this opportunity. I also want to commend the Leader Dogs staff for handling my request in a very quick and efficient manner. I sent my first email of concern in on Friday after business hours and just received a second email from them confirming that we indeed are going in for retraining.
I am so nervous and excited. I'm nervous because they have also told me that if the staff determine Glacier needs to be retired, then they will retire him after our week of retraining. All I can do is pray and keep doing what I am doing now to ensure that Glacier and I stay a working team. He and I bonded so quickly when we first met, that I am willing to do whatever it takes to get us back on track.
This upcoming Saturday we will be back in the town where I went to university/college and I will get a lot of working in. That will also help me to determine more accurately where our problem areas are and whether or not I feel like he can be retrained.
The improvements I have seen in his demeanor and attitude just from being on leash and having more one on one time with me in the past three days, tells me that he can do this. We both need to rebuild trust and the week at Leader Dogs for the Blind will allow us to focus on just each other and hopefully that is all we need.
This is a happy Jess signing off for now. :)
PS: Thank you again for all of the encouragement we have received from you wonderful people.

9 comments:

Frankie Furter and Ernie said...

I am so totally sure that all that is needed is a bit of retraining. I will cross my paws for you BOTH.

L^2 said...

Oh, that's fantastic news! I'm so glad they are going to bring you back to the school for retraining. We'll be keeping our fingers and paws crossed here that it helps get Glacier back on track. I would hate to see Glacier be retired at such a young age, unless he really just doesn't want to do his job anymore. *hugs* And hope you guys have a good, safe trip this weekend.

Scooter said...

Hey Jess & Glacier!
Wow, I'm glad you'll get to do your retraining...more ed is always a good thing. I really hope this works out for both of you because I think you're a pawesome team. Please keep us posted and I'm crossing my paws for you both.
Grr and a Hopeful Woof,
Sarge, COP

Lisa and pups said...

Oh good. I am pleased they addressed your issues so quickly. I am positive thing will work out perfectly!

Becky Andrews said...

Wishing you well in your retraining. That is great that they offer that. Wishing you the very best. I am always amazed when the trainer comes here and helps us - how much we learn and how it helps us with our challenges. Thinking of you.

Anonymous said...

So glad they got back to you so quickly and that you and Glacier will have this retraining opportunity. I'll be sending good thoughts your way!

Brooke, Cessna, Canyon & Rogue said...

I'm so glad to hear this! I'm confident in your abilities and know that you will do what is best for the both of you - good luck with everything and of course keep us posted!!

Torie said...

The fact that you are already seeing improvements is deffinetly a good thing. I'm sure that when you go for retraining he'll get back into shape. Maybe seeing the trainers will put him back on track again.

When you come back just take things slow, and if you feel you need some quality time, just keep him with you.

I really hope it works out-you sound like an awesome team!

Take care, wags and woofs from Ushi Xxx.

Angels Amber and Max DaWeenie and Mom said...

Good Luck, but I is sure you won't need it. You guys have always been a great team.