Author Archives: Monica McGill

Yesterday we (my Guide Dog Mobility Instructor and I) did our first training session with my guide dog with a person she knew with us for her to start to learn how to greet a human politely and for me … Continue reading →

In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy learned that something magical happens when she clicked. In her case, when she clicked the heels of her ruby red slippers together three times, saying “there’s no place like home”, she found herself back … Continue reading →

When I trained with my first guide dog, Waffle, I was taught to use negative reinforcement methods with her.  That is, to correct the unwanted behaviours using my voice, the lead and/or the harness.  This method of training and working … Continue reading →

Around a year ago Guide Dogs started running an advert on TV for Gifts in Wills. They used pieces of film they had previously taken from various partnerships for varying campaigns and fundraising activities. The member of staff who contacted … Continue reading →

      I came across this poem after seeing a couple of lines from it on the internet. It’s by Linda Ori, called Radiance.   I did not bring you roses when you searched for something rare, instead I … Continue reading →

Standing at the bus stop this morning chatting to a friend I noticed a female and her dog approaching on my left. Despite Sadie being in full working guide dog regalia (white harness with resplendent fluorescent yellow chest flash, two … Continue reading →

First day back at work for Sadie and I today after our Easter holidays.  My trainer is on holiday this week so Sadie and I will be practising our various lunchtime routes so we can identify any problem areas my … Continue reading →

I’ve mentioned previously that one of the significant problems I had with Sadie shortly after class finished last year was that she would stick on a particular route, with me initially not being able to get her moving at all … Continue reading →

I’m back to work today after having the Easter weekend off work.  I had planned some long walks with Sadie, completing one of them, when my unstable pelvis made its presence felt once again.  Sadie shone on the new route … Continue reading →

Yesterday I arranged to meet my trainer at the shopping centre to do some more practice on a route within it to a particular shop.  Or so I thought!  My trainer is clearly getting to know me well and knows … Continue reading →