Wednesday, September 10, 2008

new blog location

Now that Roman's not longer an official service dog, I felt it was only fair end this chapter of his life and start the new chapter of his life with a new blog. Soon he'll be coming back home to Denver and the name "Roman" will be given to a new puppy that will hopefully make it as a guide dog for the blind.

Please visit his new blog: www.romanandme.blogspot.com to see how he's doing as my pet dog!

flunked out of school


DOG: 4M93 - Roman M\LAB\Yellow - TRN\REL
DOB:1/20/2007
LOCATION: SR
DISPOSITION: To be Determined
MANAGEABLE COMPANION: No


SUMMARY: Roman is a personable dog with many endearing qualities. He requires average handling for control, especially around other dogs. Roman has been very healthy, and is currently eating 2 cups Science Diet Lamb & Rice twice a day.
Roman made a very slow adjustment to kennel life. He was initially uneasy with the various sights, sounds and activities of this environment. For example, he showed concern with some noises and with being in the general proximity of an active hose in community run. Also, Roman was initially very anxious and resistant to body handling, specifically being placed on his side. Roman bonded very quickly and strongly with his primary Instructor, and he was initially vocal (barking, whining) in the kennel for attention. As time passed and with supportive handling, Roman settled in and showed marked improvement in all of the areas mentioned above. Despite his slow adjustment in some areas, Roman interacted well with his roommate and all the dogs he played with in community run.
In formal training, Roman proved to be a willing, food motivated learner. He tried hard to please and tended to put a lot of pressure on himself to do the right thing. Despite his willing temperament, Roman displayed discomfort with various stimuli in the environment and some tasks that were asked of him. This unease was observed with objects in the environment, some noises, while passing through doorways, with surfaces, stairs, and while riding in the training van (both in and out of the van crates). While Roman made progress in some areas, his generalized concern of the environment has led to his release from our program. There is no doubt Roman will be a fun pet dog and he will be remembered fondly by our staff.

RELEASE REASON(S): 21301
BEH: Fearful Behavior Environment Generalized
IMPORTANCE: Primary

Thursday, September 4, 2008

phase four


Guidework training progresses on more difficult sidewalks in busier sections of downtown areas. All curb types and more complex street crossings are introduced. The dogs begin to show clearance awareness, and begin to guide their instructors through the campus obstacle course. Preliminary obedience testing and evaluation of the dogs' reactions to head collars are also performed.