Cruising With A Service Dog....everything You Ever Wanted To Know!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Dogs can read written-word commands and understand stick-figure drawn commands, too! There's a book about it. The lady who wrote it is a service dog trainer and she has a school where she teaches others how to train service dogs. It is a fascinating book, especially how the dogs instantly could follow the stick-figure commands without being given the verbal or written-word command they already knew for the thing! :cool:

When Brenda and I are outside, in back of my office, she will respond to hand commands. I may ask her to "lay down" or "stop" or "here" with just using sign language. Of course, first I get her attention by using my voice or sometimes use the clapping of my hands or a whistle and then I use ASL.

The people who's offices face this area are always in awe of what Brenda can do and how responsive she is to me. They, sometimes, will give me"requests" of what they want Brenda to do. It's fun and it keeps her "sharp!"

Dogs love having a job to do and Brenda has a very strong work ethic. She will go out on the grass, preparing for play and sniffing but will first look at me to see if there are any directions or work for her to do......I say "release" and she becomes the most playful, romping, fun-loving and spirited Labrador in the world! :D

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Quam: Now the dogs following the stick figure commands gave me the chills! I know growing up we had to spell certain words, when we were riding in the car with our dog, cause he would go ballistic. Two I remember were squirrel and cow! I just thought about that. I just see Jezzy Lou reading a book, along with me! LOL. They are amazing furbabies and I really think their learning ability is beyond what I know I thought possible.

Nancy, that is so funny. We can not say the word "chewey", "cookie" or "dinner" this means she's going to get a treat or get fed.

She will literally wake out of the deepest, snoring sleep to these words......it's so cute and hysterically funny!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Oh and Quam, I have missed you! I kept checking this thread yesterday, and nothing. No one else around. Then bam, Quam showed up! I love reading your knowledgeable posts, even though I don't have a service dog, I am an advocate for you guys. It gives me lots of information and if I were to ever see an incident like Roz was involved in, I would definitely stand up and give them a piece of my mind. Ignorance is no excuse and rudeness is definitely not going to get anyone anywhere with me. People should really memorize and follow, "Treat people the way you want to be treated!" Period.

I go into places with much more ease than I ever used to. I still get stared at because having a Working Dog is still an "unusual" thing in our society but I'm no longer shy or fearful as I used to be.

I take the time, now, to scope out the table and the ease of getting Brenda under and out of it....where as before I would not want to bother anyone and would accept "wherever" we were placed in the room.

Brenda was my guiena pig dog and, it brings tears to my eyes because she ALWAYS held her head high and looked so regal as she walked through many a hotel and restaurant - Where I was so scared and fearful of being thrown-out at any moment.

NEVER AGAIN! Thank you Brenda for the courage you gave me to go through EVERYWHERE in life with my head held high!!!!!!

[celle]

I don't want to mislead anyone who has followed along on this thread about who I am. I am totally deaf on my left side and only have 37% hearing on my right. I have acute/ongoing tinnitus which confuses the heck out of the only hearing I do have.

Before I got Brenda I would spin in circles, literally, before I finally figured out where the sound was coming from. Now, I just give Brenda the "what" ASL sign and she "stares" at the sound, until I acknowledge her and give her the "release" command.

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Hi Roz,

I think I am the hearing-alert dog for my DH! ;)

He is almost totally deaf in his left ear (diving accident) and has only about 30% hearing in the right ear (industrial deafness, courtesy of the Army, where, as an Engineer, he set off explosives in the days before ear-muffs were used). He also has tinnitus.

Most of the time, he manages well with hearing aids, but he can't locate the directions sounds come from. I have to tell him where his phone is when it is ringing and I always walk behind him on roads with no footpath, because he just doesn't hear traffic approaching from behind.

Twice, when traveling on business, he has slept right through a fire alarm and evacuation of a hotel building. He hears almost nothing without his hearing aids and they come out at night. That's why I always try to travel with him, but he has to tell the hotel that he is deaf if he travels alone.

We do have hearing-alert /assist dogs here in New Zealand - they use Beagles - but have only done so for about 10 years. I'm thinking that Maybe DH will need one of these wonderful dogs one day, but not yet.

Best wishes

Celle

[Alohatoo]

Thanks for the info on the ports. I may leave Shirley on the ship and just pop off to look around for a couple hours. I will take her off in San Juan because that is covered under the ADA. St. Maarten I am still considering and am not sure I want to have her go through another rabies shot when she just had a 3 year shot last year -- it is a lot to put her through for just a couple hours on shore and I will have someone with me so maybe she would be more comfortable staying in the nice air conditioned cabin? Thanks so much for the information. Mary

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hi Roz,

I think I am the hearing-alert dog for my DH! ;)

He is almost totally deaf in his left ear (diving accident) and has only about 30% hearing in the right ear (industrial deafness, courtesy of the Army, where, as an Engineer, he set off explosives in the days before ear-muffs were used). He also has tinnitus.

Most of the time, he manages well with hearing aids, but he can't locate the directions sounds come from. I have to tell him where his phone is when it is ringing and I always walk behind him on roads with no footpath, because he just doesn't hear traffic approaching from behind.

Twice, when traveling on business, he has slept right through a fire alarm and evacuation of a hotel building. He hears almost nothing without his hearing aids and they come out at night. That's why I always try to travel with him, but he has to tell the hotel that he is deaf if he travels alone.

We do have hearing-alert /assist dogs here in New Zealand - they use Beagles - but have only done so for about 10 years. I'm thinking that Maybe DH will need one of these wonderful dogs one day, but not yet.

Best wishes

Celle

Celle, your DH is the perfect candidate for a Hearing Dog. He has the exact hearing issues I have and my heart goes out to him. My DH was my hearing assistant from 2000 to 2002. Then, I saw a program on 20/20 about CCI and their Hearing Dog program and the rest is history.

I can't imagine my life without a Hearing Dog partner. Brenda completes me and allows my DH to have a life of his own [he doesn't have to babysit me anymore!]

When your DH is ready tell him to call Canine Companions for Independence - He'll NEVER be alone again and, you won't worry about him - 1-800-572-BARK.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Thanks for the info on the ports. I may leave Shirley on the ship and just pop off to look around for a couple hours. I will take her off in San Juan because that is covered under the ADA. St. Maarten I am still considering and am not sure I want to have her go through another rabies shot when she just had a 3 year shot last year -- it is a lot to put her through for just a couple hours on shore and I will have someone with me so maybe she would be more comfortable staying in the nice air conditioned cabin? Thanks so much for the information. Mary

Mary, you are a very thoughtful dog handler. I love the way your thinking. To over vaccinate our dogs because we want to be somewhere different is so unecessary, unfair and risky to the dogs health.

Have a wonderful cruise and thank you for thinking of Shirley first! :)

[Latitude 20]

I just wanted to pop on for a minute to thank everyone who provided me with information for my service dog presentation. It was yesterday and went very well but I'm also dealing with a seriously ill parent right now so I've not been able to respond and thank everyone properly for their help. Believe me, I appreciate all your posts and information.

Kathi

[celle]

Celle, your DH is the perfect candidate for a Hearing Dog. He has the exact hearing issues I have and my heart goes out to him. My DH was my hearing assistant from 2000 to 2002. Then, I saw a program on 20/20 about CCI and their Hearing Dog program and the rest is history.

I can't imagine my life without a Hearing Dog partner. Brenda completes me and allows my DH to have a life of his own [he doesn't have to babysit me anymore!]

When your DH is ready tell him to call Canine Companions for Independence - He'll NEVER be alone again and, you won't worry about him - 1-800-572-BARK.

Thank you, Roz.

At the moment, DH is not ready for this - does not like to be perceived as "different" and has his pride about it (Men!!). Also, we still travel a lot - including from NZ to the UK at least once a year. When our 2 adult kids and their families return to NZ, we'll travel less. By then, DH may be willing to accept help from a service dog.

Just in case there is is anyone else living in NZ who is considering a hearing assist dog, the association to contact is: Hearing Dogs for Deaf People New Zealand.

The URL giving details on how to apply is:

http://www.hearingdogs.org.nz/How-to-Apply/0,2711,11132,00.html

In NZ, the hearing assist dogs wear a bright yellow coat.

Celle

[cjborne2]

I just returned from a cruise to the Mexican Riviera on Holland America. We were able to go ashore with my dog using a letter from my vet documenting all of the information noted above. There was no request for an international health certificate (one issued by the US Government through the USAD APHIS office that requires presenting in person or sending off information to them.). I did take a health certificate issued by my local, licensed vet with the letter. I was praised for the efficiency of my paperwork and my dog was cleared with the entire passenger load. I had expected to have her individually inspected but she was not. When I requested additional information since I did not want to get off if there were problems, I was told that she cleared with flying colors but that the week before they had an SD that did not clear due to lack of detail regarding worming and probably lack of clarity of the info on the rabies vaccinations. While I was sorry to hear about the other SD not being allowed off the ship, I was reassured that someone actually did review the information. On shore we had no difficulties but I did stay on an excursion and did not go out on my own.

Thank you for posting these links. I feel like I'm getting the run around and no one knows EXACTLY what I need. We are traveling to Mexico via air for a wedding on the 8th and returning on the 10th. I've been told so many different things from different people (Call the USDA, USDA tells me to call the state vet, they told me to call my local vet, vet tells me to pull papers from the embassy). According to the Mexican Embassy, I need a rabies and distemper certificate and not an international one. We are getting the international one from the vet anyway. I don't need problems, especially since I've been told I do need one from other sources.

From what I've been told I need the health cert within 10 days of travel. The embassy said 5. I rescheduled the appt for within 2 days of travel. I'm so stressed out by this upcoming trip that I don't even feel like I want to go.

Thanks also to you that commented regarding my Amtrak questions. My husband and the dog traveled for work on the train between Baltimore and Washington for several years so the dog is used to the train. I just wondered how it would work on a longer trip. Growing up we did a lot of long distance road trips. This is something my kids won't be able to experience like I did because I can't drive by myself. I thought the train might be an option "some day". Who knows.

[wizard-of-roz]

I just wanted to pop on for a minute to thank everyone who provided me with information for my service dog presentation. It was yesterday and went very well but I'm also dealing with a seriously ill parent right now so I've not been able to respond and thank everyone properly for their help. Believe me, I appreciate all your posts and information.

Kathi


Kathi: I'm sorry your parent isn't well. I helped to care for my mother and father before they passed and, I know how much of yourself goes into the caregiving process - I wish you good luck at this difficult time.

I'm glad to hear that your presentation went well and that I could be of some help.

[wizard-of-roz]

Thank you, Roz.

At the moment, DH is not ready for this - does not like to be perceived as "different" and has his pride about it (Men!!). Also, we still travel a lot - including from NZ to the UK at least once a year. When our 2 adult kids and their families return to NZ, we'll travel less. By then, DH may be willing to accept help from a service dog.

Just in case there is is anyone else living in NZ who is considering a hearing assist dog, the association to contact is: Hearing Dogs for Deaf People New Zealand.

The URL giving details on how to apply is:

http://www.hearingdogs.org.nz/How-to-Apply/0,2711,11132,00.html

In NZ, the hearing assist dogs wear a bright yellow coat.

Celle

I totally understand how he feels. The process only works well when the person/handler is ready for it. Hopefully, one day he'll go for it and when he does, he won't believe how he ever lived his life without these "miracle working" dogs.

Thank you for sharing the good information about the hearing assist dogs in NZ. I'm so glad that more and more orgs. are becoming aware of the importance of the Hearing Dog in our society and around the world.

[jemiesranova]

I totally understand how he feels. The process only works well when the person/handler is ready for it. Hopefully, one day he'll go for it and when he does, he won't believe how he ever lived his life without these "miracle working" dogs.

Thank you for sharing the good information about the hearing assist dogs in NZ. I'm so glad that more and more orgs. are becoming aware of the importance of the Hearing Dog in our society and around the world.
This to me is strange that I have ever know

[wizard-of-roz]

Thank you for posting these links. I feel like I'm getting the run around and no one knows EXACTLY what I need. We are traveling to Mexico via air for a wedding on the 8th and returning on the 10th. I've been told so many different things from different people (Call the USDA, USDA tells me to call the state vet, they told me to call my local vet, vet tells me to pull papers from the embassy). According to the Mexican Embassy, I need a rabies and distemper certificate and not an international one. We are getting the international one from the vet anyway. I don't need problems, especially since I've been told I do need one from other sources.

From what I've been told I need the health cert within 10 days of travel. The embassy said 5. I rescheduled the appt for within 2 days of travel. I'm so stressed out by this upcoming trip that I don't even feel like I want to go.

Thanks also to you that commented regarding my Amtrak questions. My husband and the dog traveled for work on the train between Baltimore and Washington for several years so the dog is used to the train. I just wondered how it would work on a longer trip. Growing up we did a lot of long distance road trips. This is something my kids won't be able to experience like I did because I can't drive by myself. I thought the train might be an option "some day". Who knows.

I'm so sorry that you're feeling so frustrated by all the different information. I can certainly see why people don't travel with their Service Dogs or are shy about doing so.

I go to my Vet, get the Intl. Cert. [I don't always have it within 5 days] but I have so much information about my dog and myself along with this Cert. that I have not been stopped by ANYONE!

Please continue to travel. Try the train, you may like it and find it works for you.

I have "wanderlust" and must go and do and travel and drive and fly and cruise; by air, sea and land. My poor dog must go along with me and, Immigration, TSA, Border Guards and anyone else have to put-up with my insistance and willingness to do it with my Working Dog. I'll get the necessary documentation [maybe not within the time they want] but, with all the paperwork/licenses/certificates, etc. etc. I'll keep on going!

[wizard-of-roz]

This to me is strange that I have ever know

What part of this is strange to you? What do you mean?

[cjborne2]

I am hoping that if we get the internation health certificate, and bring rabies & distemper records, and have the other health records with us, it will be OK. I hope. I have a lot to do before we go. I think I'm also nervous about traveling out of the country without my kids as well. My parents are coming to stay with them so I know they will be fine. By this time next week I'll be in sunny (I hope) Mexico. It's got to be better than this cold, damp Mid-Atlantic weather we are experiencing right now.

[wizard-of-roz]

I am hoping that if we get the internation health certificate, and bring rabies & distemper records, and have the other health records with us, it will be OK. I hope. I have a lot to do before we go. I think I'm also nervous about traveling out of the country without my kids as well. My parents are coming to stay with them so I know they will be fine. By this time next week I'll be in sunny (I hope) Mexico. It's got to be better than this cold, damp Mid-Atlantic weather we are experiencing right now.

You will be fine. Make sure to make a few copies so that you can give the people at registration a copy [they'll be ever so grateful] and, you will save yourself the time it will take for them to find a copy machine.

You should have everything you need for a trip to Mexico.

Have a wonderful cruise and please come back and tell us all about it. :)

[wizard-of-roz]

I hope everyone is busy with "good" stuff.

We're having a literal heatwave here in L.A. It's unbelieveably hot. Brenda just went outside to potty [and, usually she'll play ball], this time she went potty, picked-up her ball and headed for the back door.

It's 90 degrees and it's not even noon. Yesterday, we had a wind blowing that was so strong...standing was an effort. Today, no wind just the weather gawds having a field day with us!!!!!!! :rolleyes:

For those of you who are planning a cruise......come and tell us all about it. We don't cruise until September and I'd love to drool over yours. :p

[cjborne2]

This trip we are flying for a wedding. I'm not even sure where we are going. Near Cozumel I believe. We are going from the airport to the resort and supposedly the car service has been notified about the dog. I pray there are no problems with that.

We ARE cruising in June to Alaska via Vancouver so yet more international hoops to jump through! I'm looking forward to that trip much more than this one. I have to get through the rest of the school year first lol!

Thanks for the reassurance!

[wizard-of-roz]

This trip we are flying for a wedding. I'm not even sure where we are going. Near Cozumel I believe. We are going from the airport to the resort and supposedly the car service has been notified about the dog. I pray there are no problems with that.

We ARE cruising in June to Alaska via Vancouver so yet more international hoops to jump through! I'm looking forward to that trip much more than this one. I have to get through the rest of the school year first lol!

Thanks for the reassurance!

I'm sorry, I totally forgot, you did tell us you were going to a wedding in Mexico.

Okay, that changes things a bit.

You will be dealing with Mexico's Airport Security - they will ask to see the dogs papers. You're fine, you have everything you need. Look out for STRAY DOGS. Protect your dog from local dogs who may just be curious. They don't have the laws that we have in the states and they don't treat their dogs with flea/tick abatement and, they may have mange! Just be careful and stay on the look-out for your dog and hubby. [Like anyone needs to tell this. I'm just being overly cautious!]

Taxi drivers in Mexico are also a bit "leary" of our dogs. Show them the money and I promise they'll be willing to help you. I know that may sound crass but with their economy worse than ours, the money they get is very important to them. It's easy for them to see that your DH needs the dog for seeing so you shouldn't a very difficult time.

Your cruise to Alaska will be a breeze. Your documentation is perfect. Just remember that Vancouver B.C. doesn't have to follow any of our ADA Access Laws. You may get some refusals as far as entering some places [restaurants/shops/museums, etc.] We were able to go to the Gardens and ate in a lovely restaurant nearby....with no problem. :)

Have a safe and wonderful trip.

[rangeley]

I hope everyone is busy with "good" stuff.

We're having a literal heatwave here in L.A. It's unbelieveably hot. Brenda just went outside to potty [and, usually she'll play ball], this time she went potty, picked-up her ball and headed for the back door.

It's 90 degrees and it's not even noon. Yesterday, we had a wind blowing that was so strong...standing was an effort. Today, no wind just the weather gawds having a field day with us!!!!!!! :rolleyes:

For those of you who are planning a cruise......come and tell us all about it. We don't cruise until September and I'd love to drool over yours. :p

Heatwave Roz??? We just had a few inches of snow today. I actually had to go out clean off the van and shovel Johns spot. I couldn't believe it!! It's 35 out and snow showers for the rest of the day.

I haven't been around lately I have been having a problem with my neck and shoulders. Once in a while I must sleep wrong or something and wake up hardly moving, but it goes away after a week or so.

I went back and read all previous posts, alot going on. I have to say I already knew Brenny was a hearing dog. But it was none of my business to mention it. I'm glad you talked about it and gave us a glimpse into your life. Obviously John is in a wheelchair, so he doesn't mind talking about his disability. But I realize some people don't. We(my ex and myself) had a deaf girl live with us for a while years and years ago. I learned how to sign the alphabet, but of course my brain function is way down at this age and I don't remember a thing. :(

We have to recertify in a few weeks and of course John is already in a frenzy :rolleyes: I don't understand why he is like that. Wex is in great shape, and is an awesome dog. And that dog just knows when something special is going on and needs to be at his best. He really turns it on when he needs to. Hopefully we will get the 3 year one this time so we don't have to do it again for a while.

My car is great, but I'm still getting used to it. I had what my son called "The smallest car on earth", and this one is more midsized so parking is alittle tricky to judge. I would probably have prefered a smaller car but we were thinking of times John has to transfer in and out of it, so alittle bigger is better. Being that my last car was 20yrs old, it had no modern conveniences. I am loving electric windows and cruise control! It's amazing how little stupid things make me happy. :D

Everyone have a great weekend!

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

Heatwave Roz??? We just had a few inches of snow today. I actually had to go out clean off the van and shovel Johns spot. I couldn't believe it!! It's 35 out and snow showers for the rest of the day.

I haven't been around lately I have been having a problem with my neck and shoulders. Once in a while I must sleep wrong or something and wake up hardly moving, but it goes away after a week or so.

I went back and read all previous posts, alot going on. I have to say I already knew Brenny was a hearing dog. But it was none of my business to mention it. I'm glad you talked about it and gave us a glimpse into your life. Obviously John is in a wheelchair, so he doesn't mind talking about his disability. But I realize some people don't. We(my ex and myself) had a deaf girl live with us for a while years and years ago. I learned how to sign the alphabet, but of course my brain function is way down at this age and I don't remember a thing. :(

We have to recertify in a few weeks and of course John is already in a frenzy :rolleyes: I don't understand why he is like that. Wex is in great shape, and is an awesome dog. And that dog just knows when something special is going on and needs to be at his best. He really turns it on when he needs to. Hopefully we will get the 3 year one this time so we don't have to do it again for a while.

My car is great, but I'm still getting used to it. I had what my son called "The smallest car on earth", and this one is more midsized so parking is alittle tricky to judge. I would probably have prefered a smaller car but we were thinking of times John has to transfer in and out of it, so alittle bigger is better. Being that my last car was 20yrs old, it had no modern conveniences. I am loving electric windows and cruise control! It's amazing how little stupid things make me happy. :D

Everyone have a great weekend!

Cindy

Wow! You guys have really had the snow. I'd be going crazy with it by now. I don't like it when it's too cold! I would not do well in your weather.

Okay, how'd you know about Brenda being a Hearing Dog? You are so in-tune. You are what we call in my business "a true connector." I do sign language but mostly lip reading.

Sorry about your neck and shoulders. I have a torn rotator on the right shoulder and every once in a while it gives me a "wake-up" call - now, ask how I got it? From throwing Brenny's balls. Funny, ehh!!!! The doctor said "ice" than "heat" and, you know what, it really works. Go get a bag of peas out of the freezer, put some paper towels around it and put it on your neck [only for about 5 minutes], then apply a hot wash rag and......you're cured!!!!!

Good luck on your re-cert, you'll get the 3 years and it's so much easier. Wexy's a smart boy, he knows what John wants and John's a good handler, it will all go well! Tell him I send my best wishes.

I'm glad your new car is working out so good for you. I don't think I could ever go back to driving a regular car again. Isn't cruise control the best!!!! And, I don't call these "little" things, they help to make our lives easier, we have enough going on to make it more difficult. Have fun, be safe and look out for the weirdo's! :D Like me, this morning, a lady who thought you can make a right hand turn from the far left lane........What was she thinking!!!!!!!:eek: :mad:

[DisneyKidsDad]

Heatwave Roz??? We just had a few inches of snow today. I actually had to go out clean off the van and shovel Johns spot. I couldn't believe it!! It's 35 out and snow showers for the rest of the day.

I haven't been around lately I have been having a problem with my neck and shoulders. Once in a while I must sleep wrong or something and wake up hardly moving, but it goes away after a week or so.

I went back and read all previous posts, alot going on. I have to say I already knew Brenny was a hearing dog. But it was none of my business to mention it. I'm glad you talked about it and gave us a glimpse into your life. Obviously John is in a wheelchair, so he doesn't mind talking about his disability. But I realize some people don't. We(my ex and myself) had a deaf girl live with us for a while years and years ago. I learned how to sign the alphabet, but of course my brain function is way down at this age and I don't remember a thing. :(

We have to recertify in a few weeks and of course John is already in a frenzy :rolleyes: I don't understand why he is like that. Wex is in great shape, and is an awesome dog. And that dog just knows when something special is going on and needs to be at his best. He really turns it on when he needs to. Hopefully we will get the 3 year one this time so we don't have to do it again for a while.

My car is great, but I'm still getting used to it. I had what my son called "The smallest car on earth", and this one is more midsized so parking is alittle tricky to judge. I would probably have prefered a smaller car but we were thinking of times John has to transfer in and out of it, so alittle bigger is better. Being that my last car was 20yrs old, it had no modern conveniences. I am loving electric windows and cruise control! It's amazing how little stupid things make me happy. :D

Everyone have a great weekend!

Cindy

Cindy,

Tell John not to worry about the recert. The 3 year was the easiest one yet. The trainers know you know what your doing and they also understand that the dogs are not as sharp as they were when you first got them. When we did our 3 year, they mentioned that Orson wasn't sitting exactly the way they would like when he was at a heal. But they said if we were OK with it then no big deal.

[rangeley]

Roz, Don't you know that I know everything. ;) I actually read a post on another site a long long time ago that you had written. I know CA is the only place that trains hearing dogs, but they did mention that the NE region might train them sometime soon.


Now its raining :mad: Like they say in New England "wait a minute and the weather will be different". I bet the sun comes out before the day is over.

[rangeley]

Thanks Den, I know that John and Wex will do great. He's such a worry wart!!!! I will tell him what you said, maybe he will relax alittle.

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz, Don't you know that I know everything. ;) I actually read a post on another site a long long time ago that you had written. I know CA is the only place that trains hearing dogs, but they did mention that the NE region might train them sometime soon.


Now its raining :mad: Like they say in New England "wait a minute and the weather will be different". I bet the sun comes out before the day is over.

I have no doubt in my mind that you are a very wise woman. Yes, the Hearing Dogs are trained in Santa Rosa, Ca. If you ever want to treat yourself to the very best that CCI has to offer take a trip to the Santa Rosa campus. Unbelieveably beautiful. I wouldn't mind spending my days there, everyday!!!!!

There's a huge statue of Snoopy as you enter the campus. Thank Dog for Charles Shultz and all that he and his wife Jean did for CCI way back in the 70's and even to this day. :)

[wizard-of-roz]

My Brenda started her career in Oceanside, Ca. as an Assistant Dog to a woman in a wheel chair. Only to be returned, after several months because she said she couldn't handle Brenny's personality.

CCI decided that Brenda was way to smart to pull from the program and she was becoming depressed [afterall she had bonded with this woman.] Thank goodness for their good insights. She was flown to Santa Rosa to be observed and retrained. This would give Brenda a chance to start over, in a positive setting, hopefully to forget the bad experience. She was 6 months older than her classmates and so wise to the world.

She was the only Hearing Dog that could open doors, drawers, push the elevator button, pick things off the floor and on and on. And, I was the lucky recipient. She can put on quite a show of her talents.

I'm sorry for that woman [she missed out on the most amazing dog] but I'm so glad for me!!!!!

[rangeley]

My Brenda started her career in Oceanside, Ca. as an Assistant Dog to a woman in a wheel chair. Only to be returned, after several months because she said she couldn't handle Brenny's personality.

CCI decided that Brenda was way to smart to pull from the program and she was becoming depressed [afterall she had bonded with this woman.] Thank goodness for their good insights. She was flown to Santa Rosa to be observed and retrained. This would give Brenda a chance to start over, in a positive setting, hopefully to forget the bad experience. She was 6 months older than her classmates and so wise to the world.

She was the only Hearing Dog that could open doors, drawers, push the elevator button, pick things off the floor and on and on. And, I was the lucky recipient. She can put on quite a show of her talents.

I'm sorry for that woman [she missed out on the most amazing dog] but I'm so glad for me!!!!!




Thats funny Roz, cuz someone else was suppose to get Wex, but the guy broke his leg a week before training. Funny how things work out. Unfortunately that guy missed out on the greatest dog. Sorry for him, but so happy for us!!!! :D I hear he finally got his dog, but not the best one!!!;)

[rangeley]

I have no doubt in my mind that you are a very wise woman. Yes, the Hearing Dogs are trained in Santa Rosa, Ca. If you ever want to treat yourself to the very best that CCI has to offer take a trip to the Santa Rosa campus. Unbelieveably beautiful. I wouldn't mind spending my days there, everyday!!!!!

There's a huge statue of Snoopy as you enter the campus. Thank Dog for Charles Shultz and all that he and his wife Jean did for CCI way back in the 70's and even to this day. :)


I'm not sure how wise I am. High school education, but alot of life experience. I think being divorced and being a single parent makes one very wise,tough and guarded. You certainly learn alot about life. I am much more assertive than I used to be, I've learned to take care of myself and of course my son. And I'm very handy and an expert in fixing wheelchairs! :D;)

At the NE campus, I think the driveway is Shultz Drive. I'm sure Den can comfirm that.

[DisneyKidsDad]

I'm not sure how wise I am. High school education, but alot of life experience. I think being divorced and being a single parent makes one very wise,tough and guarded. You certainly learn alot about life. I am much more assertive than I used to be, I've learned to take care of myself and of course my son. And I'm very handy and an expert in fixing wheelchairs! :D;)

At the NE campus, I think the driveway is Shultz Drive. I'm sure Den can comfirm that.

Geezzz Cindy...talk about putting me on the spot. :eek: But yes, I think you are right.

[wizard-of-roz]

Thats funny Roz, cuz someone else was suppose to get Wex, but the guy broke his leg a week before training. Funny how things work out. Unfortunately that guy missed out on the greatest dog. Sorry for him, but so happy for us!!!! :D I hear he finally got his dog, but not the best one!!!;)


You see, this is what I'm talking about......It's the "fate" thing. Wexy was "meant" to be yours!!!

Oh! No! This is what's also scaring me about Team Training and "fate!" The next Team Training is during the week that we'll be on our cruise. What if that's the class that they have a dog for me? And, I'll be missing my dog, meant just for me....... I don't dare cancel the cruise.....actually, I can't, there are other friends and family who have planned to be on it and it would definitely be wrong of me to cancel.

Cindy, you know everything. When's the next Hearing Team Training after September? I may have to wait until next year. Will I be missing the very dog that was meant just for me and who will love Brenny too?????? Stop!!!!

[sunshine426]

OK, on a doggy note. I am so pleased with Cooler. Last week she went to work with me, and for along time no one even knew she was there as she was so quiet under the desk...then I have joined several different groups for lunch. OK, imagine meeting a dog or two you don't know, and then they ASK you to ignore all those wonderful smells, but to lie quietly under the table, and they bring you a PIZZA~ Seriously, these dogs are wonderful......

When you guys talk about the special place the dogs make and the variables that were in place before you received these dogs....magic... I know Wex was meant for John and that Brenda was Roz's dog long before she met here. Of course I hope the same is in place for my "Crackers' who I have not seen or heard from for 9 months...., but cooler makes up for it.

Thank goodness we have these fabulous furry friends.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

OK, on a doggy note. I am so pleased with Cooler. Last week she went to work with me, and for along time no one even knew she was there as she was so quiet under the desk...then I have joined several different groups for lunch. OK, imagine meeting a dog or two you don't know, and then they ASK you to ignore all those wonderful smells, but to lie quietly under the table, and they bring you a PIZZA~ Seriously, these dogs are wonderful......

When you guys talk about the special place the dogs make and the variables that were in place before you received these dogs....magic... I know Wex was meant for John and that Brenda was Roz's dog long before she met here. Of course I hope the same is in place for my "Crackers' who I have not seen or heard from for 9 months...., but cooler makes up for it.

Thank goodness we have these fabulous furry friends.

Awwww! Nine months is a long time. That's got to be the hardest part of what you do. You put all your efforts and love into these amazing dogs only to posssibly never hear or see of them again. And, you continue to do it over and over again. You are such a miracle to me. Your efforts on behalf of strangers is beyond imagination. In the story of the Working/Service Dog YOU folks, the Puppyraisers and trainers are the true hero's behind the hero's.

Now, back to the dogs......the fact that the pups can sit under a table where the smell of pizza is wafting in the air and not spin in circles in the effort to get to it is a show of remarkable control and respect for their handler.

[rangeley]

Geezzz Cindy...talk about putting me on the spot. :eek: But yes, I think you are right.

Ahhhh comeon, you know everything about CCI!!

[rangeley]

You see, this is what I'm talking about......It's the "fate" thing. Wexy was "meant" to be yours!!!

Oh! No! This is what's also scaring me about Team Training and "fate!" The next Team Training is during the week that we'll be on our cruise. What if that's the class that they have a dog for me? And, I'll be missing my dog, meant just for me....... I don't dare cancel the cruise.....actually, I can't, there are other friends and family who have planned to be on it and it would definitely be wrong of me to cancel.

Cindy, you know everything. When's the next Hearing Team Training after September? I may have to wait until next year. Will I be missing the very dog that was meant just for me and who will love Brenny too?????? Stop!!!!


I would say the next hearing dog grad after Sept is going to be January 2012. If they have a dog and you can't make it, that just means someone else was meant for that dog and you are waiting for your special baby next time around. Did you tell them you cannot make it in Sept??

[rangeley]

OK, on a doggy note. I am so pleased with Cooler. Last week she went to work with me, and for along time no one even knew she was there as she was so quiet under the desk...then I have joined several different groups for lunch. OK, imagine meeting a dog or two you don't know, and then they ASK you to ignore all those wonderful smells, but to lie quietly under the table, and they bring you a PIZZA~ Seriously, these dogs are wonderful......

When you guys talk about the special place the dogs make and the variables that were in place before you received these dogs....magic... I know Wex was meant for John and that Brenda was Roz's dog long before she met here. Of course I hope the same is in place for my "Crackers' who I have not seen or heard from for 9 months...., but cooler makes up for it.

Thank goodness we have these fabulous furry friends.

I don't know how these dogs can smell food and not react at all. One thing I have noticed with Wex and Rangeley, if there is a piece of food under the table where they are laying, they eat it!! How can they not? We know they aren't suppose to touch it, but could you lay there for an hour or two with a fry next to your nose and not eat it? I think that is alot to ask from a dog. There whole life is food. We don't yell if Wex does that, he can't help it. But we don't like it either.

I can't even imagine being a puppy raiser or a volunteer, and having to let one of these dogs go out of my life forever. I know Crackers was special to you and how hard it must be not to have him there anymore. All of our puppy raisers put on a good front, but I'm sure inside they are so sad. I think they invited us to their class because they want to see the outcome and how happy their dogs are making someone. It must make them feel good inside to see their hard work in action. And maybe it eases their pain. You know we have one girl that has raised 17 puppies? 17, can you believe it? She's incredible!! Ok made myself cry, thats enough.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

Okay, first of all Ms. Roz, if it was meant to be then you would be at that September class and get "a dog". Since it is not meant to be for you to be there, then the next class is going to have an even better suited dog for you! And, you will never know the difference of the "other" dog! My personal feeling, their are not any graduating Labrodoodles in the September class, but alas, there will be one in the next class with Roz, Maury and Ms. Brenny's name all over it! :D

[Rolls Royce Lover]

I would say the next hearing dog grad after Sept is going to be January 2012. If they have a dog and you can't make it, that just means someone else was meant for that dog and you are waiting for your special baby next time around. Did you tell them you cannot make it in Sept??

You have such a wonderful way of putting it and, here comes a tear.......I didn't tell CCI about my upcoming plans [which have been in the works for over a year] when I had my phone interview [that would have been the perfect time to let them know], I wasn't thinking about Team Training dates then.

My "in person" interview is on June 24th, I'll tell them that I can't do the September training [I suppose this is where the "fate" thing steps in], and, I'll have to wait until the next one. It gives me more time with Brenny.

I have a dilemma [a good on, I must say] which will delay my bringing a new dog into my life as soon as I'd like - that said, my family & friends are also a very important part of who I am and this scheduled time with them is a must for me.

We who have a Working/Service Dog know how important our dogs are to us and we're used to challenges.......for me, this is a challenge I'm up to.

And, this will give me extra months to spend with Brenny, alone.

[Quampapetet]

Quam: Now the dogs following the stick figure commands gave me the chills! I know growing up we had to spell certain words, when we were riding in the car with our dog, cause he would go ballistic. Two I remember were squirrel and cow! I just thought about that. I just see Jezzy Lou reading a book, along with me! LOL. They are amazing furbabies and I really think their learning ability is beyond what I know I thought possible.

I know what you mean! I have to spell words sometimes, too. Usually food-related words. ;) And I call fireworks "FWs" 'cause my dog hates fireworks but knows the name of them. A friend of mine can't say "squirrel" around her (pet) dogs 'cause they know what that means, so she calls them "SQs".

That's a funny image - a dog reading a book along with you! :)

[Quampapetet]

Oh and Quam, I have missed you! I kept checking this thread yesterday, and nothing. No one else around. Then bam, Quam showed up! I love reading your knowledgeable posts, even though I don't have a service dog, I am an advocate for you guys. It gives me lots of information and if I were to ever see an incident like Roz was involved in, I would definitely stand up and give them a piece of my mind. Ignorance is no excuse and rudeness is definitely not going to get anyone anywhere with me. People should really memorize and follow, "Treat people the way you want to be treated!" Period.

I know I can speak for the others here when I say it is great what you do and how you continue to learn about service dogs! :cool: Thanks for saying you'd stand up for somebody in an access crisis, too! That would definitely be helpful. I hope the "What Would You Do?" TV show has opened others' eyes to service dog access and hopefully they, too, would stand up for others in such a situation.

[Quampapetet]

I just returned from a cruise to the Mexican Riviera on Holland America. We were able to go ashore with my dog using a letter from my vet documenting all of the information noted above. There was no request for an international health certificate (one issued by the US Government through the USAD APHIS office that requires presenting in person or sending off information to them.). I did take a health certificate issued by my local, licensed vet with the letter. I was praised for the efficiency of my paperwork and my dog was cleared with the entire passenger load. I had expected to have her individually inspected but she was not. When I requested additional information since I did not want to get off if there were problems, I was told that she cleared with flying colors but that the week before they had an SD that did not clear due to lack of detail regarding worming and probably lack of clarity of the info on the rabies vaccinations. While I was sorry to hear about the other SD not being allowed off the ship, I was reassured that someone actually did review the information. On shore we had no difficulties but I did stay on an excursion and did not go out on my own.

But did you have fun?! ;)

Just to clarify what you said, an int'l health certificate does NOT always require the USDA endorsement nor is it issued by the gov't. Your vet fills it out just like he did for your Mexico trip. The endorsement is only required if the certain country it is for requires such a thing. Mexico is not one such country, but some Caribbean countries like Turks & Caicos and either or both St. Lucia and St. Kitts (I went to both those on the same cruise and can't recall which required it or if they both did) do require the endorsement. All an endorsement is is a USDA employee (who is a vet) checks to make sure the paperwork is done completely and correctly. They do not see the dog at all. It just takes them a few minutes to look over the paperwork and endorse the health certificate if it is all in order. I guess the purpose must be so countries don't have to send back, quarantine, or kill ppl's animals when they don't comply with the requirements. (The endorsement is free for service dogs if you bring proof of your dog being a service dog/of the dog's training.)

As you said, you did have the health certificate. This is the same as the one the USDA endorses, it just is that you didn't need it endorsed for Mexico.

I hope the person who couldn't get off in Mexico didn't have a problem getting back into the States!

[Quampapetet]

Welcome back, Quam,

Retiring our dogs takes a lot of thinking about. Brenda will be 11 in a few months and it's time, it's just not as easy to do as some would think.

Your trainers will certainly give you all the good advice when you go for re-certification.

We're all here to support you.

I was thinking the other day, be sure to tell CCI that your dog will need to know how to potty in a small box filled with a variety of substrates and also should know how to potty on a potty pad (i.e. for airport bathrooms if you decide to attempt flying with or without that husband of yours). :)

Your dog also needs to know how to battle the chair hogs!!! :p

[Quampapetet]

In the office Brenda used to "alert" me when someone called my name, which was very often and poor thing, I didn't realize how many times folks were calling me. After the first couple of weeks I realized that this was grossly unfair.

[snipped for brevity...]



That is really cool, especially how she learned to adapt at the office and all! :D I love how you communicate in ASL with her, too.

[Quampapetet]

The people who's offices face this area are always in awe of what Brenda can do and how responsive she is to me. They, sometimes, will give me"requests" of what they want Brenda to do. It's fun and it keeps her "sharp!"

Haha, that sounds like my brother for the first year or so I had my dog. Whenever I'd see him, he'd always ask me to have her do something. :p And one time we had a birthday party for him and I had my dog deliver a card from me (or was it one "from" her? I can't remember) to him via her take it/give it commands (part of retrieval work) - one of his friends was floored and made me have her do it again, LOL! Some ppl are amused by the simplest of things!

Dogs love having a job to do and Brenda has a very strong work ethic. She will go out on the grass, preparing for play and sniffing but will first look at me to see if there are any directions or work for her to do......I say "release" and she becomes the most playful, romping, fun-loving and spirited Labrador in the world! :D

Yup, they do, which is why it saddens me when ppl feel sorry for our dogs for working. Our dogs LOVE to work! Just look at their happy tails!

[Quampapetet]

I just wanted to pop on for a minute to thank everyone who provided me with information for my service dog presentation. It was yesterday and went very well but I'm also dealing with a seriously ill parent right now so I've not been able to respond and thank everyone properly for their help. Believe me, I appreciate all your posts and information.

Kathi

I hope your parent will be okay!! That definitely comes first!

(Glad your presentation went well, too.)

[Quampapetet]

Thank you for posting these links. I feel like I'm getting the run around and no one knows EXACTLY what I need. We are traveling to Mexico via air for a wedding on the 8th and returning on the 10th. I've been told so many different things from different people (Call the USDA, USDA tells me to call the state vet, they told me to call my local vet, vet tells me to pull papers from the embassy). According to the Mexican Embassy, I need a rabies and distemper certificate and not an international one. We are getting the international one from the vet anyway. I don't need problems, especially since I've been told I do need one from other sources.

From what I've been told I need the health cert within 10 days of travel. The embassy said 5. I rescheduled the appt for within 2 days of travel. I'm so stressed out by this upcoming trip that I don't even feel like I want to go.

When I went to Mexico, it was in '08 (so things may have changed since then) and on a cruise (so things may have been more lenient), but all that was needed was the health certificate (also bring the rabies certificate just in case the health certificate isn't filled out completely by accident) and it needed to be done within 48 hours of travel. (Since I was on a cruise, I did it 48 hours before I left for my one-day pre-cruise hotel stay.)

IMO, I don't think Mexico is too picky....

[cjborne2]

I'm definately getting the international permit despite the embassy employee telling me I don't need it and will make sure the distemper and rabies is up to date. Unfortunately he has an 3 year rabies shot now so I think he'll need a booster. I plan on carrying all the paper work with us on all his vaccines and will bring extra copies as someone else suggested.

I'm feeling better about the dog and the travel. Now I have to figure out what I'm going to wear and dig my summer clothes out of the attic :)

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

CJ: Sounds like you are on a roll! It still alittle chilly here to think about summer clothes! But the warm weather sounds great!

I have a middle ear infection that is seriously hurting. I try not to be a baby, but in the middle of night it hurt so bad it almost made me cry. I have a rice pack, (Rice sewed up in cloth and then put in a sock) that you heat in the microwave. I have to say the weight and warmth felt really good. I also have a sinus infection but the antibotics are taking care of that quickly, ear not so much.

Hope everyone has a nice week.

[wizard-of-roz]

I'm definately getting the international permit despite the embassy employee telling me I don't need it and will make sure the distemper and rabies is up to date. Unfortunately he has an 3 year rabies shot now so I think he'll need a booster. I plan on carrying all the paper work with us on all his vaccines and will bring extra copies as someone else suggested.

I'm feeling better about the dog and the travel. Now I have to figure out what I'm going to wear and dig my summer clothes out of the attic :)


You have a wonderful time! I'm glad you're feeling better about traveling with your dog.

I used to "stress" the travel with Brenda, I no longer do.

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:

CJ: Sounds like you are on a roll! It still alittle chilly here to think about summer clothes! But the warm weather sounds great!

I have a middle ear infection that is seriously hurting. I try not to be a baby, but in the middle of night it hurt so bad it almost made me cry. I have a rice pack, (Rice sewed up in cloth and then put in a sock) that you heat in the microwave. I have to say the weight and warmth felt really good. I also have a sinus infection but the antibotics are taking care of that quickly, ear not so much.

Hope everyone has a nice week.





Nancy, that's awful for you. :( I hope you're on the mend and not having as much pain as you were. Take care of you.

[Latitude 20]

I hope your parent will be okay!! That definitely comes first!

(Glad your presentation went well, too.)

Thanks Quam (and Roz too--I wasn't able to reply then). We hope Mom will be able to come home from the hospital tomorrow.

[cjborne2]

Hope you feel better SS. Ear infections are no joke!

We had a beautiful day yesterday, but I think it's back to heavier jackets here today. I am definately not in summer (or even spring) clothes mode yet!

Vet appointment is tomorrow. I'll be happy to get that behind us too.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Thanks for the well wishes. Antibiotics are great. Still weak, the ear keeps plugging up and then popping, but is not hurting, yeah!

Off work today, back tomorrow. Lets see what the little munchkins can give me next! Daycare crude is so delightful.

Jezzy Lou is sound asleep in the sock monkey bed. Her and Leann Emily share it, off and on. The other one usually uses the generic paw print bed. Both are in the window seat. Go figure that the dog and cat get the window seat and mom gets aced out of it! Thats okay, when babies are content mama is content.

[wizard-of-roz]

Thanks Quam (and Roz too--I wasn't able to reply then). We hope Mom will be able to come home from the hospital tomorrow.

You are so welcome! I hope your Mother's days are easier for her.

[wizard-of-roz]

Hope you feel better SS. Ear infections are no joke!

We had a beautiful day yesterday, but I think it's back to heavier jackets here today. I am definately not in summer (or even spring) clothes mode yet!

Vet appointment is tomorrow. I'll be happy to get that behind us too.

Here, in L.A., it's summer today, will be winter tomorrow? :o :confused:

The Vet appointment makes me as nervous as it makes Brenda. :rolleyes:

Of course taking my kids to the Pediatrician did the same to me! What's up with that?

[wizard-of-roz]

Mornin' all:
Thanks for the well wishes. Antibiotics are great. Still weak, the ear keeps plugging up and then popping, but is not hurting, yeah!

Off work today, back tomorrow. Lets see what the little munchkins can give me next! Daycare crude is so delightful.

Jezzy Lou is sound asleep in the sock monkey bed. Her and Leann Emily share it, off and on. The other one usually uses the generic paw print bed. Both are in the window seat. Go figure that the dog and cat get the window seat and mom gets aced out of it! Thats okay, when babies are content mama is content.


Awww! Kids - The petri dishes of diseases! I'm glad your on the road to recovery.

[sunshine426]

A rambling post but it has been a rough few weeks. Rich's mom has been very sick and in and out of ICU. I don't think we have turned a corner yet, but things have settled down that I can have another dog visit. I'm one happy girl. I have Cracker's Sister home for a two night home visit. She does know me as we have been on outings together, but this is the first time she has spent the night. I feel like "Aunt Sunshine", but I am resisting the impulse to spoil her rotten....and yet, she and Sandy are at my feet gnawing on rawhides.... Off to play ball toss, but only after she has at least done a nice sit and down....OK, please the dog is almost 2, she has all of her advanced commands.

[wizard-of-roz]

A rambling post but it has been a rough few weeks. Rich's mom has been very sick and in and out of ICU. I don't think we have turned a corner yet, but things have settled down that I can have another dog visit. I'm one happy girl. I have Cracker's Sister home for a two night home visit. She does know me as we have been on outings together, but this is the first time she has spent the night. I feel like "Aunt Sunshine", but I am resisting the impulse to spoil her rotten....and yet, she and Sandy are at my feet gnawing on rawhides.... Off to play ball toss, but only after she has at least done a nice sit and down....OK, please the dog is almost 2, she has all of her advanced commands.

I'm sorry about your MIL, I hope she has an easy time.....I'll say a prayer for her.

You NEED to have these dog visits to re-group, re-think and re-charge! ;)

The organization thinks you're helping them.......we all know who's really helping who!!!! :)

[sunshine426]

I'm sorry about your MIL, I hope she has an easy time.....I'll say a prayer for her.

You NEED to have these dog visits to re-group, re-think and re-charge! ;)

The organization thinks you're helping them.......we all know who's really helping who!!!! :)

I know exactly who is helping who. This dog is so sweet. I love her for herself, not to mention the common genetics.

[wizard-of-roz]

I know exactly who is helping who. This dog is so sweet. I love her for herself, not to mention the common genetics.

Honestly, I've only had Brenda for 9 years........how did I ever live my life without her before? Or, for that matter without a Service Dog in it! :rolleyes:

I was only just "getting along", I guess I wasn't really living!!!! ;)

[sunshine426]

Having fun with "Pepper" in the house. She is helping me with the house hold chores and likes taking the dry clothes out of the dryer and helping me put them in the basket. If I had her a few more days, maybe she would be doing the dishes and making beds. I'll rename her Cindarella!!!;) We plan on a nice long loose leash walk this afternoon to keep both of us healthy. The girl likes her food as much as I do. She is going to make someone a fine service dog at our next camp. As much as I love working with the puppies, having an adult well trained, well mannered, dog in the house is kind of nice.:D

[cjborne2]

I have the international certificate from the vet. I was advised to call Annapolis to see if I needed the official raised seal. The vet thought I did. I called and the USDA in Annapolis said no. I think I also read that it was not necessary on here as well. Has that been your experience?

Does Canada need the seal? (Thinking ahead for our June cruise).

[wizard-of-roz]

Having fun with "Pepper" in the house. She is helping me with the house hold chores and likes taking the dry clothes out of the dryer and helping me put them in the basket. If I had her a few more days, maybe she would be doing the dishes and making beds. I'll rename her Cindarella!!!;) We plan on a nice long loose leash walk this afternoon to keep both of us healthy. The girl likes her food as much as I do. She is going to make someone a fine service dog at our next camp. As much as I love working with the puppies, having an adult well trained, well mannered, dog in the house is kind of nice.:D

Lucky "Pepper" to have you in her life.

You know, it makes me think about when Brenda first came home with me......although very well trained, she had some "ill mannered" qualities about herself, especially upon approaching another dog or person. She ALWAYS needed to be "corrected" from over-reacting.

Now, as a senior dog, she has more manners and knows that it's innappropriate to "lunge" at other dogs and people. Although, she could still do it.......she looks at me [like a kid who's looking for discipline] before she over-does it.

Yep! I do love the "adult well trained" in her, with just a smattering of "puppieness!" ;)

[wizard-of-roz]

I have the international certificate from the vet. I was advised to call Annapolis to see if I needed the official raised seal. The vet thought I did. I called and the USDA in Annapolis said no. I think I also read that it was not necessary on here as well. Has that been your experience?

Does Canada need the seal? (Thinking ahead for our June cruise).

You are very good to go both in Mexico and Canada.

Have a very safe and happy journey. :)

[sparky-elpaso]

Lucky "Pepper" to have you in her life.

You know, it makes me think about when Brenda first came home with me......although very well trained, she had some "ill mannered" qualities about herself, especially upon approaching another dog or person. She ALWAYS needed to be "corrected" from over-reacting.

Now, as a senior dog, she has more manners and knows that it's innappropriate to "lunge" at other dogs and people. Although, she could still do it.......she looks at me [like a kid who's looking for discipline] before she over-does it.

Yep! I do love the "adult well trained" in her, with just a smattering of "puppieness!" ;)

I love these stories. All these dogs do such an incredible job - no matter what they're trained for. When I worked for the City we had a lady who would come to speak at City Council meetings - with her leader dog - a black lab who looked a lot like yours. I was on the elevator with them and the dog was sniffing my hand - rather loudly. Mrs. Blair said "I hear that sniffing - are you behaving yourself?" I told her the dog probably smelled my cat.

[wizard-of-roz]

I love these stories. All these dogs do such an incredible job - no matter what they're trained for. When I worked for the City we had a lady who would come to speak at City Council meetings - with her leader dog - a black lab who looked a lot like yours. I was on the elevator with them and the dog was sniffing my hand - rather loudly. Mrs. Blair said "I hear that sniffing - are you behaving yourself?" I told her the dog probably smelled my cat.

Sparky: Thanks for sharing your story. Sniffing is the most difficult thing to stop a dog from doing. I say; "Brenda, don't sniff!" and, she'll immediately stop! Amazing!

I just returned from a staff meeting where there was 150 people in attendance. One gal came right over to where Brenda and I were sitting and sat on the floor, next to her, totally "breaking" her from her "down/stay" and, turning her into a "dog!" I could have made a scene about it; corrected Brenda; embarrassed her; made a commotion, etc., etc.

Brenda was NOT working, she was resting and "stuff" happens. The woman knows Brenda is a Service Dog, she know better than to distract her but these dogs are so hard to resist and when they're seen in a working environment, they're a "miracle" to see, I totally understand the overwhelming thing that takes over a dog lover and they just have to meld with the dog. Does it make it harder on me, when the person has fulfilled their need to touch the dog, you bet! But, I do understand it.

And, I'd much rather come across someone who's madly in love with my dog, than someone who is angry faced and even more angry toned toward our presence!!!!! :(

[cjborne2]

You are very good to go both in Mexico and Canada.

Whew! Thanks.

[Quampapetet]

I'm definately getting the international permit despite the embassy employee telling me I don't need it and will make sure the distemper and rabies is up to date. Unfortunately he has an 3 year rabies shot now so I think he'll need a booster. I plan on carrying all the paper work with us on all his vaccines and will bring extra copies as someone else suggested.

I'm feeling better about the dog and the travel. Now I have to figure out what I'm going to wear and dig my summer clothes out of the attic :)

The "three-year" and the "one-year" rabies vaccines are the exact same, just with different labels on them. (And they both last a lot longer than three years; hopefully the Rabies Challenge Study will get states and countries to start changing their laws!)

Core vaccines like distemper last longer than the one to three years most vets recommend; do titers to find out if your dog should be revaccinated or not. I do titers for the core vaccines every year at the annual exam (so that no country I travel to can complain about the results being old - if you're not travelling, you likely won't need to test every year).

Be good to yourself and get some new clothes for your trip! ;) You can find some good prices on new clothes (and shoes) on eBay. I just did that for my Vegas trip and got some really cool shirts and dresses. :D

[Quampapetet]

I have a middle ear infection that is seriously hurting. I try not to be a baby, but in the middle of night it hurt so bad it almost made me cry. I have a rice pack, (Rice sewed up in cloth and then put in a sock) that you heat in the microwave. I have to say the weight and warmth felt really good. I also have a sinus infection but the antibotics are taking care of that quickly, ear not so much.

Sorry to hear about your illness! That is not fun at all!! :( Yeah, the sinus infection can move into your ears and become an ear infection; this is what a doc told me a few years ago when I saw him for a cold that was about to move into my ears (I thought it already head, since I had woken up with an earache, but it hadn't quite yet). Definitely keep taking the meds! Feel better!

[Quampapetet]

Thanks Quam (and Roz too--I wasn't able to reply then). We hope Mom will be able to come home from the hospital tomorrow.

I'm glad you have some good news!! :D

[Quampapetet]

I have the international certificate from the vet. I was advised to call Annapolis to see if I needed the official raised seal. The vet thought I did. I called and the USDA in Annapolis said no. I think I also read that it was not necessary on here as well. Has that been your experience?

Does Canada need the seal? (Thinking ahead for our June cruise).

This is for Mexico, correct? You don't need the endorsement (the seal) for Mexico.

I'm fairly sure Canada doesn't need the seal either.

[cjborne2]

We made it back from Mexico. What a pain. Maybe it's different while going into the country on a cruise ship but once we got to the airport, they brought us to the area to look at the papers. I had the international certificate, rabies and distemper certification, but because the paper did not have the date that he last had his frontline and heartworm treatment (which was about 2 weeks ago), there were problems. They called a vet and for $50 cash, US dollars, they gave the dog some pill (sealed in a package) to treat intestinal parasites. (I should say my husband gave the dog the pill. The vet didn't even look at the dog, pet him, etc.) The agricultural official was filling out the paperwork to clear him through customs before the vet even got there. This must be somewhat common because there was a business card stapled into the phone book of the doctor they called. "Hola, Pedro! Que pasa?" which meant to me that he's there frequently. I said to my husband that I bet the vet and the official split the money.

When we got back to the US, the US customs official that reviewed our paperwork said it's a 50/50 on what the Mexicans want.

Anyway, the trip was short and we could have used another day, but we needed to conserve my husband's vacation time for the cruise in June. The resort was just beautiful. Extremely clean and the staff was very friendly. They were great with the dog once we got it straight at the restaurant that it was OK for him to be there (I had that paper too). "Ooh perro, muy bonito" was a phrase we heard a lot. I highly recommend this place. If anyone would like the info, I'd be happy to share.

Now moving onto the science fair, dance recitals, and little league before the end of the school year and our trip to Alaska!

[DisneyKidsDad]

We made it back from Mexico. What a pain. Maybe it's different while going into the country on a cruise ship but once we got to the airport, they brought us to the area to look at the papers. I had the international certificate, rabies and distemper certification, but because the paper did not have the date that he last had his frontline and heartworm treatment (which was about 2 weeks ago), there were problems. They called a vet and for $50 cash, US dollars, they gave the dog some pill (sealed in a package) to treat intestinal parasites. (I should say my husband gave the dog the pill. The vet didn't even look at the dog, pet him, etc.) The agricultural official was filling out the paperwork to clear him through customs before the vet even got there. This must be somewhat common because there was a business card stapled into the phone book of the doctor they called. "Hola, Pedro! Que pasa?" which meant to me that he's there frequently. I said to my husband that I bet the vet and the official split the money.

When we got back to the US, the US customs official that reviewed our paperwork said it's a 50/50 on what the Mexicans want.

Anyway, the trip was short and we could have used another day, but we needed to conserve my husband's vacation time for the cruise in June. The resort was just beautiful. Extremely clean and the staff was very friendly. They were great with the dog once we got it straight at the restaurant that it was OK for him to be there (I had that paper too). "Ooh perro, muy bonito" was a phrase we heard a lot. I highly recommend this place. If anyone would like the info, I'd be happy to share.

Now moving onto the science fair, dance recitals, and little league before the end of the school year and our trip to Alaska!

I bet the pill was a sugar pill just to make it seem like the $50 was more than just a bribe. We had the same type of thing when we were on a cruise and stopped at Tortola. There were two other service dogs on the cruise. They had to have a "vet" come on board to "check" the dogs. She glanced at the paperwork and held her hand out for $20 cash per dog. She never even saw the dogs. They could have been pigs for all she knew. But at least it all went pretty smooth for you.

[sd1]

I bet the pill was a sugar pill just to make it seem like the $50 was more than just a bribe. We had the same type of thing when we were on a cruise and stopped at Tortola. There were two other service dogs on the cruise. They had to have a "vet" come on board to "check" the dogs. She glanced at the paperwork and held her hand out for $20 cash per dog. She never even saw the dogs. They could have been pigs for all she knew. But at least it all went pretty smooth for you.


I just returned from Mexico. I was pretty nervous! As it turned out, we were praised by being so organized. I did email with their officials before I left so that I had in writing what they wanted me to have. I carried that email. I also created a letter with my vet with the following information it.

I also had one of the small certificates of health that a local vet (not USDA for international health certificate). The information in the letter must include a copy of the Vet's official authority to practice. My vet put on letter head and signed it and added her license number.


LETTER CONTENT ( I put XX for fill in your dog)

This letter is to document XX health and vaccination record. XX has been my patient for the past XX years and she and her handler are well known to me.

DATE OF ISSUE OF LETTER
XX –XX-2011

STATEMENT OF HEALTH
XXXX is in good health and is free from internal and external parasites.

OWNER/IMPORTER
XXXXXX (ME)
Address
XXXXXXX
XXXXX. XXXXX
United States of America
Telephone
XXX-XXX-XXXX

DESCRIPTION OF ANIMAL
Species: Dog
Breed: XXXX
Date of Birth: XX-XX-XXXX
Coat: Red Short Hair
Microchip Implanted: 9 December 200x
Number : XXX*XXX*XXX
Location: withers

VACCINATION RECORDS

RABIES
Pfizer Defensor 3 (Killed) Canine Rabies Vaccine, 3 year,
Expires 7 June 2013. Administered 8 June 2010.
Serial S710868, Lot Expiration 26 March 2011
Titer: 4 December 2008 titer greater than 0.05 IU/m

OTHER VACCINES, INCLUDING DISTEMPER AND HEPATITIS
VANGUARD® PLUS 5 canine distemper (CD) virus, infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1), respiratory disease caused by canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), canine parainfluenza caused by canine parainfluenza (CPI) virus, and canine parvoviral enteritis caused by canine parvovirus (CPV). Expires 7 June 2012, given 8 June 2010

PARASITE TREATMENT
Leptospira C., G., I., P. Administered XX-XX-XXX (at least two weeks but not more than 6 months before entry)

Heartworm/Tick Test Expiration Date XX/XX/2010 Date Given XX/XX/XXXX
Internal Parasite exam 4 May 2010

Selamectin expiration XX/XX/XXXX Prescribed and dispensed XX/XX/XXXX. Administered Monthly, last treatment XX/XX/XX (no less than 14 days).

Hope this helps!

[wizard-of-roz]

I just returned from Mexico. I was pretty nervous! As it turned out, we were praised by being so organized. I did email with their officials before I left so that I had in writing what they wanted me to have. I carried that email. I also created a letter with my vet with the following information it.

I also had one of the small certificates of health that a local vet (not USDA for international health certificate). The information in the letter must include a copy of the Vet's official authority to practice. My vet put on letter head and signed it and added her license number.


LETTER CONTENT ( I put XX for fill in your dog)

This letter is to document XX health and vaccination record. XX has been my patient for the past XX years and she and her handler are well known to me.

DATE OF ISSUE OF LETTER
XX –XX-2011

STATEMENT OF HEALTH
XXXX is in good health and is free from internal and external parasites.

OWNER/IMPORTER
XXXXXX (ME)
Address
XXXXXXX
XXXXX. XXXXX
United States of America
Telephone
XXX-XXX-XXXX

DESCRIPTION OF ANIMAL
Species: Dog
Breed: XXXX
Date of Birth: XX-XX-XXXX
Coat: Red Short Hair
Microchip Implanted: 9 December 200x
Number : XXX*XXX*XXX
Location: withers

VACCINATION RECORDS

RABIES
Pfizer Defensor 3 (Killed) Canine Rabies Vaccine, 3 year,
Expires 7 June 2013. Administered 8 June 2010.
Serial S710868, Lot Expiration 26 March 2011
Titer: 4 December 2008 titer greater than 0.05 IU/m

OTHER VACCINES, INCLUDING DISTEMPER AND HEPATITIS
VANGUARD® PLUS 5 canine distemper (CD) virus, infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1), respiratory disease caused by canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), canine parainfluenza caused by canine parainfluenza (CPI) virus, and canine parvoviral enteritis caused by canine parvovirus (CPV). Expires 7 June 2012, given 8 June 2010

PARASITE TREATMENT
Leptospira C., G., I., P. Administered XX-XX-XXX (at least two weeks but not more than 6 months before entry)

Heartworm/Tick Test Expiration Date XX/XX/2010 Date Given XX/XX/XXXX
Internal Parasite exam 4 May 2010

Selamectin expiration XX/XX/XXXX Prescribed and dispensed XX/XX/XXXX. Administered Monthly, last treatment XX/XX/XX (no less than 14 days).

Hope this helps!

You ought to work for the Government [or, do you?] Nicely done. It's what a Certified USDA Vet will have on the Intl. Cert. that he/she will give after the exam. and prior to cruising or travel overseas. There is NOTHING more that Immigration could ask for.

This MUST be signed and dated by a licensed Vet with a contact number on it. You never know if or when an overzealous Immigration Officer will call the Vet to verify everything.

Thanks for passing along all the great information.

[wizard-of-roz]

We made it back from Mexico. What a pain. Maybe it's different while going into the country on a cruise ship but once we got to the airport, they brought us to the area to look at the papers. I had the international certificate, rabies and distemper certification, but because the paper did not have the date that he last had his frontline and heartworm treatment (which was about 2 weeks ago), there were problems. They called a vet and for $50 cash, US dollars, they gave the dog some pill (sealed in a package) to treat intestinal parasites. (I should say my husband gave the dog the pill. The vet didn't even look at the dog, pet him, etc.) The agricultural official was filling out the paperwork to clear him through customs before the vet even got there. This must be somewhat common because there was a business card stapled into the phone book of the doctor they called. "Hola, Pedro! Que pasa?" which meant to me that he's there frequently. I said to my husband that I bet the vet and the official split the money.

When we got back to the US, the US customs official that reviewed our paperwork said it's a 50/50 on what the Mexicans want.

Anyway, the trip was short and we could have used another day, but we needed to conserve my husband's vacation time for the cruise in June. The resort was just beautiful. Extremely clean and the staff was very friendly. They were great with the dog once we got it straight at the restaurant that it was OK for him to be there (I had that paper too). "Ooh perro, muy bonito" was a phrase we heard a lot. I highly recommend this place. If anyone would like the info, I'd be happy to share.

Now moving onto the science fair, dance recitals, and little league before the end of the school year and our trip to Alaska!

The worst part is the intimidation factor. They make you feel like your a criminal and if you don't do as they ask, they're going to take your dog away! :mad:

I'm glad that you're experience was good and I know you're looking forward to Alaska - so worth the wait!!!! :)

I think Brenda loved Alaska as much as we did. The scenery and sights are amazingly beautiful, I couldn't get enough pictures!

[cjborne2]

I felt like we were between a rock and a hard place. My husband was really mad but we had to play their game and the dog had to take whatever it was they gave him or we were getting on the next plane headed home.

I'm going to print out the above notes for international travel in the future. Besides leaving from Vancouver, I don't foresee us travelling out of the country again with the dog, but I think it would be good info to keep. I'd like to take my kids to Niagara Falls someday in the not too distant future so it might come in handy.

We (Ollie too) were in Anchorage several years ago. We had a wonderful time. I'm looking forward to it.

[wizard-of-roz]

I felt like we were between a rock and a hard place. My husband was really mad but we had to play their game and the dog had to take whatever it was they gave him or we were getting on the next plane headed home.

I'm going to print out the above notes for international travel in the future. Besides leaving from Vancouver, I don't foresee us travelling out of the country again with the dog, but I think it would be good info to keep. I'd like to take my kids to Niagara Falls someday in the not too distant future so it might come in handy.

We (Ollie too) were in Anchorage several years ago. We had a wonderful time. I'm looking forward to it.


We had absolutely no problems in Vancouver or elsewhere in Canada. Except for one restaurant who was not too happy to see us. And, after many of our friends said they would leave, they allowed us in!

[sunshine426]

With my MIL still in the hospital, it has been hard to schedule any dog outings or home visits. Just in case we have to make a rapid return to the hospital. Lucky for me, "Pepper's" other mom had her today and I was able to steal for for 30 minutes of hospital visitation and some loving. The area we visited had all known Crackers and everyone just loved on her and commented on the resemblance. (not that most golden retrievers don't look alike....)

[wizard-of-roz]

With my MIL still in the hospital, it has been hard to schedule any dog outings or home visits. Just in case we have to make a rapid return to the hospital. Lucky for me, "Pepper's" other mom had her today and I was able to steal for for 30 minutes of hospital visitation and some loving. The area we visited had all known Crackers and everyone just loved on her and commented on the resemblance. (not that most golden retrievers don't look alike....)


I'm sorry she's still in the hospital.

Aside from my wonderful Black Lab, I think Golden's are about the most beautiful of all the dog world!!!!

[tea4ular]

Oh! I've got black hair all over my house..in places where you would never imagine hair could go! And, I'm a bit of a "clean freak!" That also changed, it took me some time to get used to the change...but, it's so worth it and so is she!

I know you wrote this years ago, but I just began reading the thread tonight. For 12 years my H had a CCI black lab (Hawk II), and once my MIL asked me, "doesn't it bother you to have dog hair all over the house?" to which I said, "if I didn't have a dog it would!" :p

We miss Hawk, then adopted Bruce, a rescue, and now we miss him too. :(

I know the two are frolicking, off leash, enjoying each others company. ;)

Back to reading!

[Island Explorer]

Questions regarding upcoming Panama Canal cruise:

Can anyone tell me about these ports: Cartagena, Puntarenas, Acapulco, and Cabo San Lucas

1) Are service dogs accepted in the culture, and in the shops?
2) Did you have a problem with aggressive stray dogs? or any constantly wanting to follow?

Aside from Mexico, did anyone have any problems entering Colombia or Costa Rica with the required, legal documents for their SD? Does Immigration meet you at the pier?

Sorry if they've already been answered in the 242 previous pages (though I've read a bunch of them.)

Thanks for the help.

Linda

[wizard-of-roz]

I know you wrote this years ago, but I just began reading the thread tonight. For 12 years my H had a CCI black lab (Hawk II), and once my MIL asked me, "doesn't it bother you to have dog hair all over the house?" to which I said, "if I didn't have a dog it would!" :p

We miss Hawk, then adopted Bruce, a rescue, and now we miss him too. :(

I know the two are frolicking, off leash, enjoying each others company. ;)

Back to reading!

Hi, how nice to hear from you. I am proud to say I know all about Hawk. He was born in 1992 and passed away in 2004. I also have a picture of him through his puppyhood and, even one of him 3 days before he passed. What a beautiful boy.

Your DH is a musician and he would tell the most amazing stories of how Hawk would go to the record store with him and go right to the shelves to pick-out the music that "L" liked.

I love reading your DH's writings about you, your family and your experiences with Hawk. We CCI folks are very engrained into each other's lives.

I hope all is going well for all of you. Now, go tell "L" to get another dog. You guys are so full of love and life you should be sharing it with as many fur-bearing and human friends that you can.

[wizard-of-roz]

Questions regarding upcoming Panama Canal cruise:

Can anyone tell me about these ports: Cartagena, Puntarenas, Acapulco, and Cabo San Lucas

1) Are service dogs accepted in the culture, and in the shops?
2) Did you have a problem with aggressive stray dogs? or any constantly wanting to follow?

Aside from Mexico, did anyone have any problems entering Colombia or Costa Rica with the required, legal documents for their SD? Does Immigration meet you at the pier?

Sorry if they've already been answered in the 242 previous pages (though I've read a bunch of them.)

Thanks for the help.

Linda

Linda, Brenda has been to Acapulco, Cabo but not the other ports you mentioned. She's been to Brazil [Rio] and, all the documention required for Mexico stood fast in South America as well. We were NOT met at the pier leaving the ship but had to go through Immigration [checking all our paperwork again] going back onto the ship, after going to Carnivale, in Rio.

Something that was very helpful and is not mentioned a lot is a picture of your dog with you amongst your paperwork. It really helped in South America and certainly could not hurt in Mexico, as well.

CCI used to have a picture on our training certs.

Take a picture of the two of you and make sure it is attached to your paperwork.

EVERY SINGLE GUARD/IMMIGRATION/PURSER/TSA AGENT AND REGISTRATION PERSON LOOKED AT THE PICTURE AND THAN LOOKED AT US.

It's not difficult to take such a picture and really proved to be very helpful.

You will need to get the Cert. of Intl. Travel from a USDA VET and make sure that all the dogs immunizations/dates/use of Heartguard and flea & tick abatement are on the form. And, make sure the Vet signs the form.

Some ships require a note from your physician or health care worker stipulating to your need for a Working/Service Dog. It NEVER hurts to have such a letter available when traveling into a foreign country.

And, I've said this before, I'll say it again. MAKE SURE THE POTTY BOX IS SET-UP THE SECOND YOU BOARD THE SHIP. YOU CAN USE YOUR BALCONY OR A CLOSE-BY CREW STORAGE CLOSET OR STAIRWELL. IF THE BOX IS NOT BIG ENOUGH, INSIST ON A BIGGER ONE.

As far as stray dogs.......You will encounter a few dogs in South America [Mexico] who are curious about your dog. Protect your dog! South American dogs don't have to be on any kind of meds. We had a monkey in Brazil that would jump around Brenda but never touched her [I've never seen Brenda give an animal a dirty look, this time she did!!!] If you stay with a group of people, you're fellow passengers will help in chasing away strays of any kind. If you're venturing out on your own......PLEASE BE CAREFUL!!!!!!!

You will love cruising with your Service Dog. Allow for the myriad of questions you'll be getting from other passengers and do allow for some "patting" time. Other folks are missing their fur-babies and the touch of yours will be so satisfying for them. Our dogs love the extra attention. You don't have to overdo this. It's up to you! :)

[Island Explorer]

Thanks Roz for the info.

I travel a fair amount, fly a fair amount, and have cruised before with my service dog on the only other cruise I was on. I have all my paperwork in order. I've done my homework, and am aware of the legal requirements for each country, as well as the policies of the ship. I have experienced the great numbers of folks missing their dogs, and at least a dozen times on my cruise listened to crying passengers tell how they had recently lost their dogs.

My questions are pretty country-specific, or even port-specific cultural issues.

1) Are service dogs accepted in the culture, and in the shops? Roz, were you allowed in the shops in Acapulco? Were you run out of touristy areas if the culture doesn't accept SD's. Did you have problems using local tours with your SD?
2) Did you have a problem with aggressive stray dogs? or any constantly wanting to follow?
3) Do Immigration officials in Columbia and Costa Rica expect a pay-off to allow you entrance to their country? (I'll sort of expect it in Mexico.)

Can anyone tell me about these ports: Cartagena, Puntarenas, Acapulco, and Cabo San Lucas

Thanks again,

Linda

[tea4ular]

Hi, how nice to hear from you. I am proud to say I know all about Hawk. He was born in 1992 and passed away in 2004. I also have a picture of him through his puppyhood and, even one of him 3 days before he passed. What a beautiful boy.

Your DH is a musician and he would tell the most amazing stories of how Hawk would go to the record store with him and go right to the shelves to pick-out the music that "L" liked.

I love reading your DH's writings about you, your family and your experiences with Hawk. We CCI folks are very engrained into each other's lives.

I hope all is going well for all of you. Now, go tell "L" to get another dog. You guys are so full of love and life you should be sharing it with as many fur-bearing and human friends that you can.


What a small world! "L" just read me a couple of e-mails from you from several years back. ;)

Give Brenda a scritch for us both!!

Now back to reading!

[wizard-of-roz]

Thanks Roz for the info.

I travel a fair amount, fly a fair amount, and have cruised before with my service dog on the only other cruise I was on. I have all my paperwork in order. I've done my homework, and am aware of the legal requirements for each country, as well as the policies of the ship. I have experienced the great numbers of folks missing their dogs, and at least a dozen times on my cruise listened to crying passengers tell how they had recently lost their dogs.

My questions are pretty country-specific, or even port-specific cultural issues.

1) Are service dogs accepted in the culture, and in the shops? Roz, were you allowed in the shops in Acapulco? Were you run out of touristy areas if the culture doesn't accept SD's. Did you have problems using local tours with your SD? In Mexico and South America [Brazil] it can be iffy!!! More specifically, some shop owners are very, very leary of our dogs. Some of the shops are so small that there isn't good access for more than one person to walk down their aisleways, let alone with a dog. And, some shops have such a "high" step-up to enter that if you're in a wheelchair or have mobility issues it can be tough.

2) Did you have a problem with aggressive stray dogs? or any constantly wanting to follow? I witnessed strays but NEVER had one be aggressive towards Brenda.....only curious enough to come very close and then I was able to "shew" it away. And, there was a dog in Brazil who followed us from store to store but never approached us. But, then again, we had some children who did the same thing.

3) Do Immigration officials in Columbia and Costa Rica expect a pay-off to allow you entrance to their country? (I'll sort of expect it in Mexico.) I was NEVER asked to pay-off anyone in Mexico or South America, ever. And, we've cruised Mexico, with Brenda, 14 times.

Can anyone tell me about these ports: Cartagena, Puntarenas [have not been to these two] - Acapulco and Cabo are very friendly to dogs [except that the only way to get to Cabo from the ship is by tender boat] and, if you're a bit unsteady or if your dog doesn't do well on small/rocky boats this can be a challenge.

In Acapulco we stayed with our group and found the shop owners to be very friendly as well as the restaurants. The shopping was wonderful.

In Cabo we had some difficulty with a restaurant [in the shopping area], they were reluctant to allow Brenda in but were encouraged by other patrons and we were fine. The shops are very crowded and maneuvering around was difficult at times.

We were NEVER approached by Immigration or any other official in Mexico to "pay-off" to leave or re-enter the ship. Getting back on, in Acapulco, I was pulled aside and asked to show Brenda's paperwork, again. It was quick and easy.

Thanks again,

Linda

Linda I hope this helps. As far as the two ports I have not been to maybe someone else has information on them.

Once you've cruised with your Service Dog to these ports please come back and tell us all about it.

[cjborne2]

I wouldn't consider our recent experience an "official pay off" but it sure seemed like it was!

Good idea to bring a photo of you and the dog. My husband has an ID card with both of their pictures from The Seeing Eye. He keeps it in the pouch on the harness at all times.

[wizard-of-roz]

I wouldn't consider our recent experience an "official pay off" but it sure seemed like it was!

Good idea to bring a photo of you and the dog. My husband has an ID card with both of their pictures from The Seeing Eye. He keeps it in the pouch on the harness at all times.

Darn, that makes me so angry. I have yet to be asked for such money on any of my travels with my Working Dog. I'm sure the feeling of "fear" is instilled until you have no choice.......but, it's so wrong on so many levels. I know I don't need to tell you that.....Geezzzz!

Your husband is so smart and having that photo I.D. of both the dog and him can answer so many of the questions that some of our friends, who have a Service/Working Dog, and can not answer for themselves.

[DisneyKidsDad]

I wouldn't consider our recent experience an "official pay off" but it sure seemed like it was!

Good idea to bring a photo of you and the dog. My husband has an ID card with both of their pictures from The Seeing Eye. He keeps it in the pouch on the harness at all times.

We have CCI ID cards with a picture of myself, my wife, my daughter & Orson on them. We are all on it because we are a skilled companion team.

[wizard-of-roz]

We have CCI ID cards with a picture of myself, my wife, my daughter & Orson on them. We are all on it because we are a skilled companion team.

You know me.....I'm ALWAYS touting how wonderful CCI is with the I.D. Cards and, then I get in trouble for it.

I love having my CCI I.D. with mine and Brenda's picture on it. It just makes my life, while traveling with her, so much easier.

And, I know that not all Orgs. supply them to their people. Too bad!

If you have your dog privately trained or you do the training yourself have someone take your picture place it on a card with all yours and your dogs information on it. It's so easy to do and makes it much easier for all concerned when out and about in the general public.

[wizard-of-roz]

As we head off for our Holiday Road Trip with Children and Grandchildren in the mix, I want to wish EVERYONE who ever wrote on this thread and added to our knowledge and expertise of Travel With a Service Dog, a Warm, Wonderful,
Family & Food Filled Easter and Passover Holiday.

Your thoughtful and genuine concern and interest in all that we do as dog handlers, trainers, puppyraisers and owners is so, so welcomed!

To all our Amazingly, Wonderful and Hardworking Dogs....Our lives would be so empty and incomplete without YOU!

May all your cruises be the very best one, until the next one!

Love & Licks,
Roz, Morey & Brenda

[S.S. Cruisers]

Afternoon all:

Roz: I know I have missed you, but you are so sweet. You have safe and wonderful travels with the family. At the end of the day that's what it is all about. I wish everyone would heed that motto.

Everyone have a wonderful weekend.

[sd1]

You ought to work for the Government [or, do you?] Nicely done. It's what a Certified USDA Vet will have on the Intl. Cert. that he/she will give after the exam. and prior to cruising or travel overseas. There is NOTHING more that Immigration could ask for.

This MUST be signed and dated by a licensed Vet with a contact number on it. You never know if or when an overzealous Immigration Officer will call the Vet to verify everything.

Thanks for passing along all the great information.


Thanks for the complement! No, I don't work for the government but I do travel all over the world with my service dog. I feel like I work for the "International Bureau of Service Dog Importation." :)

Your are absolutely right, it MUST be signed and dated by a licensed vet with contact and license number.

[sd1]

You know me.....I'm ALWAYS touting how wonderful CCI is with the I.D. Cards and, then I get in trouble for it.

I love having my CCI I.D. with mine and Brenda's picture on it. It just makes my life, while traveling with her, so much easier.

And, I know that not all Orgs. supply them to their people. Too bad!

If you have your dog privately trained or you do the training yourself have someone take your picture place it on a card with all yours and your dogs information on it. It's so easy to do and makes it much easier for all concerned when out and about in the general public.


I agree! Having an ID card makes life so much easier. There are multiple online companies who issue them (for a fee). Of course, they are criticized for making it possible to "fake" a SD. Still, they are nice. Some companies offer cards for the SD and a card the handler that are cross referenced. Personally, I like the one with the photos of both of us so that if the worst in the world happened and we got separated it would show that we belong together.

On a recent cruise with Holland America, I asked, and they were happy to, take my boarding photo with both my SD and I in id. People smiled all over the ship and then I realized they had seen the photo in their system :). It also made reboarding a whole lot simpler.

[sd1]

You know me.....I'm ALWAYS touting how wonderful CCI is with the I.D. Cards and, then I get in trouble for it.

I love having my CCI I.D. with mine and Brenda's picture on it. It just makes my life, while traveling with her, so much easier.

And, I know that not all Orgs. supply them to their people. Too bad!

If you have your dog privately trained or you do the training yourself have someone take your picture place it on a card with all yours and your dogs information on it. It's so easy to do and makes it much easier for all concerned when out and about in the general public.


I agree. There are multiple companies (reputable and, well....) that will produce an official looking card. Some states issue a non-disability working dog (e.g. search and rescue, etc) and SD card that is identical to your divers license. Check with your state.

On our last cruise, I had Holland America take my boarding photo including my SD. They were great about it. It was a cinch to re-board after a day on shore. It was also a relief to me that they had an official record should someone get difficult. That did not happen but it did make me feel better.

[Quampapetet]

We made it back from Mexico. What a pain. Maybe it's different while going into the country on a cruise ship but once we got to the airport, they brought us to the area to look at the papers. I had the international certificate, rabies and distemper certification, but because the paper did not have the date that he last had his frontline and heartworm treatment (which was about 2 weeks ago), there were problems. They called a vet and for $50 cash, US dollars, they gave the dog some pill (sealed in a package) to treat intestinal parasites. (I should say my husband gave the dog the pill. The vet didn't even look at the dog, pet him, etc.) The agricultural official was filling out the paperwork to clear him through customs before the vet even got there. This must be somewhat common because there was a business card stapled into the phone book of the doctor they called. "Hola, Pedro! Que pasa?" which meant to me that he's there frequently. I said to my husband that I bet the vet and the official split the money.

Some countries do require a dog to be treated with a broad-spectrum anthelmintic within 24-48 hours before landing, so perhaps Mexico has that requirement. I had to do that for St. Lucia and St. Kitts (thankfully, they were consecutive days so I just had to do the worm treatment once) and got the meds from my vet for that (they were bone-shaped - pretty cute! ;)). I originally had planned on going to the purser to give her the pills in front of them so they could verify it, but I was too tired to do it when I did it, so I just showed the St. Lucia vets (they came onboard to check the dog; St. Kitts didn't) the empty prescription bottle (even though they didn't ask for it) which, of course, had the label on it. I think I left the empty med wrappers in it, too. I believe I carried the bottle with me when getting off the ship in St. Kitts, too, just in case.

Requirements could also vary depending on the part of a country you go to and on what problems, if any, they are currently having with animals there. I haven't needed an anthelmintic wormer for any other cruise (including the one with a Mexican port - that was in '08) or for the Bahamas. My dog is on year-round heartworm/worm prevention (Interceptor), though I don't think the vet writes this on the health certificate (I don't recall ever seeing it).

When we got back to the US, the US customs official that reviewed our paperwork said it's a 50/50 on what the Mexicans want.

The money is likely what they wanted. :p Although, those worming meds aren't cheap, so a good portion of the money likely went to pay for those. Oh, and don't worry, it is safe for the dog to have had that worm med that once even though he is on heartworm meds. (I wouldn't have given it to my dog if it hadn't been safe!)

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Sure is quiet in here. Hope everyone has a wonderful Easter week.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

We just got home from our road trip to Oregon and San Francisco [to be with our children.] The drive up had absolutely gorgeous weather as well as the weather in Oregon and the ride back had snow and winds. The change was so different. It was fun to experience all kinds of weather; makes for a more interesting road trip.

For the first time I listened to books on tape all the way from Eugene, Oregon to Los Angeles [the drive up was for sharing family stories and sight seeing.] If you have a chance to take a long road trip do get "The Help", I loved every moment of it and, still haven't finished it.....I can't wait to get back in the car to finish it.

My "personal" interview for a Successor Dog is still set for June 24th, I'll keep you guys in the loop, as it goes along. It's a slow process but it does give Brenda and me more time to share "our" time together.

Have a wonderful Easter everyone.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Roz: Welcome back! I am glad you had a good trip and am glad you are back. After having our road trip vacation, last year, I hope to do it again. The only difference is Jezzy Lou and Leann Emily not getting to go. :mad:

I hope everyone has an enjoyable day.

[rangeley]

Hi Everyone, I hope everyone had a great holiday. We went to CT to have dinner with my mom and son, it was very nice.

The weekend before we had Wexys recertification. He passed with flying colors!! WOOOOOHOOOOOO He did break when a woman with a high squeaky voice said hi to him as part of the test, but John was in control and that was ok. He was raised and trained by women so when he hears that voice he can't help himself. It was a long ride for a few minutes of testing but now we are all set for 3 years.

The next day we had a wedding and that was a long ride too! It was very nice, food was good, but by Sunday we were pooped!

John has been having a problem with his neck, and since his neck is already messed up, it's been scary. He has tingling in his hands and his arms have been weak. I'm not sure if it's part of his orginal injury or some kind of pinched nerve. But he is having trouble getting in and out of the shower, and his daily activities. Yesterday he fell and had to yell for help,( I had stayed in CT to help mom and was coming back the next day) so I am here everyday now. They are going to put in a roll-in shower but who knows how long that will take. He has and MRI and doctors appt scheduled but not til the beginning of May.

In a few weeks the CCI puppy raisers are having a fund raiser and Sarah Wilson (some well known dog trainer) will be doing 2 classes. John and I and Wex of course will be manning the info table. I have never heard of this woman but everyone of our puppy raisers is bragging about her. Does anyone know who she is?? I guess she has written a few books.

Roz, Sounds like you had an awesome trip. It must be so beautiful out there. Glad you are home safe and sound!

Cindy

[DisneyKidsDad]

Hi Everyone, I hope everyone had a great holiday. We went to CT to have dinner with my mom and son, it was very nice.

The weekend before we had Wexys recertification. He passed with flying colors!! WOOOOOHOOOOOO He did break when a woman with a high squeaky voice said hi to him as part of the test, but John was in control and that was ok. He was raised and trained by women so when he hears that voice he can't help himself. It was a long ride for a few minutes of testing but now we are all set for 3 years.

The next day we had a wedding and that was a long ride too! It was very nice, food was good, but by Sunday we were pooped!

John has been having a problem with his neck, and since his neck is already messed up, it's been scary. He has tingling in his hands and his arms have been weak. I'm not sure if it's part of his orginal injury or some kind of pinched nerve. But he is having trouble getting in and out of the shower, and his daily activities. Yesterday he fell and had to yell for help,( I had stayed in CT to help mom and was coming back the next day) so I am here everyday now. They are going to put in a roll-in shower but who knows how long that will take. He has and MRI and doctors appt scheduled but not til the beginning of May.

In a few weeks the CCI puppy raisers are having a fund raiser and Sarah Wilson (some well known dog trainer) will be doing 2 classes. John and I and Wex of course will be manning the info table. I have never heard of this woman but everyone of our puppy raisers is bragging about her. Does anyone know who she is?? I guess she has written a few books.

Roz, Sounds like you had an awesome trip. It must be so beautiful out there. Glad you are home safe and sound!

Cindy

See...I told ya there was nothing to worry about. Tell John great job!! Now the 3 year re-cert may be a different story. That's a long time to go. I hope everything is OK with John's neck. We had a wheelchair shower put in a few years back. It only took 2 days. We are doing a info/fundraiser next month with our puppy raiser friends (you know who I mean Cindy). :D Then we are going back to Disney World with them in July. ºoº Then a service dog demo when we get back and a big street fair fundraiser in Sept.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hi Everyone, I hope everyone had a great holiday. We went to CT to have dinner with my mom and son, it was very nice.

The weekend before we had Wexys recertification. He passed with flying colors!! WOOOOOHOOOOOO He did break when a woman with a high squeaky voice said hi to him as part of the test, but John was in control and that was ok. He was raised and trained by women so when he hears that voice he can't help himself. It was a long ride for a few minutes of testing but now we are all set for 3 years.

The next day we had a wedding and that was a long ride too! It was very nice, food was good, but by Sunday we were pooped!

John has been having a problem with his neck, and since his neck is already messed up, it's been scary. He has tingling in his hands and his arms have been weak. I'm not sure if it's part of his orginal injury or some kind of pinched nerve. But he is having trouble getting in and out of the shower, and his daily activities. Yesterday he fell and had to yell for help,( I had stayed in CT to help mom and was coming back the next day) so I am here everyday now. They are going to put in a roll-in shower but who knows how long that will take. He has and MRI and doctors appt scheduled but not til the beginning of May.

In a few weeks the CCI puppy raisers are having a fund raiser and Sarah Wilson (some well known dog trainer) will be doing 2 classes. John and I and Wex of course will be manning the info table. I have never heard of this woman but everyone of our puppy raisers is bragging about her. Does anyone know who she is?? I guess she has written a few books.

Roz, Sounds like you had an awesome trip. It must be so beautiful out there. Glad you are home safe and sound!

Cindy

Cindy, big congratulations to John and Wexy on their 3 year Cert. It's such a relief when you get these. They're a brilliant team. Brenda's Cert. is good until Dec. 2012. [We'll see if her Cert. lasts longer than the wait for "Successor!"]

I'm so sorry about John's neck issue's. I hope they get resolved for him and don't cause him any long-term issues.

I've been in contact with the Graduate Dept. at CCI and was told that the next Team Training was filled with folks acquiring a Successor Dog and there is not a dog for me then. It looks like I will have to wait until January [since the September class is during our next scheduled cruise, believe me, if family were not involved with this cruise I would cancel it in a second!]

I loved my road trip to my children. Oregon is a tempting place to live in. Of course, the weather was gorgeous when were there - I'm not so sure that DH could stand the cold climate on a long-term basis.

I had two grandchildren and my daughter-in-law in the car on the way up [they flew home, afterwards.] That was so much fun. I listened to books-on-tape on the way home and stopped in San Francisco to visit more family. I absolutely loved the road trip [I was probably a truck driver in my past life.] I love driving and could have kept going if I didn't have to be home for other commitments.

Cindy, please give John a big hug from Brenda and me.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

See...I told ya there was nothing to worry about. Tell John great job!! Now the 3 year re-cert may be a different story. That's a long time to go. I hope everything is OK with John's neck. We had a wheelchair shower put in a few years back. It only took 2 days. We are doing a info/fundraiser next month with our puppy raiser friends (you know who I mean Cindy). :D Then we are going back to Disney World with them in July. ºoº Then a service dog demo when we get back and a big street fair fundraiser in Sept.

Wow! You're schedule is full! Have fun and good luck with the fundraiser's.

[Latitude 20]

Thought all you dog lovers would like to know that the world-famous Shiba Inu "Puppy Cam" is back! They were on NBC Nightly News last night. Six little cuties we can watch grow up over the next few months.

http://www.ustream.tv/sfshiba

Warning--this website is totally addictive!

[rangeley]

Check this out it's a riot!!! http://www.wimp.com/guiltiestdog/

[S.S. Cruisers]

Evenin' all:

Cindy: Big woohoo for Wexy, oh and John! :D I sure hope John gets some relief for his neck. That has to be frustrating along with painful. Not to mention scary.

DKD: Boy you will be running for a few months! Good for you guys.

Roz: Things happen for a reason! That is why there is no spot available for you and Ms. LoveBug can be with Mama that much longer.:)

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Thought all you dog lovers would like to know that the world-famous Shiba Inu "Puppy Cam" is back! They were on NBC Nightly News last night. Six little cuties we can watch grow up over the next few months.

http://www.ustream.tv/sfshiba

Warning--this website is totally addictive!

I just looked at this. How absolutely adorable are those pups! :p

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Check this out it's a riot!!! http://www.wimp.com/guiltiestdog/

Awwww! Such a guilty girl! I love it!!!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Evenin' all:

Cindy: Big woohoo for Wexy, oh and John! :D I sure hope John gets some relief for his neck. That has to be frustrating along with painful. Not to mention scary.

DKD: Boy you will be running for a few months! Good for you guys.

Roz: Things happen for a reason! That is why there is no spot available for you and Ms. LoveBug can be with Mama that much longer.:)




Nancy, the more time with Brenda the better, is right. I'm getting more used to her new routine: She has to go to the potty more; she naps longer; she refuses to jump into my SUV [I have a ramp]; she really hates the shiney floors in the stores and, sometimes she'll do her "alerts" and sometimes she won't.

I want her to be comfortable and having her lay by my side is pure joy [even if she's sleeping in her crate.]

When the time is right for "Successor" we'll all be ready.

[Valentine's Mom]

Nancy, the more time with Brenda the better, is right. I'm getting more used to her new routine: She has to go to the potty more; she naps longer; she refuses to jump into my SUV [I have a ramp]; she really hates the shiney floors in the stores and, sometimes she'll do her "alerts" and sometimes she won't.

I want her to be comfortable and having her lay by my side is pure joy [even if she's sleeping in her crate.]

When the time is right for "Successor" we'll all be ready.

Hi Roz. I haven't been on in a long time. Hope all is well. I was wondering what is going to happen to Brenda when the new dog arrives? You have probably said so before but since I am facing the same situation I just want ideas. I will hate living her home the first time. Those eyes and that cute face. She is 11 years old and still willing and able to do her job but we have decided that this October will be her last long cruise. It is a 16 day T/A. Then she will retire and become the most loved PET in the world. If anyone has any clues for me I'd appreciate it. She will be fine. I'll be the one in the basket. LOL

[Latitude 20]

I just looked at this. How absolutely adorable are those pups! :p

I just leave the webcam open on my desktop all day and whenever I need a little stress relief--Puppy Cam!

They're cute but not all that interesting right now (they mostly sleep) but give them a few weeks--if they're anything like the last two litters, they'll be so hilarious people will be wondering why you're bursting out laughing at your desk!

Kathi

[rangeley]

See...I told ya there was nothing to worry about. Tell John great job!! Now the 3 year re-cert may be a different story. That's a long time to go. I hope everything is OK with John's neck. We had a wheelchair shower put in a few years back. It only took 2 days. We are doing a info/fundraiser next month with our puppy raiser friends (you know who I mean Cindy). :D Then we are going back to Disney World with them in July. ºoº Then a service dog demo when we get back and a big street fair fundraiser in Sept.

DKD, I bet after 3 years the dog has really gone to pot! We had one dog at our recert that must have been upwards of 10yrs. Hard to believe at that age they will do anything! Our Rangeley would look at us like we were crazy asking him to do something.
I hope our shower will only take a day or two cuz we will have to stay somewhere else while its being done.
You seem to have a busy schedule!! Our our friends going to Disney with you this time??

[rangeley]

Thought all you dog lovers would like to know that the world-famous Shiba Inu "Puppy Cam" is back! They were on NBC Nightly News last night. Six little cuties we can watch grow up over the next few months.

http://www.ustream.tv/sfshiba

Warning--this website is totally addictive!

OMG those puppies are beautiful!!

[DisneyKidsDad]

DKD, I bet after 3 years the dog has really gone to pot! We had one dog at our recert that must have been upwards of 10yrs. Hard to believe at that age they will do anything! Our Rangeley would look at us like we were crazy asking him to do something.
I hope our shower will only take a day or two cuz we will have to stay somewhere else while its being done.
You seem to have a busy schedule!! Our our friends going to Disney with you this time??

I think about 3 months before Orson's 3 year re-cert, we are going to go into training mode. Just to make sure he is as sharp as he can be. Never as sharp as the trainers want them to be.
Yes we are going back to Disney World with "our friends". They are hopefully going to be able to bring the new puppy they are now raising. Bright is being matriculated next month.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Afternoon all:
Roz: I can just see Papa wringing his hands, waiting to get all the Ms. Brenny time to himself! And, I can see Ms. Brenny with her paw on her hip, saying, in that little girl whinny voice, like I did when I was a kid, "I don't have to do that if I don't want to!" :D I would be content to just have her close to me, also. I bet you sit and listen to her snore and watch her tummy go up and down? Give her huggles and scratchies from me. Cari has a picture on Face Book of her babysitting some other dogs. OMG, there are 5 of them, all Labs and Goldens. Well one is Denver and one is Greg and then 3 others! Bless her heart, 5 big ole furbabies! All looking up at her over the BIG BABY GATE, with those infamous smiles on their faces.

[rangeley]

Den, did you see this video I posted??? Does it remind you of someone???

http://www.wimp.com/guiltiestdog/

[DisneyKidsDad]

Den, did you see this video I posted??? Does it remind you of someone???

http://www.wimp.com/guiltiestdog/

Cindy,
That's too much!! That's the only dog besides Orson that I've ever seen smile. How many people do you think I'm about to send that link to?

[rangeley]

Cindy,
That's too much!! That's the only dog besides Orson that I've ever seen smile. How many people do you think I'm about to send that link to?

When I didn't see a comment from you, I figured you missed it. I thought of Orson right away.

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi Roz. I haven't been on in a long time. Hope all is well. I was wondering what is going to happen to Brenda when the new dog arrives? You have probably said so before but since I am facing the same situation I just want ideas. I will hate living her home the first time. Those eyes and that cute face. She is 11 years old and still willing and able to do her job but we have decided that this October will be her last long cruise. It is a 16 day T/A. Then she will retire and become the most loved PET in the world. If anyone has any clues for me I'd appreciate it. She will be fine. I'll be the one in the basket. LOL


Barbara, we're in this "retire" dog boat together.

I'm very lucky in that my DH is retired and can't wait for Brenda to stay home with him, alone!

If he weren't home with her; I'd bring her "sleeping crate" home for comfort; I'd make sure she had easy access to go potty and I'd make sure not to make too big of a "fuss" when I left in the morning.

I know how difficult this must be for folks who have to leave their hardworking retiree home alone or even worse to have to give them up to a "retire foster home!"

The fact that I MUST wait for my new dog is probably the best thing for both Brenda and me.

I must have faith in CCI and in the entire process. It's not always easy to "believe" but I love Brenda so much I'll do anything to make her life a good one.

Good luck with Valentine, enjoy her!

[wizard-of-roz]

I just leave the webcam open on my desktop all day and whenever I need a little stress relief--Puppy Cam!

They're cute but not all that interesting right now (they mostly sleep) but give them a few weeks--if they're anything like the last two litters, they'll be so hilarious people will be wondering why you're bursting out laughing at your desk!

Kathi

Kathi, aren't puppies the best!!!!

[Valentine's Mom]

Barbara, we're in this "retire" dog boat together.

I'm very lucky in that my DH is retired and can't wait for Brenda to stay home with him, alone!

If he weren't home with her; I'd bring her "sleeping crate" home for comfort; I'd make sure she had easy access to go potty and I'd make sure not to make too big of a "fuss" when I left in the morning.

I know how difficult this must be for folks who have to leave their hardworking retiree home alone or even worse to have to give them up to a "retire foster home!"

The fact that I MUST wait for my new dog is probably the best thing for both Brenda and me.

I must have faith in CCI and in the entire process. It's not always easy to "believe" but I love Brenda so much I'll do anything to make her life a good one.

Good luck with Valentine, enjoy her!

I guess I'm really making too much of it. I retired years ago from nursing and now stay at home. Valentine loves to shop and go out among people. She is acutally better at that than I am. I will have and love her till that final day. I just hate to see her little face when she has to stay home for some reason. I guess I'll take her with me until she no longer is able or shows no interest. We do have a little differance since she is a tiny alert dog and often rides in her travel bag or in a basket on my scooter. I do think this will be her last trip to Europe though. The plane ride can be a little difficult for her. Sher refuses to potty till we get to the hotel. I don't know how she does it! I think she has the bladder of a Great Dane. LOL Right now she is healthy and eager to work so for now we are good. I just get a little emotional late at night. LOL Good to know you guys are always there,:)

[wizard-of-roz]

I guess I'm really making too much of it. I retired years ago from nursing and now stay at home. Valentine loves to shop and go out among people. She is acutally better at that than I am. I will have and love her till that final day. I just hate to see her little face when she has to stay home for some reason. I guess I'll take her with me until she no longer is able or shows no interest. We do have a little differance since she is a tiny alert dog and often rides in her travel bag or in a basket on my scooter. I do think this will be her last trip to Europe though. The plane ride can be a little difficult for her. Sher refuses to potty till we get to the hotel. I don't know how she does it! I think she has the bladder of a Great Dane. LOL Right now she is healthy and eager to work so for now we are good. I just get a little emotional late at night. LOL Good to know you guys are always there,:)

You're not alone in the "emotional" thing. I look at Brenda as she sleeps and I start to cry.......with the realization that she will not ALWAYS be in my life and I won't ALWAYS be able to watch her sleep.......Geeezzzz! It doesn't just take the night to bring on emotion for Miss Brenda. She is so engrained into my heart, it's impossible for me to think of her without tearing-up!!!!

[JulieRose]

Thank you so much for posting this. One of the guests at my upcoming cruise wedding is traveling with a service dog and there's a lot of great information here but with 244 pages... wow. It will take a long time to go through.

[JulieRose]

sorry, double post.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Thank you so much for posting this. One of the guests at my upcoming cruise wedding is traveling with a service dog and there's a lot of great information here but with 244 pages... wow. It will take a long time to go through.

JulieRose: First, congratulations on your upcoming wedding. I can't think of a more wonderful place to celebrate such a wonderful occasion than onboard a beautiful cruise ship.

What "specific" information would help your guest the most or what questions do you have that we, who have cruised with our Service Dogs, can help you with?

[JulieRose]

Thanks!

Well, she has the service dog because she's visually impaired. So any information about any special services they offer for her would be welcome. We're traveling with Princess so it's their policies we're concerned with. I don't think that she plans on bringing the dog off of the ship in most ports because then, how could she do things like the Zipline tour? (That's kinda rhetorical but if you actually do have an answer other than "she couldn't" we'd love to know.) The big concern right now, I think, is being able to get back on and off the ship to water him and take him to the potty while the ship is in port. Will that be possible/practical?

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

Hi Julie Rose: I don't have a SD, but I love these people and they let me hang out with them! Roz is one of our Princess and SD experts. I just wanted to say "Denver Sees For Me" Cari, is visually impaired and I know she did the "Zipline" so yes your friend can. I can't remember if she left Denver on board that day or if friends just held him for her. She doesn't visit the board as often, she is really busy. I will she if she can pop in and give you any other tips, for you friend. Stick around, these folks are fabulous! :D Be patient the weekends are kinda slow.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. The wind is blowing like all get out here.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:

Hi Julie Rose: I don't have a SD, but I love these people and they let me hang out with them! Roz is one of our Princess and SD experts. I just wanted to say "Denver Sees For Me" Cari, is visually impaired and I know she did the "Zipline" so yes your friend can. I can't remember if she left Denver on board that day or if friends just held him for her. She doesn't visit the board as often, she is really busy. I will she if she can pop in and give you any other tips, for you friend. Stick around, these folks are fabulous! :D Be patient the weekends are kinda slow.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. The wind is blowing like all get out here.


Nancy, the wind here in L.A. is unbelieveable. I swear this morning it felt like "Kansas!"

The "Gods" are really upset about something with all the "Mother Nature" happenstances that are going on all over the world.

Hang on everyone and take care of yourselves.

I'm going to see if I can help JulieRose.

Nancy, tell Cari to get onboard so she can give JulieRose "first hand" information. ;)

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Thanks!

Well, she has the service dog because she's visually impaired. So any information about any special services they offer for her would be welcome. We're traveling with Princess so it's their policies we're concerned with. I don't think that she plans on bringing the dog off of the ship in most ports because then, how could she do things like the Zipline tour? (That's kinda rhetorical but if you actually do have an answer other than "she couldn't" we'd love to know.) The big concern right now, I think, is being able to get back on and off the ship to water him and take him to the potty while the ship is in port. Will that be possible/practical?

JulieRose: Cruising with your Service Dog is a bit of a different "animal" than land-based vacations; in that you need to have a "potty box" set-up for the dog and the different ports that you may be visiting may require different certifications for the dog.

Check with the Access Department of Princess and they will be happy to inquire for you about what you will need. We always speak with Allison Muff.

The second you get onboard you will check-in with the Purser's Desk to find out where the Potty Box has been placed. I ALWAYS have it placed on our veranda or in a stairwell close to our cabin.

Ask the Purser to get the Cruise Director or an assistant to help you. They can "reserve" seats for your friend and her dog in the Princess Theatre [for the evening] shows. This will guarantee that your friend and dog will not have to go searching around in the dark for a seat. Make sure that either the Cruise Director or an assistant is available to escort your friend to her seat the first night so she's familiar to the area.

Your friend MUST have the Certification for Interstate Transport of Small Animals [she will ask her Vet about this]; she must have the dogs immunizations current [and, that means within 6 months [for some ports it may be even less] of travel. The dog MUST be on Heartguard and flea and tick abatement. The Vet must sign this Certificate and show the dates of last Vet Exam and Rabies Shot.

The dog will not be allowed to go into or onto some of the excursions [ziplining] is very doable [without the dog]. The dog can be watched by someone else while your friend ziplines or enjoys any other excursion. Remember, the dog MUST ALWAYS be on leash.

You need to be aware of other animals while in different ports and be prepared to "shew" curious, local dogs away.

Remember; the people onboard with you had to leave their "furbabies" in a kennel or with Grammy, in order to take this cruise. They're missing them and will want to "pat" the dog and will ask lots of questions. Be ready to be stopped and give yourselves lots of time to get from one place to another. Do allow a time when folks can "pat" the dog......it's really okay to share our "miracle workers" with others.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

JulieRose: Cari says just email her and she will answer any and all questions. Roz has met Cari and Denver in person. Cari is such a sweetheart and Denver, well just ask Ms. Brenda about her big yellow love! Anyway just put Cruise Critic in subject line and her email is countrygrl290@aol dot com.

Roz: You are right, someone p.o.'d the Gods. This weather is getting ridiculous. I just hate the wind. It just makes my disposition, shall we say unpleasant. :o

Hope everyone has a great Sunday. More basketball play-offs are on. Guess it will be a computer day. Laundry all done except Jezzy's toys in the dryer. They were pretty dirty!

[Alohatoo]

I just returned from a 7 night Caribbean cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse with my guide dog. She did great. They built a 4x4 potty box for her on a windy part of a crew deck area. I did not take her off in ports except for San Jaun -- it was too hot for her feet there though so mostly we walked to bars and stayed indoors. I left her in the cabin in the other ports -- St. Maarten and St. Kitts but only was gone for a couple hours. Shirley was fine with that -- although I brought a crate I just tied her leash to a chair and she was comfortable on her fleece mat. She amassed quite a fan club on the ship amoung crew and passengers. You might ask someone on the ship to walk the guide or check on her if the person will be gone for a long time -- or hire one of the crew members to do it. I also left Shirley in the cabin when I went up to the lawn club as she was not allowed to use that grass and I did not want her to know there was grass on board. Enjoy that wedding at sea. It sounds wonderful. Thanks!

Well, she has the service dog because she's visually impaired. So any information about any special services they offer for her would be welcome. We're traveling with Princess so it's their policies we're concerned with. I don't think that she plans on bringing the dog off of the ship in most ports because then, how could she do things like the Zipline tour? (That's kinda rhetorical but if you actually do have an answer other than "she couldn't" we'd love to know.) The big concern right now, I think, is being able to get back on and off the ship to water him and take him to the potty while the ship is in port. Will that be possible/practical?

[wizard-of-roz]

I just returned from a 7 night Caribbean cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse with my guide dog. She did great. They built a 4x4 potty box for her on a windy part of a crew deck area. I did not take her off in ports except for San Jaun -- it was too hot for her feet there though so mostly we walked to bars and stayed indoors. I left her in the cabin in the other ports -- St. Maarten and St. Kitts but only was gone for a couple hours. Shirley was fine with that -- although I brought a crate I just tied her leash to a chair and she was comfortable on her fleece mat. She amassed quite a fan club on the ship amoung crew and passengers. You might ask someone on the ship to walk the guide or check on her if the person will be gone for a long time -- or hire one of the crew members to do it. I also left Shirley in the cabin when I went up to the lawn club as she was not allowed to use that grass and I did not want her to know there was grass on board. Enjoy that wedding at sea. It sounds wonderful.


Aloha: It sounds like you had a wonderful time and planned the times you'd be away from your dog perfectly.

I found Celebrity to be very accommodating when it came to my dog and my needs.

Now, that I'm a bit smarter about where they can place the pottybox, I don't think I'd use a box that was exposed to any kind of weather and would insist that it be moved to a "crew closet" or a stairwell. If Princess can accommodate me in this manner so can other cruiselines. They just need to be given the idea and can plan accordingly.

Your ideas of leaving the dog with a crew member are very doable and is something that I've done. It's just like finding a babysitter for your children. You need to "interview" the prospective, interested person, give them all the do's and don'ts and, you're all set.

Thanks for sharing your cruise with us. :)

[wizard-of-roz]

Thanks!

Well, she has the service dog because she's visually impaired. So any information about any special services they offer for her would be welcome. We're traveling with Princess so it's their policies we're concerned with. I don't think that she plans on bringing the dog off of the ship in most ports because then, how could she do things like the Zipline tour? (That's kinda rhetorical but if you actually do have an answer other than "she couldn't" we'd love to know.) The big concern right now, I think, is being able to get back on and off the ship to water him and take him to the potty while the ship is in port. Will that be possible/practical?

JulieRose: Also, bring along a portable water container for the dog, if you're going on an excursion. Mine is collapsible and can be folded into my purse. I purchased it at the Canine Companions for Independence Website Giftshop. I've had it for years and I wouldn't take a walk without it.

[rangeley]

Hi Everyone, I don't know if anyone got an email for a free eye exam for service dogs, but we took Wex yesterday. The doctor was very nice and Wex did great. She did a thorough exam and his eyes are great. It was a great thing to take advantage of, especially since there was a ton of dogs there with eye problems. I didn't realize how many eye problems dogs have.

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi Everyone, I don't know if anyone got an email for a free eye exam for service dogs, but we took Wex yesterday. The doctor was very nice and Wex did great. She did a thorough exam and his eyes are great. It was a great thing to take advantage of, especially since there was a ton of dogs there with eye problems. I didn't realize how many eye problems dogs have.

Cindy

Such a good Mommy!!!!

[S.S. Cruisers]

Such a lucky Sexy Wexy!

[wizard-of-roz]

Well, I know our upcoming cruise is getting closer because I just paid for the rental of the electric scooter, to be delivered to the cabin.

I'm just so darn grateful that Princess has not tacked-on a gasoline surcharge.......Shhhhhhh! Let's not tempt fate! :( As if that would keep me from cruising.

My goal is to still take Brenda on this cruise [afterall, it will be her 15th] and, it just seems like a nice round number to retire on. ;)

I'm pretty sure that there won't be a chance for me to get into the June program for a Successor dog so, it looks like I'll be waiting until, at least January, 2012. It gives me more time with my Senior Princess!!!! :)

She's so funny to watch as her age is creeping-up on her. It's as if it's a complete surprise to her too!!!!! She'll give me a very long look, as if to say "what's happening to me?" She wants to play and romp but finds herself out of breath more quickly and, again, I get that long-faced stare!!! I just hold her head on my lap and rub her forehead while I tell her how sorry I am that it's all so fast and so sneaky; this age thing for dogs!!!!!

It's so unfair. :o

[JulieRose]

Mornin' all:

I just wanted to say "Denver Sees For Me" Cari, is visually impaired and I know she did the "Zipline" so yes your friend can. I can't remember if she left Denver on board that day or if friends just held him for her.


Hey! thanks for your response. I just want to be clear that I don't doubt that she can go on the excursion, just wondering what arrangements need to be made for her SD.

Mornin' all:

JulieRose: Cari says just email her and she will answer any and all questions. Roz has met Cari and Denver in person. Cari is such a sweetheart and Denver, well just ask Ms. Brenda about her big yellow love! Anyway just put Cruise Critic in subject line and her email is countrygrl290@aol dot com.


Thank you so much! I have much going on right now so I will forward this email address to her traveling companion!

You might ask someone on the ship to walk the guide or check on her if the person will be gone for a long time -- or hire one of the crew members to do it.

WOW! They really will do just about anything you ask them to, wont they? This is actually a really good idea because we will be traveling with a group and there are a few animal lovers among us. Good to know that you can actually hire the crew to help out too.

JulieRose: Also, bring along a portable water container for the dog, if you're going on an excursion. Mine is collapsible and can be folded into my purse. I purchased it at the Canine Companions for Independence Website Giftshop. I've had it for years and I wouldn't take a walk without it.


I'll be sure to pass on that information. Thanks!

[JulieRose]

JulieRose: Cruising with your Service Dog is a bit of a different "animal" than land-based vacations; in that you need to have a "potty box" set-up for the dog and the different ports that you may be visiting may require different certifications for the dog.

Check with the Access Department of Princess and they will be happy to inquire for you about what you will need. We always speak with Allison Muff.

The second you get onboard you will check-in with the Purser's Desk to find out where the Potty Box has been placed. I ALWAYS have it placed on our veranda or in a stairwell close to our cabin.

Ask the Purser to get the Cruise Director or an assistant to help you. They can "reserve" seats for your friend and her dog in the Princess Theatre [for the evening] shows. This will guarantee that your friend and dog will not have to go searching around in the dark for a seat. Make sure that either the Cruise Director or an assistant is available to escort your friend to her seat the first night so she's familiar to the area.

Your friend MUST have the Certification for Interstate Transport of Small Animals [she will ask her Vet about this]; she must have the dogs immunizations current [and, that means within 6 months [for some ports it may be even less] of travel. The dog MUST be on Heartguard and flea and tick abatement. The Vet must sign this Certificate and show the dates of last Vet Exam and Rabies Shot.

The dog will not be allowed to go into or onto some of the excursions [ziplining] is very doable [without the dog]. The dog can be watched by someone else while your friend ziplines or enjoys any other excursion. Remember, the dog MUST ALWAYS be on leash.

You need to be aware of other animals while in different ports and be prepared to "shew" curious, local dogs away.

Remember; the people onboard with you had to leave their "furbabies" in a kennel or with Grammy, in order to take this cruise. They're missing them and will want to "pat" the dog and will ask lots of questions. Be ready to be stopped and give yourselves lots of time to get from one place to another. Do allow a time when folks can "pat" the dog......it's really okay to share our "miracle workers" with others.

Wow. That was a lot of really valuable info in one post. Thanks so much. I'll be sure to pass it along.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Afternoon all:
Boy it has been like pulling teeth to get on CC. Fortunately today seems to be good!

Roz: I was so excited. Travis came home with a sticker and a bookmarker from Canine Companions for Independence! I get the bookmarker, he can have the sticker. I asked him if someone came to his school and talked about it, but he said no, it was in his cubby at school. So we went on line to their site and I showed him the different dogs helping different people. I want him to be aware that everyone can be different but that doesn't mean they can't do certain things, especially with the help of those fabulous furbabies..............

[wizard-of-roz]

Afternoon all:
Boy it has been like pulling teeth to get on CC. Fortunately today seems to be good!

Roz: I was so excited. Travis came home with a sticker and a bookmarker from Canine Companions for Independence! I get the bookmarker, he can have the sticker. I asked him if someone came to his school and talked about it, but he said no, it was in his cubby at school. So we went on line to their site and I showed him the different dogs helping different people. I want him to be aware that everyone can be different but that doesn't mean they can't do certain things, especially with the help of those fabulous furbabies..............


You are teaching Travis very well. It's very curious how the stuff got into his cubby. No matter.....I'm glad to see that the CCI Fairies are at work "everywhere!" It can't hurt to spread the word.

Have a wonderful weekend and a restful Mother's Day to everyone!

[rangeley]

Nancy, How strange CCI things got into Travis' cubby! Gives me a chill!! Like Roz said, it must be the CCI fairies.

[rangeley]

Well we went to the neurosurgeon today, and nothing sounds good. We think John might have to get surgery on his neck. Something is pinching off his cord above his injury and they might need to fix it. Of course any neck surgery is scary as heck! And the worst thing is, it might not fix it, or it could be worse. I think we are going to get a second opinion and see how that goes. I'll keep you updated.

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

Well we went to the neurosurgeon today, and nothing sounds good. We think John might have to get surgery on his neck. Something is pinching off his cord above his injury and they might need to fix it. Of course any neck surgery is scary as heck! And the worst thing is, it might not fix it, or it could be worse. I think we are going to get a second opinion and see how that goes. I'll keep you updated.

Cindy

Cindy, please give my regards and lots of hugs to John. I'm so sorry he's going through this. I hope it all turns out to be something that can be fixed and, I hope he's not having a lot of pain.

It's so difficult for me to share this because it's still not real for me or my family.......My brother Barry suddenly died and we're all in a horrible fog. We were very close. We are 6 siblings, he was the oldest. He was a puritan when it came to food/air/water. He only ate healthy and kept a very healthy weight. He rode his Harley, with his wife Jeanie and camped and hiked and just loved life. He had a 4 acre ranch in Acton CA. He was weeding in his garden and suddenly collapsed. He died instantly. So, so strange and so unreal. We spoke at least 3 times a week and the loss of him has left a HUGE hole in our lives. He would hug me so hard when we saw each other that I would squeal and beg him to stop!!!!!

Sorry for going on.......I just needed to share with you. Thanks for reading/listening.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Roz, I am so sorry for your loss. Life has been dealing some pretty crappy hands, lately. I would hug you hard, too, if I could.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Cindy, more hugs coming your's and John's way. You are right, any of that kind of surgery is very scary. That is why I haven't had my back operated on. The doctor told me I know what the pain level is right now and as long as medication is relieving some of it, he would not suggest surgery. Some days are better than others. I understand that John's is much more serious, as he is obviously in a lot more pain than I am. It does sound like something is pinching a nerve or something. I certainly hope it gets better for him. Dog gone it.

[rangeley]

Cindy, please give my regards and lots of hugs to John. I'm so sorry he's going through this. I hope it all turns out to be something that can be fixed and, I hope he's not having a lot of pain.

It's so difficult for me to share this because it's still not real for me or my family.......My brother Barry suddenly died and we're all in a horrible fog. We were very close. We are 6 siblings, he was the oldest. He was a puritan when it came to food/air/water. He only ate healthy and kept a very healthy weight. He rode his Harley, with his wife Jeanie and camped and hiked and just loved life. He had a 4 acre ranch in Acton CA. He was weeding in his garden and suddenly collapsed. He died instantly. So, so strange and so unreal. We spoke at least 3 times a week and the loss of him has left a HUGE hole in our lives. He would hug me so hard when we saw each other that I would squeal and beg him to stop!!!!!

Sorry for going on.......I just needed to share with you. Thanks for reading/listening.


OMG Roz, We are so so sorry to hear of your loss. How awful. It's hard to lose anyone, but so unexpected..I'm lost for words. Our condolences to you and all of your family.

Cindy

[rangeley]

Cindy, more hugs coming your's and John's way. You are right, any of that kind of surgery is very scary. That is why I haven't had my back operated on. The doctor told me I know what the pain level is right now and as long as medication is relieving some of it, he would not suggest surgery. Some days are better than others. I understand that John's is much more serious, as he is obviously in a lot more pain than I am. It does sound like something is pinching a nerve or something. I certainly hope it gets better for him. Dog gone it.


Nancy, Believe it or not, John actually has no pain! Just tingling,numbness and alot of weakness in his arms. It's really wierd, but I'm glad there is no pain. He has enough to deal with.

Cindy

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Thank you everyone for your kind and heartfelt condolences and good wishes.

Life changes on a dime. It doesn't matter how old we get and how much we think we know......life has a way of catching us by surprise, whipping us around and testing us every day.

Not much we can do but hold-on and hang-on to the one's who loves us and who we love-enjoying their company every chance we can.

And, boy, what an important role our dogs play into this.

[sunshine426]

Hey Everyone! I've been super busy, but have been checking in periodically. First of all Cindy and Roz, I am so sorry for all the things you have been experiencing lately. I know how hard it can be when family members are lost or face serious health complications. My prayers are with you all.

Rich's Mom health continues to occupy most of our time these days. Thankfully, she is no longer in the hospital and we have not had any night time phone calls for 3 weeks. She has not recovered completley and is now in a rehab facility. Our fingers are crossed that she will regain enough strength to return to independent living.

The silver lining in all of this is Cooler is getting lot's of experience in care of the elderly. She has been a rock star at the children's hospital for quite some time, but she is totally stealing the show when we go visit "Gram". She is gentle and kind with all the residents and smiles greet her everywhere.

She shows off all the time. Amazing how impressed people are with good manners and a dog that "sit's" on command. And then when she picks up my keys or opens a door with a tug command....amazing. And of course the more cheers she gets the more she wants to perform. No treats or kibble needed for this girl. Just give her some elderly people in wheelchairs!!

I'll keep y'all posted. She is 12 months old now. Somehow, I would not be surprized to see her graduate at 14 months in July.

[sunshine426]

Hey Everyone! I've been super busy, but have been checking in periodically. First of all Cindy and Roz, I am so sorry for all the things you have been experiencing lately. I know how hard it can be when family members are lost or face serious health complications. My prayers are with you all.

Rich's Mom health continues to occupy most of our time these days. Thankfully, she is no longer in the hospital and we have not had any night time phone calls for 3 weeks. She has not recovered completley and is now in a rehab facility. Our fingers are crossed that she will regain enough strength to return to independent living.

The silver lining in all of this is Cooler is getting lot's of experience in care of the elderly. She has been a rock star at the children's hospital for quite some time, but she is totally stealing the show when we go visit "Gram". She is gentle and kind with all the residents and smiles greet her everywhere.

She shows off all the time. Amazing how impressed people are with good manners and a dog that "sit's" on command. And then when she picks up my keys or opens a door with a tug command....amazing. And of course the more cheers she gets the more she wants to perform. No treats or kibble needed for this girl. Just give her some elderly people in wheelchairs!!

I'll keep y'all posted. She is 12 months old now. Somehow, I would not be surprized to see her graduate at 14 months in July.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Cindy: I am glad to hear that John is not in pain. It doesn't make it any better, but meaning pain on top of it all would just not do! I certainly hope they find what is wrong.

Sunshine: That is awesome about Cooler. What a good, smart girl she is. I was really surprised because Jezzy jumps and screams and claws and act like a fool when anyone comes over, but she never did that to mom. Thank goodness with mom's thin skin she would have been a mess. I really, really do think they know and are the best therapy for people.

Speaking of which, I haven't gone on there tonight but there was an ugly thread started about someone bringing their "cute pet dog" with them on a cruise and passing them off as a service dog. Sarcastic remark about how the dog couldn't even be a service to themselves much less anyone else and of course the rest of the ugly comments. I kept my fingers off the keyboard because I knew I couldn't be civil and I didn't want my hands slapped or worse, sent to Cabo! for being naughty. People can be so ignorant.

[Latitude 20]

It's so difficult for me to share this because it's still not real for me or my family.......My brother Barry suddenly died and we're all in a horrible fog. We were very close. We are 6 siblings, he was the oldest. He was a puritan when it came to food/air/water. He only ate healthy and kept a very healthy weight. He rode his Harley, with his wife Jeanie and camped and hiked and just loved life. He had a 4 acre ranch in Acton CA. He was weeding in his garden and suddenly collapsed. He died instantly. So, so strange and so unreal. We spoke at least 3 times a week and the loss of him has left a HUGE hole in our lives. He would hug me so hard when we saw each other that I would squeal and beg him to stop!!!!!

Sorry for going on.......I just needed to share with you. Thanks for reading/listening.


Roz, I am so sorry you have lost your big brother--I bet it is just as hard as losing a parent. And it goes to show, even if one is super healthy, you just never know so live life now and don't put off those cruises (or anything else) for "when I'm retired," or "when I have more time." We need to make that time now!

Leo and I will be holding you in our hearts as you go through this difficult time. It's OK to be sad but remember it's also OK to be happy at times--I'm guessing your brother wouldn't want it any other way.

Hugs to you and Mr. Wizard of Roz and the gorgeous Miss Brenny!
Kathi

[sunshine426]

Happy Mother's Day to all my cruising friends. Hope this day is special for all. Rich is off to have lunch with his mom, and my gift was a day of quiet at the house. Of course I am taking Cooler back to CA and will give some kisses to a few of the camp dogs. Training camp starts tomorow and some very special friends will probably graduate and go out into this big world. Maybe some will even be cruising dogs...

I'm attaching a link (I hope) that shows some of the pups in training. The golden retriever in the Christmas Tree picture is Cracker's sister and should graduate this camp. Also the big black lab with the balance harness also is slated for camp. If you look hard you can see Cooler: yellow lab at the aqhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7bCNGMae04uarium and one of her with "Gram". Enjoy.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Happy mother's day to all!

Sunshine: I played that video for Travis the other day. He loved it. He especially like the photos of the dogs in the pools. Him and Reno always shared the pool. He has been talking a lot about Reno lately.

I just love the Labradoodles! I just want to scratch my fingers in their hair. Roz knows I am secretly sending vibes for her to get one!

Everyone have a great day.

[Valentine's Mom]

Wow is ther ever a situation over on the Carnival Board. They are really talking down on service dogs! Poor Valentine has been targeted and has had her picture p.osted as a fake service dog. I could really use your help over there here is the link
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1410108

[S.S. Cruisers]

Sorry Valentine's mom, I have already been over there. I have to leave my keyboard alone or I will be banned! I know Zydecocruiser use to cause a lot of havoc on the boards. Don't know if he is still around or not. I would ask him who gave him permission to post Valentine's photo on the internet? What a bunch of hooey.

[S.S. Cruisers]

I went to the member list and I don't see his name on it. So he must be gone?

[SwissDave]

Hello all, I always read this thread but have not posted on here before. It makes me so sad and so happy at the same time, sad that people need service dogs, and happy that dogs can fullfill a role and purpose that many people need.

I daren't post on that carnival thread as I would surely be banned as well, but I simply want to say I cannot believe how many ignorant, rude and downright selfish people there are on there - if that is the type of person who freqeuents carnival then I want nothing to do with them, but I really hope they are a miniscule minority. thankfully there are one or two people on there trying to keep those ignorant ones in their places.

However,I also dont believe that every dog claimed to be a service dog is one (there are always people who want to buck the system) but some people just cant believe that just because it is not a seeing eye dog then it can't be a service dog.
My beloved, and very dearly departed, choc labrador was my life for 11 years. He passed away 5 years ago exactly and I think of him every single day. He was not a service dog but he certainly acted very strangely for 3 weeks prior to me having a heart attack. Always pushing his nose into my chest when I got up in the morning or if sitting together on the sofa and sighing or whimpering...he was right...there was something wrong. During my MI, my heart went into fibrilation and arrested, I fell backwards and crashed so hard against the wall it kicked my heart back into rhythm, and when I came round the dog had his face very close to mine and was whimpering, agitated and confused. The joy and happiness that was so obvious in his face when I came home from hospital a week later really is something to be remembered and cherished forever.

Roz, we have exchange a small number of messages on other threads and I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I'm sure Brenda is feeling and sharing your pain - they have their own way of helping us through these times, as I'm sure you know.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hello all, I always read this thread but have not posted on here before. It makes me so sad and so happy at the same time, sad that people need service dogs, and happy that dogs can fullfill a role and purpose that many people need.

I daren't post on that carnival thread as I would surely be banned as well, but I simply want to say I cannot believe how many ignorant, rude and downright selfish people there are on there - if that is the type of person who freqeuents carnival then I want nothing to do with them, but I really hope they are a miniscule minority. thankfully there are one or two people on there trying to keep those ignorant ones in their places.

However,I also dont believe that every dog claimed to be a service dog is one (there are always people who want to buck the system) but some people just cant believe that just because it is not a seeing eye dog then it can't be a service dog.
My beloved, and very dearly departed, choc labrador was my life for 11 years. He passed away 5 years ago exactly and I think of him every single day. He was not a service dog but he certainly acted very strangely for 3 weeks prior to me having a heart attack. Always pushing his nose into my chest when I got up in the morning or if sitting together on the sofa and sighing or whimpering...he was right...there was something wrong. During my MI, my heart went into fibrilation and arrested, I fell backwards and crashed so hard against the wall it kicked my heart back into rhythm, and when I came round the dog had his face very close to mine and was whimpering, agitated and confused. The joy and happiness that was so obvious in his face when I came home from hospital a week later really is something to be remembered and cherished forever.

Roz, we have exchange a small number of messages on other threads and I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I'm sure Brenda is feeling and sharing your pain - they have their own way of helping us through these times, as I'm sure you know.

Hi Dave, I'm writing on another computer hence the different avatar.

Thank you so much for your kind words and your "tearfilled" post. I don't think you mentioned your Lab's name but your love for him was very obvious and shined through every word you wrote. Your story of how he was right "there" for you when you had your heart attack is amazing. Your thinking of him everyday is testament to how much you valued him in your life.

You are so right about Brenda and the happiness she brings to my life, she makes me feel so good everytime she lays her head on my lap and just looks into my eyes!!!! My dear old girl is such a source of comfort for me.

I haven't looked at the Carnival thread that everyone is writing about. I will take a look.

It was good to hear from you....take good care of Switzerland, my dream is to go back one day!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Happy Mother's Day to all my cruising friends. Hope this day is special for all. Rich is off to have lunch with his mom, and my gift was a day of quiet at the house. Of course I am taking Cooler back to CA and will give some kisses to a few of the camp dogs. Training camp starts tomorow and some very special friends will probably graduate and go out into this big world. Maybe some will even be cruising dogs...

I'm attaching a link (I hope) that shows some of the pups in training. The golden retriever in the Christmas Tree picture is Cracker's sister and should graduate this camp. Also the big black lab with the balance harness also is slated for camp. If you look hard you can see Cooler: yellow lab at the aqhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7bCNGMae04uarium and one of her with "Gram". Enjoy.

This video makes me nuts....in the very best way! I could watch it over and over again. I just love these dogs and all you volunteers for your tireless work.

Happy Everything to you and for all that you do for so many!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Roz, I am so sorry you have lost your big brother--I bet it is just as hard as losing a parent. And it goes to show, even if one is super healthy, you just never know so live life now and don't put off those cruises (or anything else) for "when I'm retired," or "when I have more time." We need to make that time now!

Leo and I will be holding you in our hearts as you go through this difficult time. It's OK to be sad but remember it's also OK to be happy at times--I'm guessing your brother wouldn't want it any other way.

Hugs to you and Mr. Wizard of Roz and the gorgeous Miss Brenny!
Kathi

Kathi, thank you so much for your kind words. It's a very difficult time, for sure. Your "cyber-hugs" are much appreciated!

I believe more than ever now, that life is made to live and enjoy. I'm so happy that I have a cruise to look forward to and, my wish for everyone is that they have one too!!!!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:
Happy mother's day to all!

Sunshine: I played that video for Travis the other day. He loved it. He especially like the photos of the dogs in the pools. Him and Reno always shared the pool. He has been talking a lot about Reno lately.

I just love the Labradoodles! I just want to scratch my fingers in their hair. Roz knows I am secretly sending vibes for her to get one!

Everyone have a great day.




I, too, wished that CCI trained Labradoodles, but they don't. It sure would make the allergy and shedding thing so much easier on our allergies. But, alas, they don't and the dogs they do train are so amazingly wonderful, I'm grateful to have one.......even if the hair is "EVERYWHERE!"

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Wow is ther ever a situation over on the Carnival Board. They are really talking down on service dogs! Poor Valentine has been targeted and has had her picture p.osted as a fake service dog. I could really use your help over there here is the link
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1410108

I have not seen the thread on Carnival but you know once I get there, the "naysayers" who are picking on you or any other Certified Service Dog had better be ready for my words.

I'm sorry Valentine was targeted.....please consider the source and don't allow these folks to make you feel bad. Although, I've been there and have had some difficult times myself and I know how it feels to be picked on.......you've got us and we've definitely got your back.

Take care of yourself and take care of our little worker. She's made your life more complete and she derserves the respect she's earned.

[guitarest]

Hey Guys long time since I have logged in; sorry. Just wanted to update yall; I still haven't got off dry land yet due to personal family issues but I have become involved in something near as dear to everyones heart who has been helped by a service animal.

http://www.savedanimalsforveterans.com

That is a link to a program based in Vegas and I have started with a location here in S Mississippi. Its a Win-Win for all involved; the Vet after he gets approved by his Doctor (and can prove the ability to take care of the animal) and the Shelter wins as its a life that was not put down due to not being adopted out.

I hope all had a great Mothers Day and a Great Easter. Hey Roz here are a few more pictures of your favorite Mississippi German Shepherd when he is not working... For the local office of SAV, Blitz is going to be the mascot; I can't think of a more deserving service animal.

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz032011/blitz1.JPG

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz032011/blitz2.JPG

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz032011/blitz4.JPG

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz032011/blitz6.JPG

[guitarest]

I just read the posts sorry for your loss...

[Latitude 20]

I have not seen the thread on Carnival but you know once I get there, the "naysayers" who are picking on you or any other Certified Service Dog had better be ready for my words.

I'm sorry Valentine was targeted.....please consider the source and don't allow these folks to make you feel bad. Although, I've been there and have had some difficult times myself and I know how it feels to be picked on.......you've got us and we've definitely got your back.

Take care of yourself and take care of our little worker. She's made your life more complete and she derserves the respect she's earned.

Your post on that thread was wonderful. Hoping my more crabby posts on the same thread won't get me banned!

[wizard-of-roz]

I just read the posts sorry for your loss...

Thank you, I cry everyday for him. My brother Barry is the one who would bring all the strays home, when we were kids. I swear, he was like the pied piper.......we had such a zoo of animals [we drove our mother nuts.]

His home is filled with animals. He had a 35 year old Parrot who talked just like him and if you don't think that's not eerie to hear......it's so weird. The bird will not stop calling my brother ["Hello Barry, how are you?"] everyday [my brother would answer him and he would stop.] Well, he's not here to answer and my other brothers are trying to fake Barry's voice, just to shut the bird up!!] It would be funny, if it weren't so sad. My sister-in-law hates the bird, always did. Oh well, we'll see just what family member becomes the adoptive parent. We'll see!!!!!

Morey posted on the Carnival thread, in response to the monstrous things that were being said and implied about Service Dogs.

He's my biggest defender.....[actually, I think he'd defend Brenda before me any day!!!!]

[Valentine's Mom]

Roz you are a wonderful person and you always know justy what to say to make us feel better no matter what we go through. I just wish that I could think of the words to say to take away some of your pain.:( Just remember we are here for you when you need to talk.

Hugs and kisses

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz you are a wonderful person and you always know justy what to say to make us feel better no matter what we go through. I just wish that I could think of the words to say to take away some of your pain.:( Just remember we are here for you when you need to talk.

Hugs and kisses

Thank you! You've all been a wonderful source of "centerness" for me. I'm very lucky in that I have lots of family and friends. You guys are different..... We share the same sort of bond with our dogs and understand the love and devotion that goes with what we do with our canine partners on a daily basis.

We truly understand each other and I so appreciate each and every one of you and thank you so much for your genorosity of spirit and kindness with your words, it means a lot to me.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Evenin' all:
Guitarest: I wondered where you went! I am glad you have been busy. Blitz is a natural as a mascot! What a handsome boy.

Just wanted to come on here and feel "my sense of being" if that makes any sense. Sometimes I just have to reground myself!

Everyone have a great evening.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Guitarist: Thanks for sharing Blitz with us, he's a beautiful boy. I haven't had a chance to look at the link that you sent. I will look later this week.

I'm sitting here on Morey's computer trying to get some downtime before tomorrow's golf tournament. It's going to be huge and the day will be filled with many demands, which will be good, as my mind is wondering a lot these days and I find myself crying at every turn. Everyone around me is just going to have to put up with the sniffeling mess called "Roz!" I can do it, afterall, this is the stuff that pays for those cruises-that take me away from it all!!!!!

Nancy: I hear you girl. "This" is where "it" all makes sense!

[cjborne2]

We received our flight information today. About 6 weeks until we cruise!

[newcatintown]

While i won't call them ignorant, the nay-sayers on the other thread are either woefully uninformed or just plain hard-headed. You do have a good deal of support there.

Many just don't understand that all service dogs are not German Shepards :eek:, and while there is abuse of the system in condos, stores, etc, I'd be willing to bet you many would be detered by the cost and the hoops you have to jump through to pull that crap with a foriegn country.

It was also pointed out that our perceptions may be regionally related. I very rarely see service dogs where I live, but apparently South Florida has many, mostly in strollers. How many are skirting the law, I wouldn't venture to guess. I don't see enough to even consider questioning whether it was a true service animal, but if I saw them all the time, that train of thought might change somewhat.

I support service animals 100% at all times. I try to see things from both sides, and in this thread, I fall on the service animals side without question. Some cruisers have their issues, but they're miinimal and can be avoided. Some just have no compassion for their fellow humans.

[guitarest]

Many just don't understand that all service dogs are not German Shepherds :eek:



Not GSD's.....

Bite your tongue...... lol

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz7.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

We received our flight information today. About 6 weeks until we cruise!

Good for you. Don't you just love the planning and the thinking about that gorgeous, floating hotel? I love it!

[wizard-of-roz]

While i won't call them ignorant, the nay-sayers on the other thread are either woefully uninformed or just plain hard-headed. You do have a good deal of support there.

Many just don't understand that all service dogs are not German Shepards :eek:, and while there is abuse of the system in condos, stores, etc, I'd be willing to bet you many would be detered by the cost and the hoops you have to jump through to pull that crap with a foriegn country.

It was also pointed out that our perceptions may be regionally related. I very rarely see service dogs where I live, but apparently South Florida has many, mostly in strollers. How many are skirting the law, I wouldn't venture to guess. I don't see enough to even consider questioning whether it was a true service animal, but if I saw them all the time, that train of thought might change somewhat.

I support service animals 100% at all times. I try to see things from both sides, and in this thread, I fall on the service animals side without question. Some cruisers have their issues, but they're miinimal and can be avoided. Some just have no compassion for their fellow humans.

Amen, to your every word!!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Not GSD's.....

Bite your tongue...... lol

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz7.jpg

OMG!!!!! This dog makes me nuts. I just love him!!!!!! :p;)

[guitarest]

Hey Roz, give me a day or two and I'll post a picture with Blitz in his working clothes...

[wizard-of-roz]

Hey Roz, give me a day or two and I'll post a picture with Blitz in his working clothes...

I'd love to see them.....You know how most people feel about German Shephard's? They're pretty much afraid of them.......Well, Blitz has such a great face, all I want to do is "snuggle" with him!

[guitarest]

My last pup (King) passed two years ago and he was my once in a life time best friend and pup rolled into one. He was with me ony 8 years and it was so painful when he passed away; Julie (my daughter) talked me into getting Blitz and its been a great thing since.... Roz I hope to be in the LA area in about 4 weeks; and he loves people hugging on him; he returns huge wet kisses.....

The weather is starting to get bad so it will have to wait for his dressed up picture how about a pic at 6 week with my daughter?

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz1.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

Well, the Tournament is over. We had 120 golfers and 150 for dinner. Len Goodman [Dancing With The Stars] - James Worthy [retired Laker] were so generous; they not only donated money but they donated tickets and their time. I swear the bigger some people are the nicer they are!!!!

Now, my mind is back on my interview at CCI, on June 24th for a Successor Dog. Brenda is doing great. She didn't go to the tournament with me, I just couldn't put her through the stress of that day. I do much better in "all" situations with her but, it's just not fair to "push" her to the point of exhaustion. And, that point comes easier and easier to her, these days.

To imagine not having Brenda with me on my futures cruise adventures is very tough to take. I know I'll love my new dog......but, will I ever love another dog as much as I love Brenda?

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

[wizard-of-roz]

My last pup (King) passed two years ago and he was my once in a life time best friend and pup rolled into one. He was with me ony 8 years and it was so painful when he passed away; Julie (my daughter) talked me into getting Blitz and its been a great thing since.... Roz I hope to be in the LA area in about 4 weeks; and he loves people hugging on him; he returns huge wet kisses.....

The weather is starting to get bad so it will have to wait for his dressed up picture how about a pic at 6 week with my daughter?

http://pruconsultants.com/blitz1.jpg

Oh! No! I don't know who's cuter Blitz or your daughter?

[DisneyKidsDad]

Well, the Tournament is over. We had 120 golfers and 150 for dinner. Len Goodman [Dancing With The Stars] - James Worthy [retired Laker] were so generous; they not only donated money but they donated tickets and their time. I swear the bigger some people are the nicer they are!!!!

Now, my mind is back on my interview at CCI, on June 24th for a Successor Dog. Brenda is doing great. She didn't go to the tournament with me, I just couldn't put her through the stress of that day. I do much better in "all" situations with her but, it's just not fair to "push" her to the point of exhaustion. And, that point comes easier and easier to her, these days.

To imagine not having Brenda with me on my futures cruise adventures is very tough to take. I know I'll love my new dog......but, will I ever love another dog as much as I love Brenda?

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

Roz,
First off...so sorry for your loss.
Glad everything worked out well for you with the tournament.
As far as loving another dog as much as Brenda. You will never
love another dog the same way as Brenda, but you WILL love another dog as much as Brenda.

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz,
First off...so sorry for your loss.
Glad everything worked out well for you with the tournament.
As far as loving another dog as much as Brenda. You will never
love another dog the same way as Brenda, but you WILL love another dog as much as Brenda.

Thank you for your kind words.

And, thanks for my tear for the day. A good tear but still my first for the day. You put it [the loving for our dogs] very well......but then, you always do, I count on you for this!!!!

Thank you!

[guitarest]

Your right Roz she is a cutie for sure, something that pretty and I helped provide some of that DNA..... lol

OK Roz, weather suks and I asked Blitz to give me a hand and since he is a huge ham.

Hope it was worth the wait; while not his best picture it shows his other side. When the vest goes on and he steps outside that door he becomes very serious and loves to work.

http://pruconsultants.com/blitzvest.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

Your right Roz she is a cutie for sure, something that pretty and I helped provide some of that DNA..... lol

OK Roz, weather suks and I asked Blitz to give me a hand and since he is a huge ham.

Hope it was worth the wait; while not his best picture it shows his other side. When the vest goes on and he steps outside that door he becomes very serious and loves to work.

http://pruconsultants.com/blitzvest.jpg

He's such a beautiful dog.

[guitarest]

Thank you

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:

DKD: Also, thank you for the tears! What beautiful words.

Guitarest: Blitz has such a happy look on his face. I can just see that tail wagging! He does scream out "huggle me!"

Roz: DKD is right. As much as I loved my big boy Reno, I love little Jezzy Lou to death. She sleeps right next to me, every night. In the middle of the night I pet her and she snuggles even closer. Big boy never slept in our bed.

Hope everyone has a nice day. Its overcast here. May have thunderstorms, we shall see.

Ops, Roz, did I tell you? We are coming home! Had our fill of nasty relatives and we are going back to Arizona. Should be there by next month.

[guitarest]

If there is anything I could change about Blitz it would be the tail wagging part. That thing is a lethal weapon for sure. I can't even begin to try to count the number of drinks he has spilled with that thing. My left leg is very sensitive and sometimes unstable and I know he does not intend to hurt me although maybe once a month I get a good whack from that tail. That thing is most dangerous when we go in the back yard to play. Thats why I make him sit down before going out any door; it takes that tail and turns the safety on; lol.

All joking aside he is a wonderful helper and learns new tasks very quickly. I have a new vest coming that has a hard plastic handle which is better than the softer one on his current vest. One of the things he is trained to do is to assist me in walking on those really bad days (which are becoming more of the norm). I grab the handle and Blitz will walk real slow with me and it helps especially going up a incline. On Easter day we went to the beach and even with his help it was too difficult to walk in the sand. I tell ya the Jocko of 25 years ago would kick my butt if he knew this was going to happen; lol.... I got adventurist and walked down a incline to get tothe water near the pier (I was on pavement or hard surfaces now) and had it not been for Blitz it would have been a tough time getting back to level ground. Sometimes I tend to forget my legs do not work like they used too. A couple years ago I was in a accident and that further messed up my left leg; I need to have surgury although I have other issues like bloodclots. I have had a few serious clots in my left leg (3) my right leg had one and I also have had a pulmonary embolism. So I am also taking rat poison or some know it as Coumadin. Its funny thats what this medcine is also or used to be used as, I personally think its pretty damn funny. So I need knee surgury and no one will do it because of the clots since I have to get off comadin for surgury.

Long story short, yup that tail can be dangerous...... :cool:

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:

DKD: Also, thank you for the tears! What beautiful words.

Guitarest: Blitz has such a happy look on his face. I can just see that tail wagging! He does scream out "huggle me!"

Roz: DKD is right. As much as I loved my big boy Reno, I love little Jezzy Lou to death. She sleeps right next to me, every night. In the middle of the night I pet her and she snuggles even closer. Big boy never slept in our bed.

Hope everyone has a nice day. Its overcast here. May have thunderstorms, we shall see.

Ops, Roz, did I tell you? We are coming home! Had our fill of nasty relatives and we are going back to Arizona. Should be there by next month.



Nancy, I'm sorry your move didn't work out for you. It's important that we have a comfort zone where we live and it sounds like you really didn't have one. I hope your move back goes well for you. Let us know when you're "home."

Get ready for the summer.....you're used to it and know what to expect.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

If there is anything I could change about Blitz it would be the tail wagging part. That thing is a lethal weapon for sure. I can't even begin to try to count the number of drinks he has spilled with that thing. My left leg is very sensitive and sometimes unstable and I know he does not intend to hurt me although maybe once a month I get a good whack from that tail. That thing is most dangerous when we go in the back yard to play. Thats why I make him sit down before going out any door; it takes that tail and turns the safety on; lol.

All joking aside he is a wonderful helper and learns new tasks very quickly. I have a new vest coming that has a hard plastic handle which is better than the softer one on his current vest. One of the things he is trained to do is to assist me in walking on those really bad days (which are becoming more of the norm). I grab the handle and Blitz will walk real slow with me and it helps especially going up a incline. On Easter day we went to the beach and even with his help it was too difficult to walk in the sand. I tell ya the Jocko of 25 years ago would kick my butt if he knew this was going to happen; lol.... I got adventurist and walked down a incline to get tothe water near the pier (I was on pavement or hard surfaces now) and had it not been for Blitz it would have been a tough time getting back to level ground. Sometimes I tend to forget my legs do not work like they used too. A couple years ago I was in a accident and that further messed up my left leg; I need to have surgury although I have other issues like bloodclots. I have had a few serious clots in my left leg (3) my right leg had one and I also have had a pulmonary embolism. So I am also taking rat poison or some know it as Coumadin. Its funny thats what this medcine is also or used to be used as, I personally think its pretty damn funny. So I need knee surgury and no one will do it because of the clots since I have to get off comadin for surgury.

Long story short, yup that tail can be dangerous...... :cool:

I don't know if there's specific training to keep the dog from wagging their tail in the direction of your legs......but, you certainly can "re-direct" Blitz [as you're doing], with having him sit when he's close by you or even having him go into a "down/stay", until you can reposition yourself.

I know exactly what you're saying about knocking over stuff on coffee tables - I've been in friends homes where their dog has knocked everything off the table. Brenda backs herself out of "close" situations and is so aware of her own body and what she's capable of doing. She's very unique in this way. She also doesn't like to be dirty or have "stuff" on her paws/head or muzzle. It's nice for me that her OCD makes my life easier!!!! ;)

You've been through a lot of health issues and still you have a strong and positive outlook - keep it up, your attitude is what is going to save you in the long run.....as we, who walk or wheel with our dogs are very well aware of!

We also have each other to share our lives experiences with and that's a very good thing! :)

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Roz: You know we would have kicked ourselves if we didn't try it. Now we can say we gave it a shot. it didn't work out and move on. Yes, we are preparing for the heat! Trav asked me this morning if it is going to be warm there! Its only 37 degrees right now so he is chilly. I told him not only warm, HOT! He doesn't seem to mind the heat. I guess its us old folks who do. We will be fine.

[rangeley]

Well, the Tournament is over. We had 120 golfers and 150 for dinner. Len Goodman [Dancing With The Stars] - James Worthy [retired Laker] were so generous; they not only donated money but they donated tickets and their time. I swear the bigger some people are the nicer they are!!!!

Now, my mind is back on my interview at CCI, on June 24th for a Successor Dog. Brenda is doing great. She didn't go to the tournament with me, I just couldn't put her through the stress of that day. I do much better in "all" situations with her but, it's just not fair to "push" her to the point of exhaustion. And, that point comes easier and easier to her, these days.

To imagine not having Brenda with me on my futures cruise adventures is very tough to take. I know I'll love my new dog......but, will I ever love another dog as much as I love Brenda?

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

Roz, So glad to hear your tournament went well. It's nice to see there are still some caring people out there!

As far as loving a new dog as much as Brenny...it is possible!! I never thought I could fall in love with another dog when Rangeley passed. He was my baby and I loved him to death. I was against getting another service dog and at the time John agreed. Then after a year, John said he wanted another dog. I wasn't happy but if he felt he needed and wanted one, what could I do. Now I can't imagine being without Wex! Rangeley thought he was royality. He was a very serious dog, wasn't much into playing or fun. Then came Wexler, he is Rangeley plus. He does so many Rangeley things and he is the most fun dog I've ever met. He really makes us laugh everyday. He's my big goof and I love him as much as I loved Rangeley. Of course I don't want to take away anything from my Bailee! I loved her too and she was a fun dog and so so good. But she wasn't as lovey as the other two. She was to obsessed with playing ball. The 28th will be one year she is gone. I have been thinking about her alot.

Cindy

[rangeley]

Nancy, Best of luck on your move back to Arizona. You are going from one extreme to another. Personally I hate the heat and would rather be in Colorado! We have been so lucky here (not according to John) it's been cool and comfy. Usually this time of year it's getting hot. I couldn't be happier with 65 degree weather.

Cindy

[sunshine426]

Hey Guys! Sorry I've been gone so long. We are still dealing with health issues with Rich's mom and it is keeping us both busy. And tired. And stressed. And sometimes sad...But Good News: I just completed by third Iron Girl Triathalon this morning. Instead of celebrating with a boat day, we are preparing to go over to Gram's to check her out. She fell last night and dislocated her artifical hip. Locally they were able to relocate it in the ED. But, it meant a long night for Rich as he and I were at the hotel, trying to rest before the triathalon. Rich went to the ED. I shed some selfish tears thinking no one would be at the finsih line for me. But, Rich made it back by 3am, got up with me at 4:30 am and is still going.

Next time I'll have fun Cooler stories for you.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Cindy: I know how you feel. I showed Trav, Sunshines video with Service Dogs and he kept saying, "Ah, that one looks like Reno, I miss him so much, I want him back home with us." Darn near killed me. He was a fun dog too. He wasn't as lovey dovey, but had to be touching one of us.

Ms. Sunshine: You Rock! Congrats on the triathalon. Sorry about Rich's mom. I went thru that with mom at the last nursing home. She fell 3 times there. Here she hasn't fallen once. I hope Gram is fine. It is so draining. Selfish tears are okay. You worked very hard so you could do the triathalon and you deserve to be selfish!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Mornin' all:
Roz: You know we would have kicked ourselves if we didn't try it. Now we can say we gave it a shot. it didn't work out and move on. Yes, we are preparing for the heat! Trav asked me this morning if it is going to be warm there! Its only 37 degrees right now so he is chilly. I told him not only warm, HOT! He doesn't seem to mind the heat. I guess its us old folks who do. We will be fine.


I know you'll be fine. You're a "get-up-and-go" kind of gal. You take care of business and move on!

As long as the heat is DRY I can bare heat. It's when humidity comes into the equation that I literally melt!!!!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Roz, So glad to hear your tournament went well. It's nice to see there are still some caring people out there!

As far as loving a new dog as much as Brenny...it is possible!! I never thought I could fall in love with another dog when Rangeley passed. He was my baby and I loved him to death. I was against getting another service dog and at the time John agreed. Then after a year, John said he wanted another dog. I wasn't happy but if he felt he needed and wanted one, what could I do. Now I can't imagine being without Wex! Rangeley thought he was royality. He was a very serious dog, wasn't much into playing or fun. Then came Wexler, he is Rangeley plus. He does so many Rangeley things and he is the most fun dog I've ever met. He really makes us laugh everyday. He's my big goof and I love him as much as I loved Rangeley. Of course I don't want to take away anything from my Bailee! I loved her too and she was a fun dog and so so good. But she wasn't as lovey as the other two. She was to obsessed with playing ball. The 28th will be one year she is gone. I have been thinking about her alot.

Cindy

You've described all your babies so clearly. I feel like I've known them all. I love how they each have such unique personalities.

I know that there are some folks who have one Service Dog and never get another. They just felt that they couldn't put so much emotion and physical energy into another dog. Although I totally understand, I just know that once I've had the experience of life with an SD, I don't think I'd be as complete without another.

Brenda has taught me to be so loving, giving and grounded with a Service Dog, I know I'd feel fragmented without one.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hey Guys! Sorry I've been gone so long. We are still dealing with health issues with Rich's mom and it is keeping us both busy. And tired. And stressed. And sometimes sad...But Good News: I just completed by third Iron Girl Triathalon this morning. Instead of celebrating with a boat day, we are preparing to go over to Gram's to check her out. She fell last night and dislocated her artifical hip. Locally they were able to relocate it in the ED. But, it meant a long night for Rich as he and I were at the hotel, trying to rest before the triathalon. Rich went to the ED. I shed some selfish tears thinking no one would be at the finsih line for me. But, Rich made it back by 3am, got up with me at 4:30 am and is still going.

Next time I'll have fun Cooler stories for you.

Sunshine, I hope this finds Rich's mom doing somewhat better. Talk about exhausting.....Rich is a very special guy, the way he divides his time between his mom and you.

How'd you do at the Triathalon? [You are such an amazing woman.] Who do you think you are? Superwoman!!!!!!!! If anyone could pull this off - it would be you!

[rangeley]

Hey Guys! Sorry I've been gone so long. We are still dealing with health issues with Rich's mom and it is keeping us both busy. And tired. And stressed. And sometimes sad...But Good News: I just completed by third Iron Girl Triathalon this morning. Instead of celebrating with a boat day, we are preparing to go over to Gram's to check her out. She fell last night and dislocated her artifical hip. Locally they were able to relocate it in the ED. But, it meant a long night for Rich as he and I were at the hotel, trying to rest before the triathalon. Rich went to the ED. I shed some selfish tears thinking no one would be at the finsih line for me. But, Rich made it back by 3am, got up with me at 4:30 am and is still going.

Next time I'll have fun Cooler stories for you.


Sunshine, Glad to hear from you. We all have our hard times and we are here to support you when you need us. Seems we are all going through something at the same time. Hope everything works out.

Congrats on your triathalon!!!! Your hubby sounds like a great guy, you better keep him.

[Latitude 20]

Wow is ther ever a situation over on the Carnival Board. They are really talking down on service dogs! Poor Valentine has been targeted and has had her picture p.osted as a fake service dog. I could really use your help over there here is the link
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1410108

Whew--finally got that ridiculous thread locked down tonight. Don't know if it was just me but I was happy to see the mods lock it within an hour of my flagging it.

It got to the point that people were bumping it up just to keep the trolls going! I tried at the beginning to provide some actual information (as I know many of you did too) but the past couple days were just people baiting each other.

The main thing that thread did was put me off of ever cruising with Carnival--those folks are just plain mean!

[celle]

Whew--finally got that ridiculous thread locked down tonight. Don't know if it was just me but I was happy to see the mods lock it within an hour of my flagging it.

It got to the point that people were bumping it up just to keep the trolls going! I tried at the beginning to provide some actual information (as I know many of you did too) but the past couple days were just people baiting each other.

The main thing that thread did was put me off of ever cruising with Carnival--those folks are just plain mean!

I'm glad you did that, even though some of my posts were removed towards the end. I did provide some facts - they were ignored. I must learn not to try and reason with idiots!! :D

[newcatintown]

Whew--finally got that ridiculous thread locked down tonight. Don't know if it was just me but I was happy to see the mods lock it within an hour of my flagging it.

It got to the point that people were bumping it up just to keep the trolls going! I tried at the beginning to provide some actual information (as I know many of you did too) but the past couple days were just people baiting each other.

The main thing that thread did was put me off of ever cruising with Carnival--those folks are just plain mean!

Don't discount Carnival b/c of that thread. There was a good bit of support, but the people with brains in their head backed off when the trolls took over. I appreciated the info you provided, thank you.:)

Celle, you tried, bless your heart. Some people are just too darned hard-headed and hard-hearted for their own good. That's what I was seeing, and like you said, can't reason with idiots.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Oh! No! Please don't blame Carnival for the rantings of some.

Although, we do prefer Princess to Carnival, it's fun to meet new folks on all different lines.

[Latitude 20]

I'm glad you did that, even though some of my posts were removed towards the end. I did provide some facts - they were ignored. I must learn not to try and reason with idiots!! :D

Don't discount Carnival b/c of that thread. There was a good bit of support, but the people with brains in their head backed off when the trolls took over. I appreciated the info you provided, thank you.:)

Celle, you tried, bless your heart. Some people are just too darned hard-headed and hard-hearted for their own good. That's what I was seeing, and like you said, can't reason with idiots.

Oh! No! Please don't blame Carnival for the rantings of some.

Although, we do prefer Princess to Carnival, it's fun to meet new folks on all different lines.

Thanks for your support. I'm just a bit crabby after seeing what's been going on in that thread for the past couple days. I realize that a few trolls don't represent the majority of Carnival passengers.

But let's just let sleeping dogs lie (pun totally intended!) and get back to sharing stories about our furry helpers and, most importantly, our cruises!

[rangeley]

I had to stop reading that Carnival thread. You don't know how much I wanted to comment there, but you could see there were some real idiots that didn't want to listen or learn. I knew I would blow up so I restrained myself :D

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

I had to stop reading that Carnival thread. You don't know how much I wanted to comment there, but you could see there were some real idiots that didn't want to listen or learn. I knew I would blow up so I restrained myself :D

Cindy

Good girl, I'm proud of you. I just hope that Valentine's Mom understands that there will ALWAYS be folks who just plain don't like dogs and when they see one in THEIR space, they can literally become unglued [and, unhinged!]

Most importantly, the people who do handle a Service/Working Dog should feel that the world is open to them, to enjoy in any way they can along with their amazing dogs.

Cruising with your dog is pure joy and has the potential of bringing the world to you onboard an elegant floating hotel.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Afternoon all:
And, Miriam and I were the last two to post! I see that as a victory, since I had to use caps and large font to yell at the fools! I couldn't believe it went so long. I am sure something else will pop up in the next day or two.

I have seriously thought that the moderators actually stir the pot and start some of the threads, not that one, but smuggling alcohol and dress code ones, just to get some banter going. Maybe, maybe not.

[Valentine's Mom]

I agree there are a lot of strange people on that thread, down right MEAN. It reminds me of the ****s of years gone by. Everyone not absoutl perfect was not to try to go out or try anything. I'm glad to see that it's gone. I did write a not to the moderators last night also. It went fron information to just plain mean.

They were also picking at poor Valentine. Don't worry about us thoough Roz. Valentine and I were talking about our next cruise (in Europe) and she says she wants a new foo foo dress and head piece for every night of the 16 day cruise instead of her same old working vest. She also said that she wants to travel in style in a stroller instead of her inconspictuous doggy roller board type luggage.

No I haven't gone bonkers yet but they were using her PICTURE and she was doing exactly what she is trained to do,ride in the travel case and be quiet inconspictous and keep an eye, ear, and nose on Mommy.

At the end they were picking on scooters and electric wheelchairs. I use a scooter part time and when I do Valentine rides with me in the basket. I have MS among other things and sometimes I can walk and sometines I cant.

We could really freak out some people if we wanted. Valentine could wear fancy dresses, shoes, ribbons, and sunglasses and ride in a stroller, LOL What do you think LOL You just have to laugh. A couple of those people have problems.

Seriously though. I was thinking of using her stroller this time but not so much for her but for me. It acts like a walker and I stand straighter and have something to hold on to for suport. What do you think,. Too Much?

[celle]

I agree there are a lot of strange people on that thread, down right MEAN. It reminds me of the ****s of years gone by. Everyone not absoutl perfect was not to try to go out or try anything. I'm glad to see that it's gone. I did write a not to the moderators last night also. It went fron information to just plain mean.

They were also picking at poor Valentine. Don't worry about us thoough Roz. Valentine and I were talking about our next cruise (in Europe) and she says she wants a new foo foo dress and head piece for every night of the 16 day cruise instead of her same old working vest. She also said that she wants to travel in style in a stroller instead of her inconspictuous doggy roller board type luggage.

No I haven't gone bonkers yet but they were using her PICTURE and she was doing exactly what she is trained to do,ride in the travel case and be quiet inconspictous and keep an eye, ear, and nose on Mommy.

At the end they were picking on scooters and electric wheelchairs. I use a scooter part time and when I do Valentine rides with me in the basket. I have MS among other things and sometimes I can walk and sometines I cant.

We could really freak out some people if we wanted. Valentine could wear fancy dresses, shoes, ribbons, and sunglasses and ride in a stroller, LOL What do you think LOL You just have to laugh. A couple of those people have problems.

Seriously though. I was thinking of using her stroller this time but not so much for her but for me. It acts like a walker and I stand straighter and have something to hold on to for suport. What do you think,. Too Much?

Go for it!!

Enjoy your cruise. It's nobody's business why you take your wonderful Valentine.

If I ever see you on a cruise, I'll be sure to ask if i can meet Valentine.

[wizard-of-roz]

[quote=Valentine's Mom;29153505 - Seriously though. I was thinking of using her stroller this time but not so much for her but for me. It acts like a walker and I stand straighter and have something to hold on to for support. What do you think,. Too Much?[/quote]

When I was first diagnosed I had vertigo every single day. I couldn't walk without bumping into walls and the only thing that took away the vertigo [beside the meclazine] was driving in the car [so weird!]

The doctor recommended I use a "walker", to help steady me.....well, I wasn't going to do that. I saw my neighbor with her "granny cart" and asked if I could try walking with it......it was perfect [as long as it had something in it, to stabilize it.] I bought one, and have been using it ever since [about 9 years now.] I don't have the vertigo everyday but rather than take a chance, I use the cart to just make sure it won't come back!!!! ;):p The cart is great for holding that extra stuff that I don't want to carry too!!!!

I even use the cart when were going cruising/flying/on the train and on a bus. When I finally got Brenda, I just attached her leash to the cart and we're good to go. I can walk the cart right up to the door of the plane [they tag it, take it away and bring it back when I get off!]

You use whatever it takes to make your life easier. As long as Valentine is comfortable, you should be too!!!!!

[rangeley]

When I was first diagnosed I had vertigo every single day. I couldn't walk without bumping into walls and the only thing that took away the vertigo [beside the meclazine] was driving in the car [so weird!]

The doctor recommended I use a "walker", to help steady me.....well, I wasn't going to do that. I saw my neighbor with her "granny cart" and asked if I could try walking with it......it was perfect [as long as it had something in it, to stabilize it.] I bought one, and have been using it ever since [about 9 years now.] I don't have the vertigo everyday but rather than take a chance, I use the cart to just make sure it won't come back!!!! ;):p The cart is great for holding that extra stuff that I don't want to carry too!!!!

I even use the cart when were going cruising/flying/on the train and on a bus. When I finally got Brenda, I just attached her leash to the cart and we're good to go. I can walk the cart right up to the door of the plane [they tag it, take it away and bring it back when I get off!]

You use whatever it takes to make your life easier. As long as Valentine is comfortable, you should be too!!!!!

I have a "granny cart". When I first came here we made fun of them, then I realized it would be great for me. I have to park in the back parking lot, so it's a good walk to the building. The cart is a life saver. I take laundry home to CT so the cart is great for lugging it to my car, also for groceries. Guess I am old now. :mad:

Cindy

[Valentine's Mom]

You guys are the Greatest! The stroller started out to be a joke but I am thinking seriously about it. The 2 basic reasons are it keeps me walking and upright and she enjoys it and can hide when she's had too many drive by pettings. I can just zip her in and leave an opening between us for her to do her job. I just might do it!! Phooy to everyone who complains. So long about October or November on the T/A for the Majic someone is complaining about a foo foo pet you will know it it only Valentine just doing out thing. LOL:D

[Latitude 20]

You guys are the Greatest! The stroller started out to be a joke but I am thinking seriously about it. The 2 basic reasons are it keeps me walking and upright and she enjoys it and can hide when she's had too many drive by pettings. I can just zip her in and leave an opening between us for her to do her job. I just might do it!! Phooy to everyone who complains. So long about October or November on the T/A for the Majic someone is complaining about a foo foo pet you will know it it only Valentine just doing out thing. LOL:D

Hi Val's Mom! You were so brave to jump into that darn thread and you deserve to do whatever you want for your Magic TA! But having just researched strollers for my new grandniece, they're pretty much flimsy junk unless you're willing to spend upwards of $200. Might be better to invest in a good rollator with a basket and seat like this: http://www.1stseniorcare.com/browseproducts/TuffCare-R430-Walker-with-basket.html. Put Valentine in a zip carrier (with the zipper open) in the basket and you've got a mobility aid, dog carrier and handy-dandy chair for waiting in lines all in one!

Have a great cruise no matter what you decide to do. We loved our November TA a few years ago--the weather and seas were superb!

Kathi

[Valentine's Mom]

Hi Val's Mom! You were so brave to jump into that darn thread and you deserve to do whatever you want for your Magic TA! But having just researched strollers for my new grandniece, they're pretty much flimsy junk unless you're willing to spend upwards of $200. Might be better to invest in a good rollator with a basket and seat like this: http://www.1stseniorcare.com/browseproducts/TuffCare-R430-Walker-with-basket.html. Put Valentine in a zip carrier (with the zipper open) in the basket and you've got a mobility aid, dog carrier and handy-dandy chair for waiting in lines all in one!

Have a great cruise no matter what you decide to do. We loved our November TA a few years ago--the weather and seas were superb!

Kathi

Hi Kath,

My mother used one of those walkers that roll. It was fine for me But Valentine absolutely hated it. She is very small and her feet would fall through and if I tried to line it with say a towel , she would just want out. Fellt unsafe. I .have a pretty good doggy stroller that I use when we travel in our RV to keep the bugs off. I;m really leaning this way though,:D

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Hi Val's Mom! You were so brave to jump into that darn thread and you deserve to do whatever you want for your Magic TA! But having just researched strollers for my new grandniece, they're pretty much flimsy junk unless you're willing to spend upwards of $200. Might be better to invest in a good rollator with a basket and seat like this: http://www.1stseniorcare.com/browseproducts/TuffCare-R430-Walker-with-basket.html. Put Valentine in a zip carrier (with the zipper open) in the basket and you've got a mobility aid, dog carrier and handy-dandy chair for waiting in lines all in one!

Have a great cruise no matter what you decide to do. We loved our November TA a few years ago--the weather and seas were superb!

Kathi

That looks really nice......Wouldn't it be nice if they made something like that to fit a 60lb Lab. Then when Brenda got tired we could just ask her to take a seat and we could just keep on going. Very funny to picture!!!! ;)

[dlbutler5]

Here is a picture similar to Valentines stroller (Barb ask me to post this)

http://www.1800petmeds.com/images/products/use/60006_w_chihuahua.jpg

[dlbutler5]

Here is a picture of Valentine while we were on the Grand Princess

http://www.dave-and-barb.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=15&g2_serialNumber=2 (http://www.dave-and-barb.com/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=11)

[S.S. Cruisers]

Here is a picture similar to Valentines stroller (Barb ask me to post this)

http://www.1800petmeds.com/images/products/use/60006_w_chihuahua.jpg
I love it! I can just picture Valentine in it. She is so cute. I say Nana Nana Boo Boo to the uneducated people that have no clue what it is like to have a disability.

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Here is a picture of Valentine while we were on the Grand Princess

http://www.dave-and-barb.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=15&g2_serialNumber=2 (http://www.dave-and-barb.com/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=11)


What a beautiful little girl.....I want to hold and hug her!

The fact that she's Barb's "life saver" makes her the "cutest, little, super-hero" I've ever seen!!!!

I would love to be on a cruise with all of you! Hopefully, one day, it will happen!

[newcatintown]

:)When I was first diagnosed I had vertigo every single day. I couldn't walk without bumping into walls and the only thing that took away the vertigo [beside the meclazine] was driving in the car [so weird!]

The doctor recommended I use a "walker", to help steady me.....well, I wasn't going to do that. I saw my neighbor with her "granny cart" and asked if I could try walking with it......it was perfect [as long as it had something in it, to stabilize it.] I bought one, and have been using it ever since [about 9 years now.] I don't have the vertigo everyday but rather than take a chance, I use the cart to just make sure it won't come back!!!! ;):p The cart is great for holding that extra stuff that I don't want to carry too!!!!

I even use the cart when were going cruising/flying/on the train and on a bus. When I finally got Brenda, I just attached her leash to the cart and we're good to go. I can walk the cart right up to the door of the plane [they tag it, take it away and bring it back when I get off!]

You use whatever it takes to make your life easier. As long as Valentine is comfortable, you should be too!!!!!


oh crap!! what is the name of that? mal de something or another... like never losing your sea legs once on land. I saw a doc on this a while back and it was about a woman that came down with it after flying (not her first rodeo here either). Driving became here refuge, it was the only time she could get relief. Ruined her marriage and job. Bless your heart :)

[celle]

:)


oh crap!! what is the name of that? mal de something or another... like never losing your sea legs once on land. I saw a doc on this a while back and it was about a woman that came down with it after flying (not her first rodeo here either). Driving became here refuge, it was the only time she could get relief. Ruined her marriage and job. Bless your heart :)

"mal de debarquement". The fluid in the semi-circular canals in your ear keeps moving, as it has been doing on the ship. It can take a while to settle down after you get off the ship.

My DH, who was already partially deaf in both ears, had a diving accident and ruptured one of the windows between his middle and inner ear (just one ear). Sea water rushed in at pressure, because he was underwater. It knocked off all the little hairs that react to sound, and left him permanently almost totally deaf in that ear.

Losing his hearing was a real downer, but the worst thing about the accident was that he had extreme dizziness and nausea for months afterwards and couldn't lift his head off the pillow without vomiting. He had to wear an anti-nausea patch behind his ear for months.

He eventually had the torn hole repaired, which cured the dizziness and nausea, but his hearing will never come back.

I've said before that I think I am his hearing service dog - one day he may be ready to accept four-legged help, but until then, I'm it! :D

[S.S. Cruisers]

Celle: And your husband is lucky to have you!

[sunshine426]

Canine Assistants Camp is complete with some wonderful new service dog teams. Cracker's sister has a wonderful recepient. I was unable to attend (elder care still running my life), but I saw some lovely pictures and it looks like a heavenly match. Makes all those middle of the night potty runs or those exciting trips on public transportation well worth it.

[S.S. Cruisers]

Karen: Good job!

[celle]

Celle: And your husband is lucky to have you!

Thanks.

We do have a cat who growls when she hears anyone coming to our front door. She hears visitors long before I do. :)

[Rolls Royce Lover]

:)


oh crap!! what is the name of that? mal de something or another... like never losing your sea legs once on land. I saw a doc on this a while back and it was about a woman that came down with it after flying (not her first rodeo here either). Driving became here refuge, it was the only time she could get relief. Ruined her marriage and job. Bless your heart :)

Interesting how a Service Dog can play a very important role in this scenerio.

I truly feel had I NOT received Brenda, my life would have turned-out totally differently. I know for sure, I would not have my job......and, my DH was quickly tiring of following me around wherever I would go.

My Service Dog-Brenda has brought true independence into my life and has given me the courage to go into places I would have never gone without her!!!!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

"mal de debarquement". The fluid in the semi-circular canals in your ear keeps moving, as it has been doing on the ship. It can take a while to settle down after you get off the ship.

My DH, who was already partially deaf in both ears, had a diving accident and ruptured one of the windows between his middle and inner ear (just one ear). Sea water rushed in at pressure, because he was underwater. It knocked off all the little hairs that react to sound, and left him permanently almost totally deaf in that ear.

Losing his hearing was a real downer, but the worst thing about the accident was that he had extreme dizziness and nausea for months afterwards and couldn't lift his head off the pillow without vomiting. He had to wear an anti-nausea patch behind his ear for months.

He eventually had the torn hole repaired, which cured the dizziness and nausea, but his hearing will never come back.

I've said before that I think I am his hearing service dog - one day he may be ready to accept four-legged help, but until then, I'm it! :D

You are a wonderful "IT"! The difference that my Morey made in my life, when my problems started about 11 years ago, was huge. He would partner me everywhere because the noise confusion was overwhelming and very scary to me.

He shadowed me at events, would go with me while shopping and would even volunteer himself at my job [secretly assisting me and giving me courage, while not showing my employer that anything was wrong with me!] He gave-up his own needs to devote his time to be with me.

Accepting my four-legged help, [as you put it], named Brenda, has given us both back our lives!!!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Canine Assistants Camp is complete with some wonderful new service dog teams. Cracker's sister has a wonderful recepient. I was unable to attend (elder care still running my life), but I saw some lovely pictures and it looks like a heavenly match. Makes all those middle of the night potty runs or those exciting trips on public transportation well worth it.

I know how much it fills your heart and soul to see these dogs go to their "forever" families to make their lives complete.

Soon you'll be back in the "mix" of puppyraising, giving folks like me the opportunity to have a Service Dog to round-out our lives edges!!!!

[Rolls Royce Lover]

Thanks.

We do have a cat who growls when she hears anyone coming to our front door. She hears visitors long before I do. :)

Now, if the growling cat would just come over to your DH and "tap" him on the knee, then take him to the door to show him where the noise was coming from.......you'd have a true "Service Cat" in your home! ;)

[DHDSal]

Many thanks for the info - we have just had experience of this query.

Thanks again!

[rangeley]

Hi All, I have alittle favor to ask my wonderful friends. For a few months now John and I have been watching these eagles from the Botanical Gardens in Norfolk Va. I'm sure some of you have seen the other eagles from Iowa on the news. We have been facinated by these birds, and I never thought I could become addicted to watching them. In April the mother bird was hit by a plane and killed. They had to remove the baby eaglets from the nest because the father could not care for them alone. They are now at the Wildlife Center in Va.. Chase Manhattan is giving away money to non profits, and we would appreciate it if all of you on facebook would go on and vote. Both places have already won 25k and are going for 250k more. You can vote for 5 different charities, but you can only vote once for each. Please vote for the Wildlife Center of Va, and the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. I think they were both in the top ten. I am posting the facebook link and also the Wildfife Center link in case you want to see them.

Thanks to All,
Cindy And John

http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/

http://www.wvec.com/marketplace/microsite-content/eagle-cam.html

Check them out, they are pretty cool!!!

[wizard-of-roz]

Hi All, I have alittle favor to ask my wonderful friends. For a few months now John and I have been watching these eagles from the Botanical Gardens in Norfolk Va. I'm sure some of you have seen the other eagles from Iowa on the news. We have been facinated by these birds, and I never thought I could become addicted to watching them. In April the mother bird was hit by a plane and killed. They had to remove the baby eaglets from the nest because the father could not care for them alone. They are now at the Wildlife Center in Va.. Chase Manhattan is giving away money to non profits, and we would appreciate it if all of you on facebook would go on and vote. Both places have already won 25k and are going for 250k more. You can vote for 5 different charities, but you can only vote once for each. Please vote for the Wildlife Center of Va, and the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. I think they were both in the top ten. I am posting the facebook link and also the Wildfife Center link in case you want to see them.

Thanks to All,
Cindy And John

http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/

http://www.wvec.com/marketplace/microsite-content/eagle-cam.html

Check them out, they are pretty cool!!!

I voted. Such amazingly wonderful birds. I love watching them and I hope that they are able to thrive with the help of many.

Thanks for sharing this wonderful story with us.

[S.S. Cruisers]

I think I voted, kinda confusing.

[Valentine's Mom]

Hi All, I have alittle favor to ask my wonderful friends. For a few months now John and I have been watching these eagles from the Botanical Gardens in Norfolk Va. I'm sure some of you have seen the other eagles from Iowa on the news. We have been facinated by these birds, and I never thought I could become addicted to watching them. In April the mother bird was hit by a plane and killed. They had to remove the baby eaglets from the nest because the father could not care for them alone. They are now at the Wildlife Center in Va.. Chase Manhattan is giving away money to non profits, and we would appreciate it if all of you on facebook would go on and vote. Both places have already won 25k and are going for 250k more. You can vote for 5 different charities, but you can only vote once for each. Please vote for the Wildlife Center of Va, and the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. I think they were both in the top ten. I am posting the facebook link and also the Wildfife Center link in case you want to see them.

Thanks to All,
Cindy And John

http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/

http://www.wvec.com/marketplace/microsite-content/eagle-cam.html

Check them out, they are pretty cool!!!


Yes I live in Virginia Beach which is just a stones throw from Norfolk and it was quite a story on the news both tv and papers. With 2 regular airports and all of the Navy air bases in our area I am so glad that it doesn't happen more often. Eagles are so rare and we don't often see them down south. Thanks for the info and I am sure that everyone in the area will appreciate the money.

[guitarest]

Hey Roz since you enjoy his pictures so much; here is Blitz with his newest lil family member. My daughter was so impressed with Blitz she purchased a pup very much like him. This little lady has East German Mom and Dad and Blitz has East German and Czeck blood lines.

Today we have found such determination equals a situation where a Mexican Stand-off would be the easiest way to explain todays event.

My daughter took this photo of Blitz and his new little friend (Diamond) today and the photo pretty much sums up the event.

http://pruconsultants.com/mexicanstandoff.jpg

[S.S. Cruisers]

Mornin' all:
Guitarest: Oh my goodness, what a cutie. She looks more like she is saying, "Come on, let's play." Blitz looks like he saying, "Go ahead, make my day, grab the toy." I saw a video from youtube the other day where a Chihuahua is in its bed eating a bone and they put a stuffed dog up by them. It is hysterical. The Chi starts growling at it and biting it. Poor thing will probably has issue for life.

[rangeley]

Yes I live in Virginia Beach which is just a stones throw from Norfolk and it was quite a story on the news both tv and papers. With 2 regular airports and all of the Navy air bases in our area I am so glad that it doesn't happen more often. Eagles are so rare and we don't often see them down south. Thanks for the info and I am sure that everyone in the area will appreciate the money.

I did not know you were from there, you must have heard all about the eaglets. The wildlife Center has around 200 animals there. They do great work and I just love supporting places like that.

Cindy

[wizard-of-roz]

Hey Roz since you enjoy his pictures so much; here is Blitz with his newest lil family member. My daughter was so impressed with Blitz she purchased a pup very much like him. This little lady has East German Mom and Dad and Blitz has East German and Czeck blood lines.

Today we have found such determination equals a situation where a Mexican Stand-off would be the easiest way to explain todays event.

My daughter took this photo of Blitz and his new little friend (Diamond) today and the photo pretty much sums up the event.

http://pruconsultants.com/mexicanstandoff.jpg

Oh! No! Diamond is so asking for permission and Blitz is so making sure that "respect" is shown.

Thanks for sharing this with us.

If Brenda were there, neither one of them would have a chance. She loves her "stuffies".....will NEVER tear them up but will watch them very carefully when anyone touches or goes them.

I can't wait until we have another Service Dog in our house to see how Brenda will handle him/her touching her babies.......I hope the new dog is not a "shredder!"

[wizard-of-roz]

I wrote a whole story about Brenda's latest adventures and it went "poof!" So, here I go again!

Brenda has had the worsed shedding season I've ever witnessed with her. Of course, she's also the first senior dog I've ever cared for by myself. Usually, it was my brother's or DH who would take over the dogs and I really never noticed the physical changes. I took her to the Vet because she was scaring me with all the hair she was losing and the color changes in her coat from a Black Lab to a Chocolate Lab, weird! She had no bald batches [thank goodness] but still she looked so strange.

The Vet said it was due to hormonal changes and that she should be treated with oatmeal and lubicrating baths. So, off to the groomer we went. He wants me to watch for any skin irritation or other changes before he does any invasive blood work......I agree.

She had her "beauty treatment" and, what a different dog. Her fur still looks multicolored with some grey/yellow/brown mixed in with her black fur but it looks so more healthy than it did. I just have to get used to the multi-colored Lab I now have.

We also made the big decision for Brenda's "pre-need" plans. [I can't even say the words.] There's a wonderful organization out here called S.O.P.H.I.E. Inc. They have a cemetary and do their own cremations. It's located in a really lovely area called Calabasas. It's surrounded by rolling hills and on acres of land. I know it's hard to talk about but I have to have a plan in place so that Brenda is given the respect that she so well deserves.

If you want to know more information about S.O.P.H.I.E. I'll be happy to answer all your questions. All I know is that I'm more prepared and feel a better sense of ease for "that" day. Not that when "it" does happen I won't become unhinged, I just won't have to worry as much, as business is taken care of!

[wizard-of-roz]

To ALL our dear friends and colleagues who live in or who have family and friends in Missouri, especially Joplin.....Please know that our hearts are with you and we wish you safe and more pleasant days ahead.

Much Concern and Love,
Roz

[guitarest]

I wrote a whole story about Brenda's latest adventures and it went "poof!" So, here I go again!

We also made the big decision for Brenda's "pre-need" plans. [I can't even say the words.] There's a wonderful organization out here called S.O.P.H.I.E. Inc. They have a cemetary and do their own cremations. It's located in a really lovely area called Calabasas. It's surrounded by rolling hills and on acres of land. I know it's hard to talk about but I have to have a plan in place so that Brenda is given the respect that she so well deserves.

If you want to know more information about S.O.P.H.I.E. I'll be happy to answer all your questions. All I know is that I'm more prepared and feel a better sense of ease for "that" day. Not that when "it" does happen I won't become unhinged, I just won't have to worry as much, as business is taken care of!



Roz: I am one of the biggest arsholes around and I will openly say so when it comes to being cold hearted and just not letting emotions get the best of me. Although when King passed away it was the first time in decades that this 48 year old Gulf War Veteran actually cried; and for days I was so depressed. King did not need to pass so early (8 years old) and it was a mis-diagnosis by a vet that caused his death. King was a product of a puppy mill so he had health issues and when we moved to a new location we went to a new vet made a few mistakes that caused more health issues for him. He went from almost 100lbs to 55lbs then I had enough with that vet and the new vet got it right and King started gaining weight again. He got up to 73lbs before his body shut down and King passed in my arms. I cried like a baby, and even now I am getting emotional.

One thing for sure Roz you pup will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge like King is waiting for me.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

http://pruconsultants.com/king2010.jpg

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz: I am one of the biggest arsholes around and I will openly say so when it comes to being cold hearted and just not letting emotions get the best of me. Although when King passed away it was the first time in decades that this 48 year old Gulf War Veteran actually cried; and for days I was so depressed. King did not need to pass so early (8 years old) and it was a mis-diagnosis by a vet that caused his death. King was a product of a puppy mill so he had health issues and when we moved to a new location we went to a new vet made a few mistakes that caused more health issues for him. He went from almost 100lbs to 55lbs then I had enough with that vet and the new vet got it right and King started gaining weight again. He got up to 73lbs before his body shut down and King passed in my arms. I cried like a baby, and even now I am getting emotional.

One thing for sure Roz you pup will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge like King is waiting for me.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

http://pruconsultants.com/king2010.jpg

I can hardly get through that poem.....What a beautiful picture. Sorry for the morbid subject.

On the news last night a woman was talking about her brother in Joplin, Missouri who would not get into the tub for safety [during the tornedo], instead went looking for his beloved dog. Well, both the man and his dog perished.........I can't even begin to imagine how many pets were lost that day.

Okay, okay, different subject; let's talk about how Brenda did a complete summersault [sp.] on the grass outside, trying to catch a ball and scared me half-to-death, but she did look amazing as she was flying through the air.

[guitarest]

Roz this is the closest I could find to Blitz in the air playing catch. Ya gotta start posting pictures also...

http://pruconsultants.com/blitzair.JPG

[S.S. Cruisers]

mornin' all:

Roz: You tell Ms. Brenny to stop scaing Mommy! I bet she went, "Whew, didn't see that coming! But what a ride!" :D

[wizard-of-roz]

mornin' all:

Roz: You tell Ms. Brenny to stop scaing Mommy! I bet she went, "Whew, didn't see that coming! But what a ride!" :D


Thank goodness it was all grass.....so, when she tumbled down she had a pretty soft landing. It scares me because you hear so many stories about dogs breaking or dislocating something......I think I'll take it a bit easier on my throws!!!! :p

[wizard-of-roz]

Roz this is the closest I could find to Blitz in the air playing catch. Ya gotta start posting pictures also...

http://pruconsultants.com/blitzair.JPG


I have so many wonderful pictures of Miss "B" and you're right I need to take the time to show her off more.

I will definitely take the time when things slow down and show my girl off!!!! Until then, keep those pictures coming, I love them.

[S.S. Cruisers]

I saw a big yellow Renie boy riding in the car with his mom, with his big ole head hanging out the back window! He was almost as big as the car! Miss my boy.