Genie, an almost 2-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever and Seeing Eye dog to blind handler Karen Edwards of Los Alamos. Courtesy photo
By KAREN EDWARDS
Los Alamos
Hi, my name is Genie, and I am an almost 2-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever and genuine Seeing Eye dog! As a newly-minted graduate of the Seeing Eye, I am fully certified to perform my dream job: as dog guide, partnering with a blind human handler to travel anywhere safely and independently.
Located in Morristown, N.J., the Seeing Eye, is the oldest not-for-profit academy in the U.S. training dogs and blind handlers. I was conceived through the expertise of veterinary geneticists, nurtured in a specially-trained puppy-raising family for more than a year — and then, after I had met the high health and performance standards to qualify for guide dog fitness, I worked for 16 weeks with a specialized canine trainer.
My totally blind handler, Karen, arrived in Morristown for a month of intensive training, where we learned to navigate a busy city environment as a team. One day, Karen and I were downtown and were halfway across an intersection crossing, when an electric vehicle suddenly appeared in our path. I was able to apply one of my most impressive skills: intelligent disobedience. I knew it was not safe, so I knew to disobey her command to move forward. When we reached the other side of the street, Karen laughed and cried at the same time, and we did a little victory hug/dance.
Karen and I arrived in Los Alamos a few weeks ago, and she says this is my forever home. I have already met so many great folks here in town and they all want to know how they can help!
Here are a few pointers:
- My harness lets me know that I am in working mode and cannot afford to be distracted by petting, which is frowned upon in the workplace policy.
- Keep pet dogs on leash and under your control. Remember that my blind handler cannot see you or your dog approaching until it is too late.
- If you wish to provide information as we’re traveling in town, please approach on foot and verbally announce your intentions. Never shout from a car window, because you cannot be heard clearly over traffic.
Well, it’s time to harness up. Are we going to do volunteer work with Court-Appointed Special Advocates in Santa Fe? Or perhaps, since she’s a girly girl, we’ll be going to Allure or Galaxy for hair and nails. We thank you in advance for your support as we become a stronger working team.
If you are interested in learning more about guide dog training or to sponsor a guide dog team, go to: https:////www.seeingeye.org/graduates/coming-home-video.html.