Guide dog provides safety
RIVONIA- Blind people are an extension of their guide dogs.
They trust their dog to direct them and make them feel safe.
According to Paul Drake, who works in Rivonia, his guide dog Tod is not a pet, but a “friend who helps him get around”.
Tod gives Drake the freedom he could never have using a cane, but it was not always this way. Drake used a cane to guide him around until he matriculated. He did not want to be burdened by an animal, and was unsure he wanted the responsibility that comes with having a guide dog.
However, after he experienced a traumatic episode on the street while using his cane, he approached the South African Guide Dog Association.
A guide dog trainer visited him at his home and allowed Drake to get a feel of a dog with a harness. Drake was then matched with his first dog Emma and went on a three week course.
“I remember holding her for the first time without the trainer; it felt like I was flying,” said Drake. “The training is a learning process that synchronises us into a union.”
He said each dog learnt to adjust to their handler’s weight and balance. “Tod is intelligent enough to understand the words I say and what direction to lead me in. Routine is important and creates a semblance of stability.”
When Drake is at work, Tod lies down patiently with his master until he is needed again.
